The Chatham Voice, April 18, 2024

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PAGE 2

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

News

Tiny cabin site picked in Chatham

ports to those in need.

Dubbed the Emergency Transitional Cabin Program, the project will be located on a vacant 0.83Chatham-Kent council acre property owned by the municipally at the intersection of Park Street and Hyslop Street in Chatham.

The site is directly north of the Pet and Wildlife Rescue property and will include a communal building for washrooms and a kitchen, as well as the individual cabins.

Next steps for the shelter project include conChatham-Kent Health Alliance is governed by a volunteer, skills-based board of directors, which is sulting. with responsible for setting policy, establishing strategic direction and monitoring organizational performance. neighbours so Chatham-Kent Health Alliance is seeking individuals with skills and experience in the areas of: the municipality • Board & Governance Expertise • Ethics can best accom• Construction & Project Management • Stakeholder Engagement modate their • Patient & Health Care Advisory • Legal Expertise needs moving • Business Management • Clinical Experience forward.

• Quality & Patient Safety Management • Health Care Administration & Policy “With council’s • Finance • Strategic Planning approval, mu• Government/Government Relations/Labour Relations • Information Technology nicipal staff will • Knowledge & Experience in Research be launching Chatham-Kent Health Alliance is firmly committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and to ensuring there is this important representation from the communities we serve. Chatham-Kent Health Alliance promotes a climate that housing prowelcomes, understands, and respects the diversity of our patients, families, staff, volunteers, directors, and gram as quickcommunity partners. ly as possible,” Applicants are invited to bring their skills, experience and enthusiasm necessary to serve on our Board of said Josh Myers, Directors via this online application. Please send CV or resume directly to Annette Zimmer, Executive C-K’s director of Assistant, Governance Coordinator at BoardRecruitment@ckha.on.ca. We will make the necessary housing services. accommodations for applicants to support all aspects of the recruitment process. Please notify the “This program governance coordinator at BoardRecruitment@ckha.on.ca if you require assistance with any will give C-K accommodations. All applications will be acknowledged, held in confidence, and kept on file for future residents who consideration. are experiencing homelessness, Application form and information at the opportuniwww.ckha.on.ca/governance/recruitment ty to heal, learn new skills and be APPLICATIONS DUE BY May 3, 2024 connected with other supports

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

has paved the way for a new 50-cabin, tiny-home emergency shelter complex.

At the April 8 meeting,

council passed a number of recommendations connected to the development, with a focus on providing community sup-

Presenter Name

that are needed to change their future. The first thing we need to do is we need to listen.”

According to an administrative report, more than 25 municipally owned sites were considered in an “exhaustive search,” with the decision based in part on the location not being adjacent to an elementary school, splash pad or wading pool or licensed daycare centre.

The site is also close to a convenience store, bus stop and within a kilometre and and a half from a laundromat, Outreach for Hunger, ROCK Missions and Hope Haven. The complex will also have 24/7 security.

Next steps approved by council entail pre-site development work; hiring a project manager to assist with the cabin project which includes working on other affordable housing initiatives, as well as issuing requests for proposal for both construction and security services.

Council has also entered into agreements with ROCK Missions, Canadian Mental Health Association Lambton-Kent and Hope Haven to provide support and housing outreach services. A Chatham-Kent Legal Clinic housing stability worker will be hired as well.

The contract at Victoria Park Place on Murray Street ends in May 2025.

Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew said that while the cabin project won’t reach everyone – particularly those who don’t trust government – “Most people

are supportive,” Crew said, including neighbours of the new site.

“They understand transitional housing. When people are down and out, we usually don’t count them out,” Crew said. “We try to help them out.”

She said that while nobody wants shelters, homelessness is a reality the municipality must deal with.

“Human issues are very expensive issues,” she told council.

Chatham Coun. Alysson Storey said the municipality cannot afford to “wait any longer” on the issue, noting the voices of the most vulnerable need to be heard.

Mayor Darrin Canniff said the cabin plan is a great step forward.

“This is progress; this is Chatham-Kent looking to implement a progressive solution to a very difficult issue,” he said, calling housing a “fundamental need.”

The transitional cabin project caps off a tumultuous period that saw C-K’s homelessness crisis deepen as a result of the pandemic. Council has recognized that the need for emergency shelter continues to mount and as a result directed municipal staff to come up with a plan for the future.

Since Chatham-Kent started providing shelter services two and a half years ago, 491 people have accessed the services, with 28,072 overnight bed visits provided, the report said.

Continued on page 3 Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9:15am - 3:30pm

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THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

PAGE 3

News

Mayor reiterates support against York1

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Mayor Darrin Canniff has reaffirmed Chatham-Kent’s commitment to the battle against the York1 landfill expansion at Dresden.

“We, together as Chatham-Kent, will fight this until this is no longer an issue and it’s done,” Canniff told the crowd gathered at the second public meeting put on by Dresden Citizens Against Reckless Environmental Disposal (CARED). “It’s not going to happen.”

The comment was met with loud applause from around 100 people who attended the session at the Ken Houston Memorial Agricultural Centre April 11.

“I expect Dresden to step up in the way they have, as they do in every other thing, good or bad,” the mayor said, adding his thanks to Dresden CARED and the community.

“I want to thank you for what you’re doing here,” Canniff said. “The key is understanding

the facts and getting together.

We want all of Chatham-Kent fighting with you.”

Canniff said he has sent a text to Doug Ford communicating C-K’s opposition, and has also spoken with Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks Andrea Khanjin to let her know the York1 landfill project is unwanted.

According to Canniff, the municipality has hired a “highend” lawyer to deal with the issue and it isn’t going to be cheap.

“Council is behind you and we’re not going to be restricted by funds,” he said. “Make sure you get everyone you know to make submissions. It’s critical that we get an environmental assessment.”

The mayor’s comments are the latest salvo to be fired in the battle against GTA-based York1 Environmental Waste Solutions’ bid to revive and expand an old landfill on Irish School Road just a kilometre north of town. The company wants to build a regenerative recycling waste facility to repurpose

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Housing for the homeless

Continued from page 2

A total of 162 people have secured permanent housing following their shelter stay.

Council heard that folks staying at the cabin site must sign a participation agreement, whereby they agree to co-operate with a community worker to set goals which ultimately will lead them to permanent housing. If they don’t want to follow the plan, they will have to leave.

“Our goal is to end homelessness as quickly as we can,” Myers said, noting that making services more available helps alleviate difficult problems such as homeless encampments.

He emphasized that the new development is designed to provide transitional housing, not to build a permanent community.

Two deputations were presented to council at the meet-

ing.

PAWR operations manager Myriam Armstrong told council PAWR staff are stressed about security concerns, adding the location of the tiny cabin development is a “poor choice.”

ROCK Missions executive director Renee Geniole also spoke on the issue, saying the entirety of ROCK Missions is excited about the tiny cabin plan.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

Music fest rebounds postpandemic

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

The 78th edition of the Chatham Kiwanis Music Festival has ended on a high note.

The popular competition, that sees youth up to the age of 19 put on their best musical and vocal performances, has rebounded from the pandemic with more than 300 performers registered in this year’s event.

According to festival co-chair Julie Collins, an instrumental choir category was added back in for 2024.

Other categories included musical mainstays such as piano, strings, a number of vocal categories and musical theatre.

“We have stabilized our numbers,” Collins said on the final day of the competition, adding a significant number of performers from the Windsor area travelled to compete in Chatham.

The accomplishment is significant. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the event’s cancellation. The festival was held virtually in 2021 and 2022 before returning to live performances last year.

Adjudicators for this year’s festival included Linda Fletcher (vocal); Jennifer Smele (ju-

nior piano); Lance Ouellette (strings); Marion Abbott (musical theatre and speech arts) as well as Chatham native Benjamin Smith, also an adjudicator, in the junior piano category.

Now that the festival has concluded, organizers are gearing up for the Grand Concert April 29 at the Kiwanis Theatre. The evening will also see awards, trophies, plaques and scholarships handed out to deserving performers.

“It’s a really nice night,” Collins said. “We try to pick from all of the categories so they are all well represented.”

The Grand Concert begins at 7

PAGE 5

News

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

The 78th Kiwanis Chatham Kiwanis Music Festival is one for the books, and plans for the April 29 Grand Concert are underway. The event saw some 300 youth perform in a variety of categories including strings, vocals, musical theatre, speech arts, piano and instrumental band. Here, violinists Zoe Thompson and Henry and Hayden Hill showcase their talents on the festival’s final day at Holy Trinity/St. Paul’s Anglican Church.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 6

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

Opinion Our two cents We offer up a bit of food for thought this week on several topics.

• Chatham-Kent’s tiny cabins for the homeless Well, this is one topic where everyone knows such an effort is needed, but no one wants it in their backyard.

Talk to people in the downtown core or in the Tecumseh Park neighbourhood and you will hear about issues of mental health, intoxication by drug and/or alcohol being all too regular and problematic.

And since local police executives seem allergic to the idea of having officers walk the beat in the downtown, it is truly better that the future shelter complex will be located further away from Chatham’s core.

The site is still located close enough to needed amenities for the people who make use of the tiny cabins that they can reach them with relative ease.

In short, the site seems to be the best option.

To the municipality’s credit, it’s personnel looked at more than two-dozen options.

• What to do if he wins With East Kent Coun. Steve Pinson-

neault seeking a seat at Queen’s Park for the Progressive Conservatives, there is a very, very real chance he will win.

Questionable decisions Premier Doug Ford has made since his re-election don’t matter much.

A look back to the McGuinty-Wynn years likely scares enough votes Pinsonneault’s way, coinciding with the traditional Conservative support in this region. No one should be surprised that come May 3 there is an open seat on municipal council.

There are options for filling the vacancy, but the simplest, smartest and least expensive move, should Pinsonneault win, would be to appoint the person who placed third in East Kent in the last election. That would be Morena McDonald, who would bring more youth to council chambers.

Not a bad option at all.

• At the back of the bus?

OK, is it just us, or is it just wrong that the likeness of two famous abolitionist and Black citizens, Mary Ann Shadd and Josiah Henson, are represented at the back of the new decorated transit bus? It was vital that they were included on the moving mural, but surely the location could have been improved.

Our letters to the editor policy The Chatham Voice welcomes letters to the editor. Our preferred method to receive letters is via e-mail to bruce@ chathamvoice.com (use “Letter” in the subject line).

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71 Sass Rd., Unit #4, Chatham, ON, N7M 5J4 Tel: 519-397-2020

Shelter housing ‘dumped’ onto Chatham’s east side Editor: This is in response to council’s decision to build the 50-unit shelter for displaced persons on Chatham’s east side. Yay! Once again, without any input from residents. Than again, it’s just the east side, right

Mr. Mayor?

Thanks for the headache on our doorsteps and right next to Henry Weaver Park, where children play.

Darrin Caniff you should be ashamed of

yourself, but it’ll be a great photo-op, huh?

Thanks, mayor, and thanks, council. This is just what we needed.

Al Laforet Chatham

Fire hall relocation needed Editor’s note: This letter was sent to the mayor and council in mid-January, nearly three months ago. Of the 18 elected officials who could have contacted the writer, only one did.

I appreciate the opportunity to express my thoughts re: the proposal to purchase the former Sears portion of the Downtown Chatham Centre.

The area now being considered pales in comparison to that which was initially offered. I don’t

think it should be considered.

Let’s suppose: • We close the fire hall at the Civic Centre and move it to an overcrowded EMS facility, which was originally designed to accommodate both ambulances and fire trucks. Fire trucks located there would provide fire protection for those of us south of the CP rail line in Chatham.

Should a 200-car train be passing through, or there

be an accident/fatality – that means going west to Bloomfield Road or east to Communication Road for hours, and we in the south are essentially cut off.

• Moving the fire hall would provide space – as may be required – for some of the renovations for the Civic Centre.

After that, it could be the ground-level space for the museum relocation.

Continued on page 7

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

PAGE 7

News

CKHA 50/50 raffle returns The Chatham Voice

The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF) has lit its proverbial fundraising torch once again.

The Igniting Healthcare 50/50 Fundraiser is back, with more prizes to be won than ever before.

The Foundation’s first ever Spring 50/50 launched on April 2, with one lucky winner set to take home the grand prize jackpot on May 3.

Proceeds from the Spring 50/50 will be designated towards the highest priority needs at CKHA, allowing the foundation to continue to invest in life-changing equipment and facility upgrades in its local hospital sites.

“In our current health-care landscape, the greatest needs and priorities of our hospital are always changing, which makes it so important for our foundation to remain responsive and adaptable in our commitment to meet these evolving needs,” Christine Mitchell, CKHAF president and CEO, said in a media release.

Tickets can be purchased online now at www.ignite5050.ca. In person ticket sales will also be available at the CKHAF office (9 Ursuline Ave, Chatham), Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Tickets can only be purchased by Ontario residents over 18 years of age.

For more information, visit www. ignite5050.ca.

Move fire hall Continued from page 6

• If we relocate the fire station on Sandy Street, we could do so to provide space for some of the EMS vehicles, as well as the fire trucks.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 8

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

News

Rise House still operational in strife-torn Haiti

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

You can hear the emotion in Emily Caron’s voice when talking about what is transpiring nearly 2,800 kilometres away.

Caron, formerly Emily Hime, heads Rise House, which runs a home just outside Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital.

Haiti has been in turmoil since early March. Gangs went on the rampage when then-Prime Min-

ister Ariel Henry, was out of the country. The gangs blocked his return and forced him to give up his power.

“It’s pretty scary right now. The gangs have pretty much overtaken the country,” Caron said. “Our kids have missed a lot of school this year.”

The airport in Port-au-Prince and the port are blocked, preventing needed food fom reaching the masses. An estimated 40 per cent of the population doesn’t have Contributed image

The children of Rise House in Haiti are seen here, but their future is unknown given the extreme turmoil in the country. Rise House founder Emily Caron of Chatham is trying to keep funding flowing to keep the kids fed and the home running.

myliferetirement.ca

enough to eat. charity.

Furthermore, there has That transitioned into Rise been rampant unrest since House in 2019, as Hime 2021, when Jovenel Moise, shared the responsibilities who was the president at the with a board of volunteers. time, was murdered in his In terms of fundraising, residence.

Caron said it’s been a chal“It’s been difficult the last lenge to keep the cash flowcouple of years, just due to ing to the home. the violence,” Caron said. “I “A lot of it is due to the fact haven’t been able to go back I’m not down there. When I down there. Inflation is bad was down there, I was conthere as well. stantly taking It’s costing “It’s pretty scary right photos and more to buy now. The gangs have posting upfood, buy pretty much overtaken the dates,” she gas, buy all country. “Our kids have said, and that the things we was helping need to run missed a lot of school this to keep peoyear.” the place.” ple in ChaThe home, - Emily Caron tham-Kent which she and beyond said was downsized last updated on how the home year, is host to a couple of was doing. families, children and staff.

“We’re trying to hang on Currently, there are about 14 through all the turmoil,” people living in the home.

Caron said. “I’m still in conCaron has had a passion tact with our staff.” for helping children in HaiBut Caron doesn’t want to ti since 2011 when she first utilize social media to post visited the Caribbean coun- images of the home or the try. She wound up moving children right now, out of down there in 2012 and took fear the gangs will see an opover a children’s home, es- portunity. tablishing the Hime for Help “I know a lot of organiza-

tions are targetted just because they (the gangs) assume there’s money there,” she said.

Caron, despite the struggle, does not want to close down the house.

“We don’t want to just abandon our projects down there. I know a lot of other organizations are pulling out because of the violence and corruption down there,” she said. “I have an emotional connection to Haiti, to these kids and to our staff. I feel like we owe it to them to pull through the tough times.”

To help keep the funds flowing, Rise House continues to run trivia nights at Sons of Kent Brewery once a month. As well, Rockathon, another fundraiser for Rise House, returns May 4 to the beer hall.

“We have a bunch of local bands that will be playing at Sons of Kent all day. It’s a really fun day,” Caron said.

“Entry is by donation. We usually have a really good turnout.”

There will also be a silent auction that day as well.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

PAGE 9

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THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

News

Number of homes for sale on the rise The Chatham Voice

Home sales in March mirrored those of the same month one year ago.

This past month, 106 homes changed hands, according to the Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors (CKAR).

However, that number sits nearly 17 per cent below the five-year average and almost 10 per cent below the 10-year average for sales in the month of March in Chatham-Kent.

Despite that fact, so far this year, the first three months have seen 258 units change hands. That’s actually up more than 13 per cent from the same period a year ago.

Carrie Patrick, president of CKAR, said the market is getting stronger as warmer – and busier – months approach.

“Although home sales and new listings were flat on a year-over-year basis, both of these measures are showing a steady im-

provement on a monthly basis and continue to strengthen heading into what is traditionally the busiest time of the year,” she said in a media release.

The average price of homes sold in March 2024 was $407,197, a dip of two per cent from March 2023.

Looking at sales from the first three months of the year, the average price sat at $406,275, also a drop of about two per cent from the first three months of 2023.

People listed 225 homes for sale in March. That number is 16 per cent above the five-year average and more than 24 per cent above the 10-year average for the month of March.

“Overall supply levels are at historical norms and still rising as sellers

eagerly continue to list their homes in anticipation of what now feels like the long-awaited return of demand,” Patrick said.

“Once buyers decide to return to the market, they will find that ample choice awaits them, and we will likely see a period of modest price growth as this

inventory is gradually absorbed.”

Active residential listings numbered 388 units on the market at the end of March, up by 9.6 per cent from the end of March 2023. Active listings haven’t been this high in the month of March in more than five years.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

News

Pinsonneault on leave from council

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

East Kent Coun. Steve Pinsonneault is taking a temporary leave of absence from C-K council as he campaigns to become a member of provincial parliament.

According to a letter submitted to council recently, Pinsonneault said his four-week unpaid leave will allow him to focus on becoming Lambton-Kent-Middlesex’s next MPP in the upcoming May 2 by-election.

“I realize that I don’t have to take a leave of absence under the municipal rules, however, I intend to put my full attention to the election process and don’t feel that Chatham-Kent taxpayers should pay for my time away,” Pinsonneault’s statement said.

The by-election will see a total of seven candidates face off to fill the seat left vacant by long-time MPP Monte McNaughton who stepped

away from politics last fall.

Pinsonneault, a Ward 3 Chatham-Kent councillor for the past 17 years, was named as the Progressive Conservation candidate in January.

It’s not yet clear how the municipality will fill Pinsonneault’s seat on council if he is elected. A by-election could be called, or the person next in line from the 2022 election could step forward, meaning Morena McDonald would become a Ward 3 councillor.

Currently, there are nine female councillors and nine male councillors on council, as well as Mayor Darrin Canniff. If McDonald fills Pinsonneault’s empty chair, it means that female councillors will outnumber male councillors – 10 to eight – for the first time in the municipality’s history.

According to the municipal clerk’s office, both options will be presented to council at the May 13 council meeting if Pinsonneault is successful.

Leaf and yard waste programs could change The Chatham Voice

Changes are being proposed for Chatham-Kent leaf and yard waste collection programs and the municipality is seeking the public’s input.

One of the changes for consideration is transitioning from a clear bag to a paper one for waste pickup in mandated communities. The shift aims to reduce environmental impact by minimizing plastic waste and to promote sustainability through the use of biodegradable materials.

As well, the municipality is look-

ing at closing the Tilbury Leaf & Yard Depot. According to a media release from the municipality, operating challenges associated with this site have prompted the recommendation.

Tilbury residents currently benefit from weekly brush, grass and leaf pick-up services at the curb during spring, summer and fall months.

However, “mounting operational pressures and costs” have led to possible closure.

Residents are invited to participate in a brief three-question survey to provide insights on the possible changes.

PAGE 11

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 12

News

Mobile stage unveiled

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Chatham-Kent’s Mainstreet Stage is ready to rock.

The imposing $260,000 mobile stage – the flatbed base is towed by a truck – was unveiled to an enthusiastic crowd at the J.D. Bradley Centre April 9.

Mayor Darrin Canniff credited CAO Michael Duben with the idea of procuring such a stage.

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

“He’s the one who said we should have this,” Canniff told the gathering, adding that when the municipality called on Mainstreet Credit Union with the proposal the organization jumped on board.

“For a really inexpensive price, we’re able to create a whole other level of professionalism in Chatham-Kent,” Canniff said, noting Mainstreet has been an “amazing partner.”

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Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff, Mainstreet Credit Union president and CEO Chris Inniss and municipal CAO Michael Duben show off the new $260,000 portable stage now available to rent. Equipped with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, the stage can quickly be assembled and taken down. Mainstreet donated $100,000 for the asset with the remainder coming from Hydro One’s Community Fund.

ing, our population is growing,” Canniff noted, adding it is “a great piece of the puzzle” and will be another reason to take notice of what’s happening in C-K. Duben, who worked for the City of Windsor earlier in his career, said he

saw the addition of a portable stage there 20 years ago and it made a big difference to events.

Upon arriving in C-K around 20 months ago, Duben said he attended a No Child Left Behind event in Wallaceburg.

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barely be seen and heard, he said.

“It was such a great event and I thought, ‘You know what, we need one of these,’” he said.

“Chatham-Kent deserves this,” Duben added. “I’m looking forward to seeing all of our events.”

The stage, equipped with state-of-the-art lighting and sound system, can be set up in an hour and taken down in an hour. Several public works employees are trained in putting it up and tearing it down.

Mainstreet Credit Union has contributed $100,000 to the project, with the remainder coming from the Hydro One Community Fund. There is zero cost to the taxpayer.

According to Mainstreet president and CEO Chris

Inniss, funding community initiatives is part of the credit union’s mandate.

“Community events are a key piece of what Mainstreet is involved in and we’re really, really excited for this stage opportunity,” Inniss said. “I think that the public-private partnerships we are trying to build are a great idea.”

The stage’s first booked event is the Special Olympics games in June.

Fees to rent the stage are $816 for the first day for non-profits and $405 for each additional day.

For private and for-profit events, the cost is $960, with a $450 fee for each subsequent day. Anyone wishing to inquire about renting the stage can contact ckspecialevents@ chatham-kent.ca.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

PAGE 13

News

Gala delivers fun and funds

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

The taste buds remained dazzled days after the Gala for the Kids event.

The gala, which took place at the Chatham Armoury, saw about 150 people attend, and raised more than $200,000 for the Foundation of the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent.

Mike Genge, president of the foundation, said the night was a “fantastic” hit with guests.

“What a night. It was one of those nights where everything just went perfect,” Genge said of the masquerade ball-themed event.

“Everybody dressed up and everybody had masks on.”

He credited event-goers for getting into the spirit of the gala.

“They came ready to experience an event,” Genge said. “As soon as they walked in, we had an almost-circus-like act.

We had jugglers, guys on unicycles, guys balancing chairs on their heads – just all kinds of stuff.”

And then came the dinner, put on by Len and Tina Acampura. Genge

described it as an Italian Renaissance affair.

With people opting to consume less alcohol these days, Genge said the event featured a mocktail bar that was also a hit.

No foundation event is complete without a live and silent auction, which helped gather the funds raised. Genge said the live auction, featuring trips to Burgundy, Italy, Florida and Las Vegas, raised almost $90,000 on its own.

The evening also included dancing to a DJ and a midnight buffet, for anyone who wanted a succulent snack.

Genge said the gala would not be possible without the help of supporting businesses.

“It’s just incredible the support we get every year from our sponsors. They step up every year. They are just great people,” he said. “I have a lot of respect for them.”

Last year, the event raised in excess of $350,000, but $250,000 of that was attributed to a donation from local Rotarians.

In the wake of this year’s gala, Genge believes the event is gathering steam

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and interest.

The pandemic delivered a change for the foundation. The long-running and popular Festival of Giving, where upwards of 800 people gathered to party together at the Bradley Centre, had to be held virtually for several years.

What emerged from the pandemic was the gala, involving fewer participants in a more intimate setting.

The gala supports various programs and services provided by the Children’s Treatment Centre.

One in five children in Chatham-Kent access services.

Contributed image

Mike Genge, president of the Foundation of the Children’s Treatment Centre; Kevin Owen, foundation board chair; and Greg Hetherington, event auctioneer are pictured here at the start of the Gala for the Kids event, which raised more than $200,000.

The next big – and mobile – fundraiser for the

foundation is the Run for the Kids, slated for June

23 in Rondeau Provincial Park.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 14

Mobile mural bus unveiled

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Municipal officials revealed what Mayor Darrin Canniff said is the first piece of “movable art” recently – a CK Transit bus wrapped in images from around Chatham-Kent.

Impact Graphics wrapped the bus in the scenes at no cost to taxpayers. Images adorning the bus, which will operate on the route to and from St. Clair College, include identifiable buildings and people, top pastimes such as fishing, tourist attractions and events and a salute to local agriculture.

“Impact Graphics

stepped up big time. People are going to ask, ‘How much is this going to cost the taxpayers?’ Zero. Impact Graphics sponsored this wrap,” Canniff said.

“We had it designed internally, so there is no cost to doing this.”

The mayor said unveiling the bus was the final stage in a two-month process where organizers solicited feedback to try to ensure all municipal wards were featured on the bus.

“We wanted to just have fun with it and make it all about C-K,” he said.

Canniff said this is the first of what he hopes are many C-K buses to be adorned with images.

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

News

“We’d love to have basically the whole fleet of Chatham-Kent buses wrapped like this in some way,” he said. “I’d like to see all sorts of different themes.”

Canniff said he will encourage the public to provide input into future themes and work with local media to determine what people would like to see.

“We then start finding champions to run with it and finding sponsors that are willing to step up, add their name and pay for it,” he said.

Why stop at transit buses? Canniff sees other municipal vehicles getting

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff, right, and Impact Graphics’ Dustyn Lachine hop aboard a CK Rides bus that Impact has wrapped to showcase the rich diversity of the municipality.

treated as well.

“Buses are one thing. We want to look at a lot of other vehicles. We want to see what we can do with those as well over time,” he said.

Canniff said he believes the wrapped vehicles will create a buzz factor in several ways, brightening up people’s days.

“This is a travelling art

show. It’s part of how we beautify our community and we want to start doing a lot more of that,” he said. “This will put a smile on someone’s face.”

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

PAGE 15

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 16

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

Here are a few ways you can applaud your volunteers and celebrate National Volunteer Week: 1 - Give a shout-out to your volunteers on social media.

You can highlight individuals, teams or projects that have helped further your mission.

2 - Bring your volunteers together so they can socialize with each other.

3 - Nominate a superstar volunteer for a local or national award to formally recognize their efforts.

4 - Handmade cards from the community members you work with is a special thank you gift for volunteers. Plus, the creative time can be fun, even therapeutic, for service recipients.

5 - Start a private group on social media and invite volunteers, staff and community members to join. Set a time to gather

for a virtual party and share videos, images and stories about the impact volunteers have had.

6 - Volunteers love to see that the work they do is making a difference to the lives of others. If they are able, invite community members to write or dictate letters to the volunteers who have really made a difference in their lives.

7 - We don’t always see volunteers in action. Ask volunteers to share stories about their fellow volunteers. Are they constantly impressed by someone’s positive attitude? Have they seen a fellow volunteer diffuse a challenging situation?

Thank you to our volunteers and our community for the support through generous donations.

Please consider making a monetary or food donation.

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8 - Have a favorite coffee shop in town? Do you love to share gourmet chocolates or tasty treats from your local bakery?

Yummy gifts and gift cards don’t collect dust, and you’ll support other local businesses by giving your volunteers a sweet gift that they can enjoy with family and friends.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

PAGE 17

#NVW2024 #EveryMomentMatters Find the right volunteer opportunity for you Giving back to one’s community can provide a sense of purpose and improve an individual’s overall well-being.

Volunteerism also produces additional benefits, including boosting one’s positive perception to others.

Human resources executives attest that contributing to a nonprofit can improve leadership skills.

By understanding the value behind volunteer work — for the people or organization on the receiving end as well as the volunteer — more individuals may decide to donate their time and services.

However, finding the right volunteer opportunity may take some trial and error.

The following are some tips for finding the right fit.

• Consider skills and interests. Before choosing a volunteer opportunity, make a list of activities that you enjoy. This may help guide volunteer choices.

For example, if you like hiking, you may volunteer to clean up a local park.

• Assess your skill levels. Is there something you are particularly adept at doing?

For example, if you are a certified public accountant, you may be able to volunteer by mentoring young accounting students, or doing taxes or book

keeping tasks for the elderly or less fortunate.

• Think about commitment level. Figure out how much time you can spend volunteering. Maybe you only have the weekends or a few hours in the evenings? Understanding how much free time you have can help you choose opportunities that fit within these parameters.

• Research potential organizations. Not all nonprofit groups are created equal. Utilize resources that vet charitable groups to determine if they are trustworthy.

• Define your goals. Have goals in mind when

volunteering one day a week or month. Increase the time you spend volunteering once you’ve found the right place for you.

Volunteering can bring joy to a person’s life, especially when individuals find an inspiring opportunity.

selecting opportunities.

Defining a goal can help you maintain the motivation to volunteer and see a project through to completion.

• Start small. Wade into a volunteer opportunity slowly to see if it is the right fit. This may include

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 18

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

The Arts

UCC students to return to the stage

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

For the first time in five years, the curtain will rise on an Ursuline College Chatham musical production.

The school is presenting the popular “Matilda” - the story of a brilliant five-year-old girl who overcomes obstacles to become her best self.

The bookish youngster faces down neglectful and abusive parents, and a tyrannical notso-nice school headmistress, in a quest for justice and self-real-

ization. part in the show, with OlivProducer Jordan Matteis, said ia Gregory playing the lead as everyone involved in Matil- Matilda Wormwood. The cast da has basically “started from is comprised of 25 students, scratch,” as the Covid-19 pan- there are 25 students behind the demic spelled an end to live scenes, along with a 12-piece performance at the school. student orchestra.

“It’s been a learning curve,” Construction and visual arts said Matteis, who leads UCC’s students have assisted with guidance department. “This is set building and painting. The WHO IS working WATCHING YOUR our first production since the school has been on the pandemic and we are thrilled to production since September.

HOME WHEN YOU CAN’T? be back. It’s going to be a great Four performances of the show show. Everything else has slow- will be held in the UCC Theatre Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice WHO IS WATCHING YOUR WHO IS WATCHING YOUR IS WATCHING ly come back from Covid. This WHO at 7 p.m.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

Chatham’s T3 Tenors return

The Chatham Voice

Chatham’s trio of tenors will perform at St. Andrew’s United Church’s Saturdays at 7 event April 20.

These Three Tenors – Andrew Derynck, Xander Bechard and Colin Bell – are all natives of Chatham-Kent and are graduates of Chatham Kent Secondary School where they performed in school choirs and musicals, including Phantom

The Art

of the Opera, Wizard of Oz and Fiddler on the Roof. They pursued vocal training with local voice teachers who recognized their talent and potential. All of them have won Chatham Kiwanis Music Festival awards.

On Saturday, the tenors will present their Back in Harmony concert in the church’s sanctuary. The program will include solos, duets and trios of varied repertoire, from the Beatles to opera.

Contributed image

Andrew Derynck, Xander Bechard and Colin Bell are performing on Saturday at St. Andrew’s United Church as part of the church’s Saturdays at 7 concert series.

Director of music at St. Andrew’s, Devon Hansen, will accompany them on St. Andrew’s Yamaha concert grand piano.

A lasagna dinner will be

SHOPLocal Electric Fork Lifts

PAGE 19

served at the church at 5 p.m. before the concert. Tickets for the dinner ($25) are available at the church office.

Tickets ($30) for the concert are

available at the church office, online at www.standrewschatham.org or at the church door.

All proceeds support the music program at St. Andrew’s.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 20

Community Events Thursday, April 18, 2024: • Join us for a fun filled Jam Session 1 to 4:30pm. All are welcome to attend with a donation of $2. 4-7pm: Homemade Panzerotti + Menu available.

Merlin Legion 519-689-4884.

• 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 1:00 p.m. Everyone Welcome.

• The Chatham-Kent Quilters’ Guild meeting at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave W, Chatham.

Doors open at 6:30. Meeting starts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome to join us, but the fee for non-members will be $10 per meeting. Our membership fee is $50 per year and this entitles you to our newsletter and all of our regular meetings free of charge. You are welcome to contact us through our Facebook page or our website at www. ckquiltguild.com for more information.

Friday, April 19, 2024: • Join us for our delicious 5pc Perch or 3pc Merlickin Chicken or Combo (3pc Perch & 2pc Merlickin Chicken).Merlin Legion 519-689-4884.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00–6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are Chicken Parmesan or Fish & Chips, $13.00. Take out available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Fun Darts at 7:00pm.

Everyone Welcome • 630pm: Movie Nights with CK Pride.

Join us at Bill’s Place (48 Centre St., Chatham). More information available at ckpride.com/calendar.

• Western Line Dance Pub Night. Come join us for a night of Western fun! There will be different line dancing, snacks and prizes for best costume, cowboy hat and more! 6:30-9pm, $10 a ticket!

Call the ALC to get your ticket now!

• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St is a meat loaf dinner with potatoes, vegetable, coleslaw and a bun. Dine ins $13 and pickup $14. All meals are served at 6 PM. Everyone welcome.

Please call 519-352-8291 to order.

Saturday, April 20, 2024: • 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.

• Join us for our delicious Merlickin Chicken plus menu serving 4-7pm and Appetizers from 7-9 pm Entertainment: Karaoke Bob 7-11 pm. Merlin Legion 519-689-4884.

• The Performing Arts at St. Andrew’s United Church, 85 William Street S., Chatham presents Chatham’s Three Tenors: Back in Harmony at 7pm. Tickets $30 at the door or online at www. standrewschatham.org/tickets. For further information call 519-352-0010 or www.standrewschatham.org/music.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. There will be a meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 3:00pm-5:30pm. Entertainment by the Marquis from 4:309:30. Everyone Welcome.

• Amanda Martinez is coming to the Mary Webb Centre for the Arts in Highgate. Internationally renowned in Latin/Jazz. Canadian singer-songwriter.

Tickets are $40 in advance, $45 the day of the concert, taxes in. More info at marywebbcentre.ca. Door to hall opens at 7pm. The concert is at 8:00pm.

• Spring Fling Bazzar and Craft Sale 9.00am-2.00pm. Lots of home baking, knitted baby clothes and knitted animals, crocheted Items, Afghans, Doilies, Painted Wooden decor. Diamond art, framed paintings,Come check it out!

40 Trillium Village in the Activity Room.

• Euchre at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St. $10. Lunch available from noon to1 PM. Sunday, April 21, 2024: • 25th Anniversary Thames River Cleanup, Chatham. Rain date April 28th.

Gloves and garbage bags supplied. High school students – collect your volunteer hours! Everyone welcome; families, friends, sports teams, work groups, neighbours, church, service groups, come as a team or join one. Chance to win a canoe. To register or for more info contact: Tamara Burton, tamara. burton@corteva.com, 519-401-8242.

• Jamboree at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St. $5. Come enjoy the music from Hired Hand and dance the afternoon away.

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

Fun Stuff

Tuesday, April 23, 2024: • 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 1:00 or spend the evening playing Shuffleboard or Euchre starting at 7:00 p.m. Everyone Welcome.

• Looking for a FUN workout? Zumba is a great upbeat, latin-inspired class that improves stress levels, muscle tone, heart health, and coordination! If you are interested in an Evening Zumba class come on out on Tuesdays starting, April 23rd from 6-7pm, for $10.

CLUES ACROSS Wednesday, April 24, 2024: 1. Midway between • The Chatham Legion, corner of south and southeast William & Colborne St. Chatham open 4. For each 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for 7. Airborne (abbr.) lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Our daily spe- 10. Photographs cial is meat loaf Dinner. Come check out 11. They __ our other daily specials. We have Fun 12. It’s important in Darts at 7:00pm. Everyone Welcome. respiration (abbr.)

13. Monetary unit • Dart Night Tournament at the Merlin 15. Cool!

Legion. 519-689-4884. Special: 1lb 16. A son of Jacob Wings + 12oz Draft $10 +tax.

19. Cut off 21. Devour Thursday, April 25, 2024: • Join us for a fun filled afternoon with 23. Agent of one’s downfall the Jam Session from 1 to 4:30pm. All are welcome to attend. A donation of 24. Best 25. Network of nerves $2. From 4 to 7. Homemade Panze26. Partner to “oohs” rotti + Menu available. Merlin Legion 27. Origins 519-689-4884.

30. Sewing utensil • The Chatham Legion, corner of 34. Alias William & Colborne St. Chatham open 35. Swiss river 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.

Taking early registrations for Merlin Legion. Antique Car, Truck, Tractor & Motorcycle Show. Sunday July 21st from 10 – 3 pm. $10 so book today as you do not want to miss out on this great event that supports our veterans and our community. Call Lori at 519-476-5870 or email lori.s.parker@gmail.com.

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

HOW CAN HEALING CRYSTALS HELP YOU?

36. Greek mythological figure 41. Type of whiskey 45. Lay to rest 46. “Rule, Britannia” composer 47. Select jury 50. Feeling 54. Action regarded as morally wrong 55. Makes angry 56. Act incorrectly 57. Defensive nuclear weapon 59. Class of escort aircraft carrier 60. To what degree 61. Buzzing insect 62. The human foot 63. “The Leftovers” actress Dowd 64. A place to stay 65. Sun up in New York

CLUES DOWN 1. An involuntary muscular contraction 2. Earnest 3. Cuts out surgically 4. Can’t move 5. Baseball stat 6. British soldier 7. Traditional medicine plants 8. Political party controlled by managers 9. Hebrew prophet 13. Supporter 14. Relative biological effectiveness (abbr.)

17. Liberty Mutual mascot 18. Georgia rockers 20. A place where building is done 22. Large, deep-bodied fish 27. Clothing retailer 28. Supplement with difficulty 29. Annoy constantly 31. Founder of Babism 32. Indigenous person in parts of Asia 33. Sea eagle 37. Leave behind 38. Time of day 39. Colorless crystalline compound 40. They lay out course requirements 41. A diamond has three 42. Algerian coastal city 43. Remove cover 44. Rechristened 47. Distinctive practice 48. Defunct phone company 49. Turkish officer of high rank 51. Eliminate from the body 52. Witness 53. Soviet Socialist Republic 58. Founding Father Franklin

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THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 21

L-K-M Votes/News

Stephen Campbell, None of the Above The Chatham Voice

try that could be doing so much more if the Ontario government would only invest in their own people.

You would think since the rural people have the majority vote with the PC party, they would actually help the people that voted in this government.

Stephen Campbell What are your goals as a Member of Provincial Parliament?

Since I am with the None of the Above Party, I am an independent representative and I would like to see more referendums on issues that currently divide people. The SOGI Curriculum, the Carbon Tax, Farm Land Protection, etc. My goals are to listen to the people of LKM, and take our concerns of LKM to Queen’s Park and not be tied by party politics. Being in the None of the Above Party I can do that.

Please share some personal details about yourself.

I grew up on a farm in North Ekfrid. I played fastball in Melbourne and hockey in Strathroy and Glencoe.

I graduated from Fanshawe College with a Business Diploma and an Information Systems Diploma.

Why are you running to represent the riding of L-K-M? I am running because the old parties are not balancing the budget. They are not listening to the people of their district, and they are bringing in policies that the people do not want. They listen to their party leader instead of the people.

I would like to cut the pay of MPP’s salaries and make their salaries with a base salary and then have incentives such that they could only increase their salary if for instance they balance the budget. Then this would tie them to being responsible with the taxpayers’ money.

What are the biggest issues facing the riding?

Homelessness is now a problem in our district with people living in tents in small towns.

The provincial government needs to look into temporary shelter for these people in the winter.

The Dresden dump is a problem and any dump from Toronto should not be with in a close vicinity to our towns. Petrolia, Watford and other dumps should have never happened. They now vent the methane gas and there is no way these should even be allowed to be close to a population base.

Continued on page 22 Toronto needs to recycle and deal with their problem, not dump it on rural Ontario.

There are many more issues that need addressing like the lack of grain mills in our area, forcing farmers to drive greater distances to get their grain to a mill.

Do you feel rural Ontario is getting overlooked? If elected, what if any steps will you take to remedy that?

Recently, Doug Ford said he would have a referendum on the Carbon Tax. Six Conservative MPPs have left their positions. This would have been a perfect time to have a referendum on the Carbon Tax as people go to the polls to vote. Yet they have let us down again.

If I cannot get referendums to take place, I would have random polls in the district so that I would be representing individuals and not a party.

In 2022, the whole agriculture and agri-food system employed 2.3 mil134 Inshes Ave., Chatham • 519-354-3990 lion people. It provided one-in-nine www.chathamopp.com jobs in Canada. The Ontario government is overlooking a key indusSales • Service • Parts

Large Selection of Toro Push Mowers

Rodeo in the sky

Mark Benoit/Special to The Chatham Voice

St. Clair College recently held its ninth annual Powerline Rodeo. Students competed in 10 events over two days.

Please join us for our ‘Being Prepared Made Simple’ seminar.

At this FREE informative seminar, you’ll learn about: • Probate and Estate Information Return • Taxation on death • Joint ownership issues and the restraints on preparing a will • Being prepared for an unexpected death while travelling • Saving money through an Eligible Funeral Arrangement • Ensuring your wishes are understood and carried out

Free Pizza & Planning Ahead ‘a great combo’ Guest Speakers Jeff Mardling

Preplanning Funeral Director McKinlay Funeral Home

Paul D. Watson Principal Lawyer Paul D Watson Law Office

Enjoy free pizza on us!

Wednesday, April 24, 2024 • 5:00pm McKinlay Reception Centre, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham, ON Please RSVP Call: 519-674-3141 or contact@mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

Trust the Professionals.

459 St. Clair St., Chatham - 519-351-2040 76 Main St. E., Ridgetown - 519-674-3141 141 Park St., Blenheim - 519-676-3451

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 22

William “Bill” Teslak 61, Thursday, April 9, 2024 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home Ann Pickering 86, Thursday, April 4, 2024 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home Pat Crone 69, Thursday, April 4, 2024 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home Gloria Ripley 80, Saturday, April 6, 2024 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home Melvyn Broughton 85, Tuesday, April 9, 2024 Blenheim Community Funeral Home David Langstaff 80, Wednesday, April 10, 2024 Blenheim Community Funeral Home Mark Warring 72, Saturday, April 6, 2024 Kendrick Funeral Home Lois Bachynski 85, Monday, April 8, 2024 Kendrick Funeral Home George Janssens 84, Thursday, April 4, 2024 Alexander & Houle Funeral Home June Marie Herbison 98, Friday, April 5, 2024 Badder Funeral Homes George Douglas McGuire 90, Tuesday, April 9, 2024 Badder Funeral Homes Abbie Louise Northcott 93, Tuesday, April 9, 2024 Badder Funeral Homes Shirley Cammile Louise Fraser 88, Friday, April 5, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home Fred Bateman 68, Thursday, March 28, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home Generations of Families Continue To Place Their Trust With Us

Funerals and Cremations

Jack Powell 96, Friday, April 5, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home Florence Boggs 84, Monday, April 8, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home Wallace Hynes 77, Friday, April 5, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home Robert “Bob” Bromley 73, Saturday, April 6, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home Karla Ertel 77, Tuesday, April 9, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home Ray Roy 60, Wednesday, April 3, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home Margaret Farmer 89, Thursday, April 11, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home Ronald Bellefleur 71, Sunday, April 7, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home Marko Prole 74, Thursday, April 4, 2024 Life Transitions Linda Benn (Keller) 75, Thursday, April 4, 2024 Life Transitions Zora Lauc 91, Tuesday, April 9, 2024 Life Transitions Mary “Ruth” Lauzon Monday, April 8, 2024 Life Transitions Alan Baart 65, Monday, April 1, 2024 Nicholls Funeral Home See full obituaries at chathamvoice.com/obituaries

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

Business/News

Kong Barbell opens The Chatham Voice

Kong Barbell is doing some heavy lifting on Riverview Drive.

The powerlifting gym recently opened and offers a variety of training.

Gym owner Kaiden Bushy said he opened the facility because, as a lifter himself, he saw a dearth of powerlifting gyms in the province.

“I thought, ‘Why does Chatham not have this?’ We have big, strong farmers all over the place, so why not have a strength gym,” he said in a media release.

The gym operates 24 hours a day to accommodate everyone’s schedules. However, not every hour is supervised.

Check kongbarbell.ca for details.

“This gym was designed to be comfortable, friendly, inviting, and the main focus is to have a team of like-minded people that share the same

interests. From beginner to professional, we have it all covered here,” Bushey said.

Public school board, teachers reach deal

Recently, the Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) and the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF) District 10 reached a local tentative agreement.

The agreement is subject to ratification by both parties.

Details will be available following ratification.

“We are very pleased to reach this tentative agreement with OSSTF,” said Chair Randy Campbell in a media release. “The ongoing commitment that our OSSTF staff have towards supporting student achievement and well-being is recognized and so greatly appreciated.”

Recognition for Abraham Orthodontics

After many years of serving

families in Windsor-Essex from Leamington, Abraham Orthodontics expanded their services into Chatham-Kent.

A ribbon cutting was recently celebrated with Mayor Darrin Caniff and the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce.

Dr. Maxwell Abraham is also an award winner for Young Entrepreneur and Young Business Individual for the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce business excellence awards.

“Our team went above and beyond to deliver the heavy task of transitioning to two locations, growing our team, and still exceeding the experience families have expected from us since day 1,” Abraham said in a media release.

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

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lifetransitions.ca • 519-351-4444 Contributed image

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459 St.Clair St., Chatham • 519-351-2040 76 Main St. E., Ridgetown • 519-674-3141 141 Park St., Blenheim • 519-676-3451

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Members of Holy Trinity/St Paul’s Anglican Church in Chatham took part in a Lenten outreach where monies were collected to help support the Adopt a Senior outreach through FreeHelpCK. People of all ages joined together to help FreeHelpCK continue its mission to feed seniors in our community who are in need. From left are FreeHelpCK’s Dave Tull, Holy Trinity/St. Paul’s Heather Kingham, FreeHelpCK’s Renee Grogan, Chris Ladd and Geri Ann Hughson.

Stephen Campbell, None of the Above

Continued from page 21

I also have my CANSail Level 1 and 2 from the Fanshawe Yacht Club and Sailing School.

Currently, I help with the South Middlesex Men’s Fastball League and run a men’s fastball team out of Delaware.

I am on the Melbourne Agricultural Societies board as a vice president. Also, I run an event called the Melbourne Tractor Fest.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

Classifieds

In Memoriam Obituary

Joseph “Joey” Wheeler July 10, 1967 - April 11, 2019

Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our mother

June Herbison (nee Bradley)

Always In Our Hearts Your loving family

Coming Events

GOLD SILVER

ALL COINS 57 Years of Satisfied Customers

April 17

9am-4pm

Active Lifestyle Centre 20 Merritt Ave., Chatham

formerly of Thamesville, on Friday, April 5, 2024 in her 99th year. Born in Detroit, Michigan, daughter of the Late Harold and Alma Bradley. June owned and operated the Schmid Jewellery Store in Thamesville for many years. She was a lifelong member of the St. James’ Presbyterian Church in Thamesville. Beloved wife of the Late Archie Herbison (1994). Loving mother of Pam and Jack Krause of Windsor, Kathy and Terry Langridge of Blenheim, and Tom and Patricia Herbison of London.

Sadly missed by her 6 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Interment Mayhew-Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Thamesville. If desired, donations to the Crohn’s and Colitis Canada (c/o 439 University Ave suite 2110, Toronto, ON M5G 1Y8) or the Kidney Foundation of Canada (c/o https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/ Make-a-Gift/In-Memory-Tribute-Donations) would be appreciated. Online condolences and donations may be left at www.badder funeralhome.com. The family would like to extend their appreciation and gratitude to the 5th floor W. staff at Riverview Gardens for their kindness, care, and compassion given to mom during her brief stay.

Auctions & Appraisals

Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed

519-818-1805

For Sale

Help Wanted

Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements.

Everyday/ Holidays.

Ready-to-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-354-3411

Help Wanted to wash walls & ceilings with my wall washer on a pole for $15/hr cash.

Smoker, should be tall. Call 519-3601982.

Looking For

Looking for someone 50 years plus to talk to on phone between 10pm and 5am. Please call 519-360-1982.

PFC and ASSOCIATES

ESTATE APPRAISERS 50 years experience

We offer a tag service or live auction

Free Appraisals of 3 items at the Sarnia Flea Market

Lessons

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Call John at 519-252-6953 - 24 hours or email john@unimorcapital.com UNIMOR CAPITAL CORPORATION Brokerage Lic.#10675

PAGE 23

Ertel: Karla Eileen (née Kelly)

A resident of Chatham. Karla Eileen Ertel passed away peacefully at home on April 9, 2024 at the age of 77. Karla was the beloved wife and best friend for 54 years to Jack (Jay) Ertel. She was the loving mother to her two daughters Lauren Stirling (Brian Dantas) of West Bloomfield MI and Marti Ertel-Karpala (Ken Karpala), Belle River ON. Devoted grandmother “Mya” to the love of her life Sloane Stirling. She was predeceased by parents Francis Kelly and Veronica Kelly, by brothers Paul Kelly , James Kelly, Joseph Kelly and sisters Leone Callander, Barb Delaney and Bonnie Davies. She is survived by husband Jack (Jay) Ertel and many cousins, nieces, and nephews and their families. Karla will be greatly missed. Karla was born in Guelph, ON. She graduated from St. Joseph’s School of Nursing in Chatham as an RN and the University of Windsor with a BA in Sociology and a B.Ed. Her nursing career included employment at a hospital and a long term care nursing home. After raising her family and completing her degrees she worked at Mental Health Kent as an administrator at a group home and then dedicated herself to teaching with The Kent County Board of Education. Karla was a retired teacher who was passionate about her career and the success of her students.

She loved working with the grades 1 & 2 in Chatham, Blenheim and Ridgetown. She introduced learning centres to the classroom. A student favourite was the reading centre. A bright yellow cast iron bathtub with legs and a blanket. A favourite project featured Russell, a fully grown duck that joined the classroom daily. The students heard about his escapades and then wrote their lessons. Many fond teaching memories were enjoyed by Karla in retirement. Karla enjoyed entertaining family and friends at the cottage in Balm Beach, ON from the 70’s to the present time in the summer. She played tennis for many years and just recently began to enjoy Pickleball. Fitness was a lifestyle for Karla. She was an active member of the Chatham Fitness Centres for many years. Karla had the opportunity to explore many cultures during her 24 years of retirement through travel with her beloved husband Jay. Travel included visiting many countries in North and Central America, Europe, British Isles and South America. Karla was also an active participant in many St. Clair College Retirees’ Association activities. As per Karla’s wishes cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at a later date for the family. A special thank you to our Physicians and the Home Care Team who showed compassion and love during her 7 years with Alzheimer disease; Dr. Biondi and Dr. Sutherland, Chatham and Dr. Pasternak, London. Donations in Karla’s memory may be made to the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation or a Charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham. 519-351-2040.

Wanted

Wanted

Ministry

Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash.

519-727-8894.

Wanted to rent or buy 1 or 4 acres of land in Chatham-Kent area. No buildings or utilities needed. Rural area preferred. 519-3525414 or 226-6275414.

Redeemer of Love Ministry has a Christian male support group for males struggling with sexual addiction. Coffee and bible study weekly. Prayer line open 12am-7pm daily and a fellowship pot sharing meal on Sundays at 6pm. A house based ministry call Doug for more info 519-354-3532, if not in, leave a message, your call will be returned.

This week’s puzzles found on page 20

Card of Thanks The family of the late Mary Ilene Gough (Stuart) would like to thank everyone for their condolences on the loss of our Mom, March 28, 2024. Special thanks to the nursing staff 2nd floor at the Village on the Thames for your love, compassion and care given to Mom during her 6 year stay.

Clare Young, John Stuart & Tom Stuart and all of our families.

Thank You

The Bechard family wishes to thank everyone who visited Linda at home, at hospice, and those who came to the funeral home, as well as those who attended the funeral mass. We certainly appreciative the lovely flowers, the donations, and the masses in her honour. I think the only things in life Linda loved more than flowers were Christmas, God, and her family.

Special thanks to Kathy for the weekly shopping trips when she was able to, to the pallbearers, to Lucille for the beautiful readings in church (and the cheeseburger trips with the girls), Father Kim for the beautiful celebration of mass. To Rose Marie, Junior, Norm, and Bernie for the music and hymns. We really appreciated the large honour guard from the Ladies of Ste. Anne and their luncheon committee who prepared such a tasty lunch.

The care she received from Dr. Heather Milkovic, Dr. Epp, Dr. Ramirez and her nurse Marci Hart was simply exceptional. We were also very grateful for the care she received during her final week from Dr. Bailey and the entire staff and volunteers at Chatham-Kent Hospice.

In the summer of 1999, Linda was first introduced to Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma, an extremely rare and slow growing cancer. There are no known treatments or cures for it and most medical professionals do not even know it exists.

It slowly spread over the last decade invading the bones, the spine, and every organ in her body.

Her family is so proud of how she faced such adversity. She has been an inspiration to many people in this community, never complaining and always with a smile on her face. She would always tell us that God does not give us more than we can handle. I certainly had my doubts during her last weeks on earth. I am so proud and honoured to have been married to this wonderful lady for the past 56 years.

Armand Béchard

Wanted Wanted part time “licensed” driver for 1 stop grocery shopping in Chatham.

Senior citizen needs “caring and responsible” person to take & return back home from stores. Contains about 3-4 hrs time, roughly 3 times per month, every 10-11 days, going to only 1 store each trip. This is a “paying” job only to the right person.

Not a charity trip or use of a volunteer or a freebee scam. Reply by stating first name only, male or female, desired rate of pay for time/vehicle/gas/etc. Use home phone number when writing me & best time to call you at that number. Write to PO Box #534, Stn. Main, Chatham, ON. #120 Wellington St. N7M 5K6.

PAGE 24

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

GET THREE MONTHS

FREE RENT!

*

*On a 15-month lease signed before May 31, 2024. Conditions apply, inquire for details.

MOVE-IN READY RENT NOW!

OPEN HOUSE

April 25–27 | 11am to 3pm Monique Lifestyle Rental Consultant

(226) 896-1542

Scan here to Learn more! riversedgeapartments.ca/np 53 & 57 Riverview Drive, Chatham, ON