Chatham-Kent news

• Gilberts: Author Doris Parkin Keil, a life of note

  22-07-2026 19:40 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  After discussing The Ploughboy and the Nightingale last week, we promised more about its author Doris Parkin Keil. We knew her daughter was a Bradley, so we turned to the Bradley family for help. Thanks so much to Lauren and her father, Brock Bradley, who were happy to give me details and share memories of their grandmother and great-grandmother.Doris Arvilla Parkin was born on Nov. 8, 1900 and lived most of her life in Chatham-Kent. Nevertheless, she was a world traveller and endlessly curious
  
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• Take photos with sunflowers while helping local Alzheimer Society

  22-07-2026 22:24 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Puddleford Tree Farm is gearing up to welcome the public to its field of sunflowers for their photographic and selfie-taking pleasure.The Kent Bridge area farm officially opens for the season Aug. 1 and will go for as long as the sunflowers bloom.Providing access to its field of sunflowers, with seed provided by its local Pioneer dealer, is a fundraiser for the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent’s day program, said Gail Whitney, who operates the U-cut Christmas tree farm with her husband M
  
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• Trail dedicated in memory of popular Tilbury politician Bryon Fluker

  22-07-2026 22:20 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Bryon Fluker, who served the Tilbury and area community for more than four decades, also was frequently seen around the community engaging with residents.A favourite place for the late politician to walk was the trail in Tilbury’s Memorial Park. On Tuesday, the Bryon Fluker memorial trail was unveiled in the park.Current West Kent Coun. Melissa Harrigan, who received unanimous council support to have the trail named in Fluker’s honour, provided details of his political career that b
  
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• CK VOTES: Jeff Comiskey running for council in Ward 6 North West Chatham

  22-07-2026 17:17 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Name: Jeff ComiskeyAge: 54Ward: 6 Why are you running for council? Nearly two decades ago, I opened my first business. As an independent business owner, I always have believed the customers’ needs are paramount and always No. 1. When elected, I will lead with the same principles as your representative in Ward 6, to ensure the needs of all citizens are always front and centre. What are some important issues you plan to address if elected? I promise to be your voice to ensure Chatham-Kent a
  
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• SCRCA awards four students with scholarships

  21-07-2026 17:49 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority has awarded scholarships to four students for their academic achievement and commitment to the environment. Greg Grimes, conservation authority chair, presented the students with a total of $3,000. The funds come from the St. Clair Region Conservation Foundation and its donors. “These students have demonstrated a remarkable commitment to both academic excellence and environmental stewardship,” Grimes said in a news release. “Their pa
  
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• Chatham project seeks safe, affordable housing for youth leaving care

  21-07-2026 15:54 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  A Chatham native, who grew up in foster care, is working to provide safe, affordable housing for youth leaving care.Ryan Donais, executive director of Tiny Tiny Homes, has had success building tiny homes in Toronto, but that’s not what he has planned for Chatham.Tiny homes are a “great temporary solution,” because they’re cheap, easy to build and “rapidly deployable to get someone out of the elements,” he said.But real long-term success comes with housing, no
  
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• Canadian Motorcycle Cruisers sell out fundraiser for Chatham Goodfellows

  20-07-2026 21:53 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Members of the Chatham Goodfellows and Canadian Motorcycle Cruisers have delivered $20,000 to the winner of their sold-out 50/50 fundraiser. Rob Hill, who purchased his ticket in Tilbury in early April, recently accepted his cheque from the organizers. He was “astonished upon being notified of his win, having barely recalled purchasing the ticket,” a news release from Chatham Goodfellows stated. Nadine Giroux led this year’s fundraiser. The motorcycle group reached its goal of
  
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• Food for Thought: Lake Erie-caught fish often overlooked as local food

  20-07-2026 19:51 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Buying local food continues to be a trend across Canada. How many of us think about fish when we talk about local food?In Southwestern Ontario, we have a vibrant sport fishing sector, but we also have a huge commercial fishing sector.Wheatley is the largest fresh water commercial fishing port in the world.The head office of the Ontario Commercial Fisheries’ Association (OCFA) is in Blenheim.The OCFA represents a sector that has been a part of the history, culture, and economy of our part
  
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• African-Caribbean culture featured during Taste of Chatham-Kent festival

  20-07-2026 19:47 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  The local African-Caribbean community showcased its culture Sunday as part of the ongoing Taste of Chatham-Kent (TOCK) celebration of diversity.Called the No Wahala African Caribbean Hub, one of the organizers, Elsie Oluku, said it was an “African-Caribbean party” to show area residents “a bit of our food, dance and music.”It was also a chance to teach people the meaning of No Wahala.“That simply means no worries,” Oluku said. “It’s slang back hom
  
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• A Long Ride Home premieres to appreciative audience at Capitol Theatre

  20-07-2026 05:57 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  The TV series, A Long Ride Home, showing in Bell Fibe TV, initially written as a movie screen play, hit the big screen at the Chatham Capitol Theatre as it was originally created.The movie version, filmed in Chatham-Kent, was loudly cheered by the hundreds of people attending the red carpet premiere Saturday night.The compelling story is based around lead character Mick Gale, played by London actor Geoff MacDonald, who returns to Chatham 25 years after running away from an abusive father, after
  
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• CK Votes: Brent DeNure running for council in Wallaceburg and Area Ward 5

  18-07-2026 18:21 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Name: Brent DeNureAge: 47Ward: 5Why are you running for council?Chatham-Kent is at a turning point. We must fix our vital infrastructure—including bridges, roads, and arenas—while keeping the tax burden within reason. Rural areas currently feel disconnected and void of a voice. My goal is to champion Community Councils to reinstate decision-making power to non-Chatham communities, helping them maintain their distinct identities and bringing essential course-correction before it&rsqu
  
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• CK Votes: Dustin Gawne running for council in Ward 7 North East Chatham

  18-07-2026 17:03 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Name: Dustin GawneAge: 43Ward: 7Why are you running for council?I’m running because I believe Chatham-Kent deserves leaders who listen, show up, and aren’t afraid to ask difficult questions. I’ve spent much of my life advocating—not only for myself after a spinal cord injury, but for others facing challenges with addiction, mental health, accessibility, and navigating complicated systems. Those experiences taught me resilience, accountability, and the importance of treat
  
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• Better data, acquisitions and inflation contributing to Chatham-Kent's asset replacement costs

  17-07-2026 22:38 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  The replacement costs of Chatham-Kent’s assets grew by $300 million since last year, but part of the reason for the increase is better data available, the municipality’s manager of asset and quality management told council recently. Sean Hilderley said at the July 13 council meeting that the cost to replace all municipal assets is $13.3 billion, up from $13.03 billion in 2025. These numbers represent what it would cost today to replace these assets, rather than the historical costs
  
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• PHOTOS: Cherryfest underway in downtown Blenheim

  17-07-2026 22:11 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  With midway rides, entertainment, vendors and plenty of treats, the 43rd annual Blenheim Cherryfest has something for everyone. The festivities continue Saturday, when there will be a pie contest, as well as the popular pit spit. For more information, including event times, visit Blenheim Cherryfest on Facebook. Photos by Trevor [email protected]
  
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• Woman charged with arson in Park Street fire

  17-07-2026 21:46 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Chatham-Kent police charged a 35-year-old Chatham woman with arson after a fire on Park Street Tuesday.“The fire originated at the rear of a vacant residence and quickly spread to two neighbouring properties,” Chatham-Kent police said in a release.“One of the neighbouring homes was occupied at the time by four residents who were asleep when the fire spread to their residence. All occupants were able to safely evacuate without injury.”A woman was seen on surveillance vide
  
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• Riverview Gardens to host new 49-space child-care centre

  17-07-2026 19:14 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Chatham-Kent council has approved a contract award for renovations that will transform space at Riverview Gardens into a new licensed child-care centre.The project will create 49 new affordable child-care spaces in central Chatham, helping address a shortage of spots for children from newborn to four years old.The new centre will be owned by the municipality and run by a non-profit childcare provider selected through a separate competitive process.Once complete, the centre will offer child care
  
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• CK VOTES: Former mayor Randy Hope looks to make political return

  17-07-2026 00:14 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Former Chatham-Kent mayor Randy Hope is looking to return to the municipality’s top job.Out of politics since three terms as mayor from 2006-18, he filed nomination papers Thursday to become the sixth candidate seeking the job this fall.“I’ve been getting a lot of inquiries asking me why don’t I run again,” he said. “You do miss politics, it’s a standard line. But it just seemed like the calls were coming out heavier and heavier and heavier.“It go
  
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• CK VOTES: Former mayor Randy Hope looking to make political return

  17-07-2026 00:14 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Former Chatham-Kent mayor Randy Hope is looking to return to the political arena.Serving in the top role for three terms from 2006 to 2018, he filed his papers on Thursday, becoming the sixth candidate for the job.“I’ve been getting a lot of inquiries asking me why don’t I run again,” he told The Daily News. “You do miss politics, it’s a standard line. But it just seemed like the calls were coming out heavier and heavier and heavier.“It got to the point
  
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• CK VOTES: Jim Blake running for council in Ward 5 Wallaceburg

  16-07-2026 22:02 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Name: Jim BlakeAge: 70Ward: Ward 5 Why are you running for council? Municipal government needs to show leadership, vision and accountability and I believe I can help contribute in all three areas. Too many in our community are hurting due to economic uncertainty, lack of opportunity and a belief they are being left out of the process. I believe we need to use the abilities and talents of everyone to help move our community forward. What are some important issues you plan to address if elected?
  
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• Air quality warning prompts Chatham-Kent closures, relief centres opening doors

  16-07-2026 18:19 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  The ongoing air quality warning resulted in the interruption of some services Thursday, as well as the opening of sites for people to seek relief.Wildfire smoke from northwestern Ontario moved into the area recently, with residents urged to use caution, particularly vulnerable populations including seniors, children and those with health concerns.All municipal waste depots were closed Thursday, including Wallaceburg and Harwich, as well as Chatham’s leaf and yard depot.All outdoor pools i
  
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• CKHA names new patient and family advisory council co-chair

  16-07-2026 15:25 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Chatham-Kent Health Alliance has announced a new co-chair for its patient and family advisory council. Crystal Doherty, a volunteer patient experience adviser, assumes her new post Sept. 1. She will work with the patient relations specialist and patient experience and communications director to lead patient- and family-centred care at the hospital group, a release said. Doherty is a mother of two and a university student pursuing a degree in Indigenous social work. She joined the patient and fa
  
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• Municipal staff to study next steps for Chatham-Kent buildings

  16-07-2026 15:24 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Chatham-Kent staff will study and report back on next steps for several municipal buildings, council has decided.These reports will also discuss the relocation of Chatham-Kent Fire Station 1 and the redevelopment of the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent site.Updated appraisals will be sought next year for the civic centre, Chatham library, library parking lot and Station 1 to inform the property disposition process.“This will be for the next council, not this council,&rdqu
  
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• CK VOTES: Mark Childs running for council in Ward 5 Wallaceburg

  15-07-2026 20:29 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Name: Mark ChildsAge: 65Ward: 5 Why are you running for council? I have always tried to do my part in helping others in our community. Now, I believe its time to take it to the next level. I might not always have the answers, but I will dig deep and get you the answers. Honesty and transparency are two things I bring to the table along with a passion for Wallaceburg. I have begun an intense self-education of all things municipal to allow me to better serve the community. When I do something, I
  
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• Air quality warning issued for Chatham-Kent due to wildfires

  15-07-2026 18:06 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Poor air quality in Chatham-Kent is expected this week, as wildfire smoke from northwestern Ontario moves into the area.An orange-level air quality warning was issued, with residents urged to use caution when outdoors.“Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health, even at low concentrations,” the health unit said. “Additionally, people with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at h
  
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• Make an informed choice when visiting a public beach this summer: Nesathurai

  14-07-2026 20:21 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  People looking to enjoy Chatham-Kent’s public beaches should ask some questions before wading in the water. Dr. Shanker Nesathurai, the municipality’s medical officer of health, gave a presentation at Monday’s board of health meeting, where he said the monthly testing of beach water only provides a snapshot of the time when the water samples were collected. The public health unit sends the samples in for testing for a bacteria called E. coli, but other bacteria and parasites c
  
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• Chatham-Kent council hits pause on possible ARTspace move

  14-07-2026 20:07 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Chatham’s ARTspace will stay put for up to two years, to allow more discussions about what its future may look like, Chatham-Kent council has decided.East Kent Coun. Morena McDonald won support for her call to pause a proposed relocation to the Chatham Cultural Centre, and develop alternatives – including options for updated management models – in consultation with a newly developed community advisory group, at Monday’s council meeting.Artists from across Chatham-Kent ha
  
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• Londoner faces charges after wild Chatham home invasion, struggle and gunshot

  13-07-2026 22:32 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  A London man faces robbery, drug and weapons charges after a wild Saturday night home invasion in which a witness struggled with and detained a suspect who pulled a gun, which went off, Chatham-Kent police say.Officers responding to a reported home invasion at a Taylor Avenue address in Chatham about 9 p.m. learned two suspects entered the residence and demanded property from the occupant before fleeing, police said.“The incident escalated into a disturbance involving multiple individuals
  
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• PHOTOS: Mitchell's Bay Open anglers take to the water

  12-07-2026 19:02 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  Eighty-five teams took to the waters of Lake St. Clair on Friday and Saturday for the 12th annual Canadian Tire Mitchell’s Bay Open bass tournament.A large crowd was on hand for the weigh-in at Mitchell’s Bay Marine Park, with anglers posing for photos in front of the leader board.Veteran U.S. tournament fishers also took part, including Ohio residents Alex Redwine and Jeremy Reese, Michigan residents Mark Modrak and Mike Trombly, and Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame inductee Steve C
  
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• Sun shines on newcomers at Kingston Park picnic

  12-07-2026 01:07 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  With Mother Nature co-operating, numerous cultures were celebrated at Chatham’s Kingston Park during the annual newcomer picnic.Organized by Adult Language and Learning, Saturday’s event featured activities, games and lunch, and plenty of soccer.The community non-profit organization helps provide settlement assistance, as well as language courses. Networking events help them feel welcome, create relationships, and also promote Chatham-Kent’s diversity.“Couldn’t be
  
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• Sun shines on newcomers at annual picnic

  12-07-2026 01:07 via chathamdailynews.ca
  
  With Mother Nature co-operating, numerous cultures were celebrated at Chatham’s Kingston Park during the annual newcomer picnic.Organized by Adult Language and Learning, Saturday’s event featured activities, games and lunch, and of course, plenty of soccer.The community non-profit organization helps provide settlement assistance, as well as language courses. Networking events help them feel welcome, create relationships, and also promote Chatham-Kent’s diversity.“Couldn&
  
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