In July, I was writing about (yet another) update to Chatham-Kent’s Cultural Plan after council authorized another update to the document which first saw the light of day in 2007. 

Of course, given the fact that it was pretty much assumed by then that a certain $53 million project would be moving forward, maybe that’s $120,000 well spent. 

In the request for proposals for the update, it was noted that: “Consideration will also be given to the evolution of the Chatham-Kent Community Hub Project and the opportunities it presents, including for both the CK Museum and the Chatham Cultural Centre (including the Thames Art Gallery and Kiwanis Theatre).” 

Later in the month, the homeless encampment that had been perched on the Thames River near downtown Chatham was whisked away with its residents and their meagre belongings moving to a new site near the municipally owned Public Utilities Commission property on Grand Avenue. 

Of course, there was a lot of chatter about the move and about homelessness in general and failures to address it, specifically, which lasted through the rest of the year and is an issue that will have no resolution anytime soon. 

On a brighter note, the summer was spent with all those involved in Chatham-Kent’s agriculture sector doing what they do best, growing for the world and allowing area residents to reap – and taste – the benefits of our proximity to the vast amount of produce we have ready access to. 

I’m sure I’m not the only one who was busily picking, cooking and freezing their way to culinary success throughout the growing season. 

This year, I was even able to present pumpkin butter at the Christmas gathering, “made by me from local pumpkins!” 

And, with grocery prices what they are, we’re doubly fortunate to be able to enjoy the bounty provided by........

© Sarnia Observer