Jubenville docked pay again
North Kent councillor pondering another judicial review on the matter
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Despite a plea from Coun. Rhonda Jubenville to “move on” and forgo a recommendation from the integrity commissioner (IC) to dock her two month’s pay, Chatham-Kent council decided otherwise.
At the Dec. 1 meeting, council voted 9-5 to suspend Jubenville’s pay, based on a report from former IC Mary Ellen Bench. Bench recommended the two-month suspension, stating Jubenville had breached Section 15 of the Code of Conduct – the section she considers to be the most “significant breach of the code,” noting “bullying and abuse” significantly impacted members of the public, staff and council.
The sanctions in question stem from social media posts made by Jubenville relating to a flag flap in 2023. In the spring of that year, Jubenville put forward a motion that only municipal, provincial and federal flags be flown at municipal sites. The councillor’s motion came after a request from a Chatham-based pro-life group to fly its flag was bypassed by the municipality. The issue snowballed on social media, devolving into a heated discussion about Pride flags on municipal property and LGTBQ rights. Follow-
ATTENTION SENIORS
ing a complaint about some of Jubenville’s social media posts, an investigation was launched by the IC.
In her original report, Bench found Jubenville had breached Section 10 and Section 15 of the code and recommended council dock her three month’s pay. Council went ahead with the three-month pay suspension – the harshest penalty available. However, Jubenville appealed the matter in court and this past summer, a judicial review quashed Bench’s original report and council’s penalty. The three-member panel found she did not breach Section 10 but found it to be “reasonable” she had breached Section 15.
As a result, Jubenville was awarded $20,000 in costs from the municipality. Bench was
asked to revisit the matter and issue a report following the Judicial Review. Those voting in favour of the two-month pay suspension Dec. 1 included councillors Conor Allin, Brock McGregor, Anthony Ceccacci, Marjorie Crew, Hall, Melissa Harrigan, Morena McDonald, Jamie McGrail and Trevor Thompson.
“I feel my sincere words fell on mostly deaf ears. My naive self thought I had forged good professional relationships with most of these people. I thought perhaps they (council) realized who I really was and not how a biased integrity commissioner had falsely presented me. Boy, was I wrong.”
- Rhonda Jubenville
Against were Lauren Anderson, Michael Bondy, Ryan Doyle, Amy Finn and John Wright. Coun. Alysson Storey was attending the meeting remotely and was unable to register her vote.
Prior to the vote, Bondy and Doyle said they would not support the motion with Bondy stating he had another motion ready to go in the event
the original one failed. Wallaceburg Coun. Carmen McGregor and Mayor Darrin Canniff were absent from the meeting. Council also heard the matter has cost the municipality $188,622, not including the $20,000 payment to Jubenville, an amount she had not yet received.
In light of the new two-month sanction and the fact the original payment had not been made, C-K deputy CAO Dave Taylor told council Jubenville will be reimbursed onemonth’s salary.
Prior to the meeting, Jubenville asked for extra time to address council, speaking for eight minutes. During her talk, the councillor said Bench’s report was not “fulsome” and had many omissions.
• Setting up personal electronics
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In her comments posted online post meeting, Jubenville said Bench excluded many items from the report and it was “biased and prejudiced” against her.
“I feel my sincere words fell on mostly deaf ears,” the councillor wrote. “My naive self thought I had forged good professional relationships with most of these people. I thought perhaps they (council) realized who I really was and not how a biased integrity commissioner had falsely presented me. Boy, was I wrong,” she typed on social media.
Jubenville has not yet confirmed if she will appeal the decision.
Rhonda Jubenville
New tech upgrades 911 accuracy
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Move over analogue, Next Generation 911 has arrived in Chatham-Kent.
Officially launched Dec. 1, the municipality’s new state-of-the-art system utilizes technology capable of identifying a caller’s location in real time with near pinpoint accuracy.
“We can identify where a call is being made within a few metres,” said Amy Dawson, manager of the Chatham-Kent Police Service (CKPS) emergency communications centre that dispatches police and fire. Because the tech-
nology provides instant results, she said the information means first responders can respond faster.
“That’s what every emergency communicator wants is to get help to someone as quick as they possibly can,” Dawson told reporters at a media information session in Chatham.
Chatham-Kent’s 911 call centre responds to an average of 3,000 calls per month, 80 per cent of which come from cell phones. Chatham-Kent
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) currently runs its own call centre, but will join police and fire in the new centre next
year.
CKPS Chief Kirk Earley said the system, commonly referred to as “NG911,” enhances safety across the board.
“Keeping our community safe is at the core of what we do,” Earley said. “NG911 will make sure when someone calls for help, our first responders receive the most accurate and up-to-date information possible so we can get there faster.
“Previously in the analogue system, we had a 100-foot radius; now we’re down to 10 feet,” the chief explained.
“That’s key.”
NG911 also allows operators to track cell phone
“drops” with the ability to see a caller’s location in a moving vehicle. And when the second phase of the project rolls out in 2027, emergency dispatchers will be able to receive real-time texting and video communication. Translation capacity for non-English speaking callers will also be built in.
Officials said the new system benefits distraught callers – those who can’t speak and people in dangerous situations. All stressed the importance of time.
“So, in the fire service, seconds can save lives,”
Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue assistant chief Adam Walters said. “NG911 is going to increase the data we can get to front-line firefighters,” he added, giving personnel critical information so they can use it to prepare enroute.
CK EMS acting general manager Pete Morasutti echoed Walters.
“Every second matters,” he said. “Better situational awareness means paramedics can begin life-saving decision making from the moment we are dispatched.”
According to CKPS project manager Sarah VandenBrand, Chatham-Kent already has the capability to handle the 2027 D-2 (additional information) rollout and has built in safeguards against cyberattacks, noting the system is cut off from the Internet, with no external access.
“We actually locked it down so that nobody can gain access, and it’s completely separated by its own extensive firewalls and government-standard security,” VandenBrand explained. Earley thanked both VandenBrand and Dawson for their efforts in getting the project off the ground.
Chatham-Kent is one of the municipalities leading the way in Ontario joining 19 other municipalities who incorporated NG911. The federal government has mandated the system be adopted Canada-wide by 2027.
To date, the Ontario government has provided $4 million in funding for the C-K project.
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Chatham-Kent Police Service project manager Sarah VandenBrand, CKPS Emergency Communications Centre manager Amy Dawson, CKPS Chief Kirk Earley, Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue Assistant Chief Adam Walters and EMS acting general manager Pete Morasutti at a media briefing held last week in Chatham as part of Next Generation 911 system launch.
Culling trustees will hurt education
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
If the province proceeds as planned, the era of elected school board trustees could end under Bill 33.
Passed by the Ontario Legislature Nov.19 and given Royal Assent the following day, the bill allows the government to expand the Ministry of Education’s powers.
Minister of Education
Paul Calandra has stated the bill allows government to get school boards that “fall off the rails” back on track.
But critics – including a local board chair and the unions representing teachers and education workers – say Bill 33 undermines the democratic process by removing locally elected representatives.
Lambton Kent District
School Board chair Kelley Robertson said taking away the public’s right to vote for their school board trustees will negatively impact the education system, particularly in rural Ontario.
“Trustees are the bridge between parents, students and their school boards,” Robertson said in a statement to The Voice. “If trustees were removed, I believe that parents across Ontario, especially in more rural communities ... those families in Lambton Kent would lose their direct democratic voice in education.”
According to Robertson, trustees are frequently contacted by local members of the community.
“When buses run late, programs are being revised, or a child needs help, families deserve someone who understands their community,”
she said.
The LKDSB, formed in 1998 when the Kent and Lambton County boards merged, serves 22,000 students in 62 schools. The board has 30 schools located in Chatham-Kent. In the most recent budget year, 11 board trustees and three student trustees cost the board $174,753.
system dates back to the mid-1800s.
In response to an inquiry about Bill 33 from The Voice, SCCDSB director of education Lisa Demers said St. Clair Catholic District School Board trustees “will reserve comment at this time.
“If trustees were removed, I believe that parents across Ontario, especially in more rural communities ... those families in Lambton Kent would lose their direct democratic voice in education.”
- LKDSB’s Kelley Robertson
The St. Clair Catholic District School, formed in 1998 when the Kent and Lambton Roman Catholic boards amalgamated, currently serves 24 schools, with 10 of those located in Chatham-Kent. The election of school board trustees in the Catholic
“We await the details of any proposed changes from the Ministry of Education,” she said in an email message.
The cost of the board’s seven elected trustees and two student trustees came in “under budget” in the last fiscal period. Trustee honoraria in 2024-2025 was $73,170 for all seven trustees, plus $21,078 in
expenses. The honoraria funding is provided by the province.
St. Clair Catholic serves approximately 9,500 students.
Earlier this year, prior to Bill 33’s approval, the province took over the Toronto District School Board, the Toronto Catholic District School Board, the Dufferin-Peel Catholic School Board, the Ottawa-Carleton District School and the Thames Valley District School Board (London). The government has appointed supervisors to oversee each board and by January, these boards have been directed to create “support offices” to allow input from parents and the community. Late last month the ministry took over the Near North School Board in the Parry Sound area. According to previously
published reports, Calandra said the new offices will give families “clear answers and timely solutions when it comes to their child’s education.” The remaining boards are expected to submit reports by March 31, outlining how they will establish similar offices by Sept. 1, 2026.
Estimates filed to the Ministry of Education by Ontario’s 72 boards this past summer for the 202526 school year show 25 boards approved deficit budgets while another 19 just managed to balance their books. Surpluses among the remaining 28 boards were small compared to years past, and almost all surpluses this school year are projected to be less than $500,000. Out of all the boards in Ontario, SCCDSB is in the best financial shape and runs with a surplus.
Trio of battery storage sites possible for C-K
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Three new battery storage developments could be coming to Chatham-Kent, if Ontario’s Independent Electricity Operator (IESO) gives the go-ahead.
At the Dec. 1 meeting, municipal council endorsed the trio of projects, that, if constructed, would generate more than $90 million for C-K over 20 years as part of community support agreements.
Aypa Power Canada is looking at building the Queen’s Line Reliability Project Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on Queen’s Line near Dillon Road, as well as the Bloomfield Reliability Project, adjacent to the Bloomfield Business Park south of Chatham.
The Sandhill BESS project would be located east of Wallaceburg on Baseline Road. However, it’s still early. Each company has to submit their proposals to the IESO. If approved, rigorous assessments and permitting still needs to be carried out. Following construction, 2028 is the earliest the developments
Park
would become operational.
Aypa’s application would see the 12-acre Queen’s Line development take shape on 33 acres of land and the 12-acre Bloomfield project, housed on 21 acres. The 500 MW Queen’s Line development would hold enough electricity to power 150,000 homes, while the Bloomfield facility would hold capacity of up to 200 MW.
In a presentation to council,
Aypa’s Ondrej Benjik said the company is investing approximately $700 million in the Queen’s Line complex and another $350 million at Bloomfield.
Benjik said the land for each project will be leased for a 20-year period with a promise to return it to its original state when it is decommissioned.
The application for the Sandhill BESS from an Alberta numbered company (Ferma Energy and Innergex Renewable Energy Inc.) would be located near Hydro One’s recent multi-million-dollar upgrade on its transformer station east of Wallaceburg. In his comments, Sandhill spokesman Mike Brugge told council that Sandhill will take shape on a 100-acre
parcel of land, but will only sit on 30 to 40 acres.
Caldwell First Nation is an equity partner in the Wallaceburg Sandhill project.
All of the projects will spur economic growth by creating hundreds of construction jobs and a few full-time positions upon completion.
According to a report from C-K administration, Ontario’s electricity system needs to “accelerate at an unprecedented pace” in order to meet the province’s electricity demands which the IESO predicts will rise 75 per cent by 2050. Each of the new developments dovetail with major upgrades on the region’s power grid, including the expansion of the St. Clair Transmission Line and the Chatham-Lakeshore Transmission Line.
Battery storage facilities are needed, officials said, as Ontario overproduces power in the evenings. BESS projects allow that power to be stored and then released when it is needed at peak times.
C-K general manager of development services Bruce McAllister said the projects are “capacity projects,” designed to enhance the system’s reliability.
to receive $3.3M in
upgrades
The second phase of the St. Clair College Community Park is slated to begin next spring. At the Dec. 1 meeting, Chatham-Kent council approved a bid of $3.3 million from Westhoek Construction. The Chatham-based company was among seven businesses who submitted tenders to carry out the work.
According to a report from
administration, phase two will see the construction of 10 pickleball courts; two basketball courts; two washroom buildings; a playground and associated pathways and accessories.
In the works since 2023, when St. Clair College donated 19.5 acres of land, the park will be completed in three phases. Phase one included parking and infrastructure work, as well as the opening of the Rogers Tennis Dome in
Ornament
Christmas Warehouse Sale Annual
October.
Funding to build the park kicked off in 2023 with $200,000 from C-K’s strategic reserves, followed by $2 million from the Hydro One Community Benefit Fund. A total of $1.5 million from the municipal budget will go towards developing the park for a three-year period from 2024-26.
Work on phase 2 will commence in April, with completion set for fall.
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Little Leo White took creating a Christmas ornament with his handprint very seriously at a recent holiday-themed Mother Goose session at the Chatham-Kent Public Library Chatham. He had plenty of help from mom Jessica and library staffer Reanne Rekker.
The Chatham Voice
Opinion
Right direction
If the Chatham-Kent Police Service can follow through on its recent announcements, it may have hit the sweet spot in combining technology with community policing.
Chief Kirk Earley touted the recently-enabled Next Generation 911 service as the ultimate upgrade in emergency communications during a joint media session with officials from Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue and Chatham-Kent Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
adopted Canada-wide by 2027.
The second, although less shiny, initiative announced by Earley is enhanced community policing featuring a dedicated downtown Chatham foot-patrol and increased patrols in other downtown areas.
The actions are partially due to the ongoing problem with vandalism, homelessness and property damage.
NG911, as it’s known, identifies the location of a caller within a few metres and provides instant results. In a field where saving seconds can save lives, the technology is transformational. EMS, which currently runs its own call centre, will join police and fire in the new centre next year in dealing with the 3,000 911 calls each month, 80 per cent of which come from cell phones.
By 2027, the system will include real-time texting and video communication as well as translation capacity for non-English speaking callers.
Chatham-Kent (aided by $4 million in provincial funding) is among the first wave of 20 municipalities incorporating NG911. The federal government has mandated the system be
Although they may be technically accurate, police responses to public complaints have come off as cold and uncaring.
The difference in having what is perceived as a faceless, nameless officer drive by a location occasionally, and police taking the time to interact with downtown residents and business owners is significant. It may be considered old-school, but it worked.
Putting a face to a name and developing interpersonal relationships can provide valuable information to police.
Furthermore, it builds trust and confidence in the CKPS, which is always desirable.
For the effort to succeed, it will need continued support and acknowledgment from police management, now and into the future.
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C-K realtors ask province to step up
Editor: On behalf of the Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors (CKAR), we support the call for increased provincial investment in municipal infrastructure, including the request to lift the $10-million Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF) cap. Ensuring that Chatham-Kent receives equitable provincial funding is critical to maintaining essential infrastructure and supporting sustainable growth. At the same time, as realtors, representing home buyers, sellers, and families across the municipality, we are increasingly concerned about the cumulative impact of local tax increases on overall housing affordability. Chatham-Kent remains one of Ontario’s most affordable housing markets, yet rising municipal costs and tax
burdens are eroding that advantage.
Recent analysis notes the significant decline in new home construction permits and the financial pressures faced by residents – indicators that affordability is tightening even before future tax decisions are made.
Local employers and entrepreneurs are voicing similar concerns. In its recent survey callout, the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce emphasized the importance of transparent, strategic budgeting, asking the business community to help “set the pace” for the municipality’s economic direction.
Property owners in Chatham-Kent face considerably higher tax rates than their counterparts in comparable communities across southwestern Ontario. This tax differential places our region at a competitive disadvantage when attracting new residents, businesses, and investment. For families considering relocation and entrepreneurs evaluating where to establish or expand their operations, property tax rates represent a critical factor in their decision-making process. We therefore support the pursuit of additional provincial dollars while also encouraging council to demonstrate continued fiscal responsibility and prudent spending decisions at the local level. Chatham Kent’s longterm prosperity depends on balancing growth opportunities with careful stewardship of taxpayer contributions.
Continued on page 7
Work together to return to spirit of unity
Editor: Remember when…”Chatham-Kent lands on Boardwalk in new Monopoly version” in 2010?
Or the May 16 Miracle in the middle of the pandemic in May of 2020, where an army of 3,000 volunteers collected goods and food from nearly 70,000 homes to
deliver to those in need?
Talk about the spirit of unity. But…spirit of unity where did you go?
Today we have:
• Small Communities want to de-amalgamate from the municipality.
• Disheartened members of the community are against municipal government.
Respect a person’s recycling
Editor: A recent in cident has prompted me to write this simply to spread some civil sense and awareness among certain communi ty members.
Please be mindful enough that if the recycling truck has passed by your spot and you are unable to place your bins there in time for whatever reason, then at least don’t have the audacity to bring those bins to someone else’s curb spot where they have already placed their own bins and blatantly place them
there to be emptied along with theirs. And let’s say once in a blue moon even if you do so then don’t be unkind and unmindful enough to take someone else’s brand-new recycling bin and leave behind your own broken and shabby one. Have some decency. Dear unconcerned neighbor, this time around your utter apathy has been caught on the camera.
Abida Ali Chatham
Fair funding, please
Continued from page 6
Responsible budgeting, paired with fair provincial funding, will help protect affordability for families, maintain confidence in our housing market, and strengthen our community’s economic future.
We appreciate council’s attention to these important issues and welcome the opportunity to collaborate on solutions that support both residents and the business community. Our association brings valuable market insights and is eager to
• Negative posts on social media against individuals and municipal government in general.
I would like to draw your attention to the Monopoly success and the Miracle. Who instituted and created these positive outcomes? The
Municipality of Chatham-Kent is a servant community. It is when the communities network together there is response and life. Individuals with the resolve and tenacity to create change and network together to bring positive outcomes that the com-
munity will be blessed. I am calling the Municipality of Chatham Kent to awaken to the spirit of community again! Everyone has a part, your expertise, your skills, your resolve will bring the needed change to create a well and prosperous municipality. Let’s fill this community with love and
joy again!
Just like Mayor Canniff has said, “When faced with challenges we never fail to rise to the occasion.”
We now have challenges; we now need to rise to the occasion.
contribute constructively to policy discussions that will shape Chatham-Kent’s economic future.
The residents and businesses of our community deserve a property tax burden that reflects local service levels and decisions, not funding limitations that force local taxpayers to compensate for provincial shortfalls.
Barbara McCaughrin President Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors
Karen Montgomery Chatham-Kent
The (snow-covered) road less travelled?
According to multi-national Samsara, we’ve got the most dangerous road in Ontario when it comes to driving in the winter. Erieau Road.
I’m on that stretch of asphalt every week. It’s early in the winter driving season and when I read the claim, I was skeptical. And then I drove along it with the snow blowing just last week.
My route takes me across parts of South Kent each week. My first encounter with blowing snow for the 2025-26 winter driving season took place on Merlin Road. The community of Merlin had substantially more snow than what we’d received in Chatham. Just south of Merlin, the streaks of blowing snow began leaving small drifts across the roadway. That amplified. I was down to 65 km/h on an
80 km/h road. Ice and blowing snow made the driving…interesting, especially with a strong and gusting cross wind.
Talbot Trail was a smooth drive, but Erieau Road on this day became “Merlin Road Lite.”
There were areas that were snow covered, and parts with drifting, as well as spots that had trees or buildings on the west side of the road –where the wind came from on this day – that were clear.
As I approached Bisnett Line from the south, I noticed a plow heading east
along Bisnett. I figured it would turn down Erieau Road, either to the north or south. It did not. It continued
DECEMBER
ROUNDTABLES
Tuesday, December 16th
along Bisnett, I am guessing on a predetermined patrol path, or to a road what might have been in greater need of attention than Erieau Road.
When I got back on Talbot Trail, I realized Erieau Road can indeed be a dangerous stretch, but no more so than so many other northsouth roads in Chatham-Kent.
I would think Highway 40 between Chatham and Wallaceburg would have greater risk potential. But, due to traffic
volumes, it very likely gets higher attention from plows.
I will remind motorists we are in winter-driving season (as if the snow is not obvious enough) and please adjust your driving habits accordingly.
That includes planning for time to clear off one’s vehicle and for the trip to take a bit longer because of road conditions.
Less haste means less waste.
As for Samsara, the company provides online platforms to help businesses with operations such as transportation, construction and logistics to improve safety and efficiency.
It analyzed its proprietary Canada-based crash
data from 2022–2025 to determine seasonal crash rates based on kilometres driven. It identified hot spots based on accident clusters on a singular road/ highway.
And Erieau Road topped the list in Ontario. It finished ahead of the morass that is the Highway 401/403/410 interchange area in Mississauga, which is rife with elevated and curving ramps and exposed to the elements as a result.
Placing third on Samsara’s list was the Burlington Skyway. I would NOT want to be on that long, elevated bridge in a howling snowstorm. I’d take Erieau Road any day of the week, thanks.
Death at tiny cabins
A person has died at the Pathways on Park tiny cabin shelter.
According to municipal officials, a shelter resident passed away Dec. 4 in their cabin.
However, as of press time, the coroner could not determine an “immediate cause of death” but municipal officials said there is no evidence of foul play.
Following the incident, municipal staff immediately co-ordinated emergency services and support is being provided to other residents at the site, as well as to staff and partner agencies impacted by the tragedy.
No personal-identifying information will be released with regard to the death out of respect for the deceased’s family and friends, officials said.
Brenna Corcoran/The Chatham Voice
Erieau Road, shown here on a recent day of blowing snow, is ranked as the most dangerous road in Ontario, according to Samsara. But is it?
Bruce Corcoran
The Chatham Voice
Just plain nuts
91 Adelaide St S $475,000
Butch Dompierre/Special to The Chatham Voice
A hungry blue jay forces a peanut free from a birdfeeder as the colder weather arrives.
Porchlight effort raises $53,000
$57,000.
The lights were on at front doors across Chatham recently, to the tune of more than $53,000.
Volunteers with the Chatham Goodfellows took in $53,199 in donations Dec. 1 in their annual Porchlight effort.
Goodfellows officials were very happy with the number, despite the fact last year’s effort raised
“Chatham Goodfellows board are left utterly speechless … Chatham continues to always have our backs,” a Goodfellows release stated.
“Thank you to all who donated to our Porchlight campaign and to all the incredible volunteers, we are truly humbled.”
The Goodfellows rely heavily on volunteer support and donations from
the public to deliver food baskets and toys to families in need at Christmas.
“Thanks for your continued support. Our organization is truly blessed and your generosity is truly incredible,” the release said.
Next up for the Goodfellows are Street Sales, set to take place in front of dozens of stores across Chatham and area on Dec. 12 and 13.
C-K heads UPSTREAM
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Chatham-Kent has been chosen to participate in the Canadian Centre for Safer Communities’ (CCFSC) Project UPSTREAM.
It’s only one of two Ontario municipalities – the other is Timmins – selected to participate in a two-year pilot project aimed at building safer communities. The project will bring organizations together in a bid to prevent violence, hate and social polarization.
Project UPSTEAM stands for Upskilling Prevention by Strengthening Readiness, Engagement and Multisectorality.
According to Erin DeMars, Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue community safety and well-being co-ordinator, the program will examine ways to prevent –rather than respond – to crises.
DeMars said Chatham-Kent joined the non-profit agency in the summer, saw the pilot project was taking place and decided to go for it with the support of Fire Chief Chris Case and Chatham-Kent Police Service Chief Kirk Earley.
“I consulted with Chief Case and Chief
Earley and we decided to throw our hat in the ring,” DeMars said.
Project UPSTREAM, involving 10 Canadian cities and municipalities, brings together a host of agencies revolving around community justice, trauma, strong cities and the prevention of extremist violence, DeMars said, adding it will kick off with a community safety needs and risks assessment. After that report is compiled, which is expected next spring, Chatham-Kent will be partnered with two of the organizations to best address issues the data uncovers.
“This is a really interesting opportunity to have some resources towards the prevention of violent extremism,” DeMars said. Along with CCFSC, the partner group includes the Canadian Practitioners Network for the Prevention of Extremist Violence; The Centre for Trauma-informed Practices; Community Justice Initiatives; Muflehun; Strong Cities Network; and YouTurn.
The project directly supports Chatham-Kent’s Community Safety and Well-Being (CSWB) Plan, which focuses on public safety, youth and family wellness, and building a strong sense of community belonging.
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Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice
Volunteers with Chatham Goodfellows celebrate after another successful Porchlight campaign, where the public donated $53,000 to the organization whose motto is “No Child Without a Christmas.”
Council seeks MP, MPPs meeting
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Chatham-Kent is looking to copy Windsor city council by arranging a public meeting with its federal and provincial elected representatives.
To that end, council approved a motion from Chatham Coun. Brock McGregor directing staff to invite MPPs Trevor Jones and Steve Pinsonneault, as well as MP Dave Epp, to a meeting to discuss issues and “enhance collaborative
efforts.”
McGregor, who spoke to the motion at the Dec. 1 council session, said he thought Windsor’s example was “really innovative.
“I think it’s a great step for us,” McGregor told council. “I know around
this table we often talk about some of the struggles that we face because we’re so dependent on provincial funding for things like homelessness, housing issues and infrastructure funding, “ noting C-K officials spend a lot of time and energy
advocating for the municipality.
“I think publicly putting out the invite, so that we can replicate what happened in Windsor, I think it would be good for us, good for them and good for the community,” McGregor said.
Further details will be made available on the meeting, and it was agreed that council would meet with each official one on one if a meeting with all three couldn’t be arranged because of scheduling.
The Chatham Voice CHRISTMAS QUIZ
1. What is the most recorded Christmas song?
2. What is the postal code for Santa Claus?
3. What is the highest grossing Christmas film of all time?
CLARICE
4. What is the most famous Christmas ballet?
5. What is the name of Rudolph’s girlfriend?
6. In the song “Winter Wonderland,” what do we call the snowman?
7. What was the first company that used Santa Claus in advertising?
8. What was the name of Rudolph’s dogsled driving friend?
9. What was the first artificial Christmas tree made of?
10. Who tells you she’s in town by tap, tap, tappin’ at your windowpane?
Event honours ag contributors
The Chatham Voice
Local leaders paving the way for success in agri-business were recently celebrated by the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce.
At the organization’s 79th annual Rural Urban Awards held at the Ridgetown College Uni-
versity of Guelph campus, five individuals and one business were honoured.
The award for Agriculturist of the Year went to farmer Brad Snobelen, past president of the Kent Federation of Agriculture.
The Woman of Agriculture award went to Sarah
Graham, founder of Sarah’s Farm Market.
Jay Cunningham was named Agriculture Innovator of the Year (individual), with the business Agriculture Innovator of the Year going to Country Market Garden, accepted by Alex Wingrove.
John Zandstra of the University of Guelph
Ridgetown was honoured with the Friend of Agriculture award; and the Future Leader of the Year went to Kane Brown-McKerrall.
The awards mark the connection between education, industry and community, recognizing excellence in innovation, stewardship, mentorship
and community impact.
In his remarks at the event, C-K Chamber executive director Rory Ring praised the honorees for their commitment to agriculture and Chatham-Kent.
“Tonight is about the people who feed our communities, power our economy, and invest so
deeply in the future of Chatham-Kent,” Ring stated in a media release.
“Together – sponsors, nominees, guests, our hosts in Ridgetown and the students who represent tomorrow – we embody the partnership that makes Chatham-Kent such a remarkable place to live, work and grow.”
Van Heck, Argenti to lead SCCDSB
Two experienced trustees have been acclaimed to lead the St. Clair Catholic District School Board for the 2026 term. At the helm is board chair John Van Heck, while David Argenti holds the position of vice chair.
First elected as a trustee in 2006, Van Heck has led the board as chair since 2016.
In a media release, Van Heck thanked his fellow trustees for placing their trust in him, noting challenges are ahead.
“We know this will be a challenging year for our board and for school boards across the province,” said Van Heck. “But we believe that, as locally elected trustees, we can best represent the interests of our constituents. We will continue to advocate
for this important form of governance, through our trustees’ association.”
It’s Argenti’s fourth term
as vice-chair, having been elected to the board in 2018.
“I am honoured to serve
as your vice chair for another term,” Argenti said in the release. “I will work with you and with our
chair as we support Catholic education in the St. Clair district and across Ontario.”
The Chatham Voice
Contributed image
David Argenti, left, and John Van Heck, right, will serve as vice-chair and chair of the St. Clair Catholic District School Board respectively. With them is director of education Lisa Demers.
Conservation merger looming
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Time is running out for citizens to have a say on the government’s plan to consolidate Ontario’s conservation authorities.
Bill 68, dubbed as the Plan to Protect Ontario Act, has already received Royal Assent in the Ontario Legislature. Included in the bill are provisions enabling the government to merge Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities into seven regional authorities. Under the legislation, the province will be also be creating a new overarching body called the Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency.
Final approvals would see the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority and the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority merged into the Lake Erie Regional Conservation Authority. Reaching all the way from the Grand River near Kitchener, to Grand Bend on Lake Huron, to Windsor, it would blend eight existing conservation authorities and include 81 municipalities. It is unknown how the current eight boards of directors will be governed in the future.
“It’s like living in the 90s all over again,” East Kent Coun.
John Wright told The Voice.
Wright was a member of Ridgetown council in 1998 when the province forced the consolidation of 22 municipalities to create Chatham-Kent.
“I don’t think it’s going to be good. They say they’re not going to cut staff but I think you have to read
between the lines. This is serious.”
The merger hasn’t been discussed at Chatham-Kent council yet, but it’s coming up on the agenda at the Dec. 15 meeting.
- Coun. John Wright
At least one Chatham-Kent councillor is against the merger.
“It looks like the same thing...I don’t think it’s going to be good,” he said.
“They say they’re not going to cut staff but I think you have to read between the lines.”
Wright suggests residents lobby the province to let officials know they don’t approve.
“This is serious,” Wright add-
ed.
Genevieve Champagne, LTVCA manager of conservation lands and services, said area residents can submit comments on the matter until Dec. 22. Those wanting to provide input are asked to access the Environmental Registry of Ontario online. For more information view:
LTVCA Board Resolution on Provincial Plan to Consolidate · Lower Thames
Proposed boundaries for the regional consolidation of Ontario’s conservation authorities | Environmental Registry of Ontario
PUBLIC NOTICE
INVITATION FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC INVITATION
Transport Canada’s Navigation Protection helps keep Canada’s navigable
In accordance with requirements of the Canadian notice that an application has been submitted
Registry Number NPP File Number
Transport Canada’s Navigation Protection Program (NPP) administers the Canadian Navigable Waters Act (CNWA) which helps keep Canada’s navigable waters open for transport and recreation.
INVITATION FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
Project (Please describe and status proposed
13944 2025-415664
In accordance with requirements of the Canadian Navigable Waters Act, Erieau Marina hereby gives notice that an application has been submitted to the Minister of Transport for the below work(s):
Transport Canada’s Navigation Protection Program (NPP) administers the Canadian Navigable Waters Act (CNWA) which helps keep Canada’s navigable waters open for transport and recreation
HOW TO COMMENT:
Registry Number 13944 NPP File Number 2025-415664
Project Description (Pleasedescribetheworktype,activityandstatus ofwork,i.e.,existing,orproposedwharf,dam,etc.)
In accordance with requirements of the Canadian Navigable Waters Act, Erieau Marina hereby gives notice that an application has been submitted to the Minister of Transport for the below work(s):
Dredging
Registry Number NPP File Number Project Description (Please describe the work type, activity and status of work, i.e., existing, or proposed wharf, dam, etc.)
HOW TO COMMENT:
Worksite Location (Please provide name of waterway, geographic coordinates, lot number, etc.)
Comments about the potential effect of this posting.
Worksite Location (Please provide name of waterway, geographic coordinates, lot number etc.)
We invite you to submit comments online (https://common-project-search.canada.ca/
Mouth of Erieau Marina Limited Erieau, ON
13944 2025-415664
HOW TO COMMENT:
Dredging Mouth of Erieau Marina Limited Erieau, ON
Comments about the potential effect of this work must be received in writing within 30 days of this posting.
indicated above in the search box, select Alternatively, comments can be mailed or Transport Canada - Navigation Protection 100 South Front Street, 1st Floor Sarnia, ON N7T 2M4
We invite you to submit comments online through the online Common Project Search site (https://common-project-search.canada.ca/). To do so, enter the registry number or the NPP file number indicated above in the search box, select the corresponding result, and follow the instructions. Alternatively, comments can be mailed or emailed to:
NPPONT-PPNONT@tc.gc.ca
Please include the NPP file number 2025-
Comments about the potential effect of this work must be received in writing within 30 days of this posting.
Transport Canada - Navigation Protection Program (NPP)
100 South Front Street, 1st Floor, Sarnia, ON N7T 2M4 NPPONT-PPNONT@tc.gc.ca
PLEASE NOTE:
We invite you to submit comments online through the online Common Project Search site (https://common-project-search.canada.ca/). To do so, enter the registry number or the NPP file number indicated above in the search box, select the corresponding result, and follow the instructions. Alternatively, comments can be mailed or emailed to:
• Comments will only be considered if they deadline. The Navigation Protection Program information on your comments
Please include the NPP file number 2025-415664 in any mailed or emailed correspondence.
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Transport Canada - Navigation Protection Program (NPP) 100 South Front Street, 1st Floor Sarnia, ON N7T 2M4
• Transport Canada does not publish comments mailed to the Navigation Protection Program rlen.tc.canada.ca/privacy-confidentialite
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NPPONT-PPNONT@tc.gc.ca
Please include the NPP file number 2025-415664 in any mailed or emailed correspondence.
• Transport Canada does not publish comments submitted through the Common Project Search site or mailed to the Navigation Protection Program (for more information refer to https://nwarrlen.tc.canada.ca/privacy-confidentialite).
PLEASE NOTE:
• However, comments submitted online subject to the Privacy Act and the Access Information and Privacy (ATIP) requests. confidential or sensitive information since https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board information/request-information.html).
• However, comments submitted online or by mail are considered public record. As such, they are subject to the Privacy Act and the Access to Information Ace and are accessible through Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) requests. This means the information you provide should not contain confidential or sensitive information since it could be disclosed (for more information refer to https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/ services/access-information-privacy/access-information/request-information.html).
• Comments will only be considered if they are in writing (electronic or mail) and received by the deadline. The Navigation Protection Program may communicate with you to obtain additional information on your comments
POSTED AT Chatham ______ ON __11
• Transport Canada does not publish comments submitted through the Common Project Search site or mailed to the Navigation Protection Program (for more information refer to https://nwarrlen.tc.canada.ca/privacy-confidentialite).
• However, comments submitted online or by mail are considered public record. As such, they are subject to the Privacy Act and the Access to Information Act and are accessible through Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) requests. This means the information you provide should not contain confidential or sensitive information since it could be disclosed (for more information refer to
Image courtesy Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority
The provincial government is heading towards a massive amalgamation of conservation authorities across the province.
Wish Trees light up in C-K
The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF) lit up their Christmas Wish Trees last week.
As part of the 36th Annual Christmas Wish Tree campaign, the foundation plugged in the tree at the Wallaceburg site on Margaret Avenue Dec. 3 and in Chatham Dec. 4. This long-standing holiday tradition invites
community members to honour or remember loved ones with a meaningful donation during this time of year, while also helping to strengthen health care at CKHA, foundation officials said. Proceeds from this year’s Christmas Wish Tree campaign will support CKHAF’s Highest Priority Needs Fund, which provides flexible, timely support for the hospital’s most urgent
equipment and program requirements. This fund ensures that the Foundation can act quickly and provide crucial support where it’s needed most. Current priorities at the hospital include ongoing investments in diagnostic imaging and mammography services at the hospital’s Chatham site, as well as continued progress on the Our Hospital, Our Future Redevelopment Project at CKHA’s Walla-
ceburg site, among other important initiatives. Each donation made to the Christmas Wish Tree campaign honours someone special and contributes to patient care across both CKHA sites. All names received are added to the Foundation’s online Honouree Wall, featured in weekly social media tributes, and included in a special Honouree Video shared at the end of the campaign.
“We’re grateful to see our community continue to embrace this beloved tradition year after year,” says Christine Mitchell, President & CEO of CKHAF, in a media release. “Every light on our Christmas Wish Trees represents someone who has left a lasting mark on our lives, and every donation helps make a meaningful difference for patients and families right here at home.
We look forward to welcoming everyone at this week’s ceremonies as we celebrate generosity, remembrance, and the joy of the season.”
Community members wishing to participate in this year’s campaign may donate online at www. ckhaf.ca/cwt2025, by phone at 519-436-2538, by mail, or in person at the Foundation offices in Chatham and Wallaceburg.
The Chatham Voice
Local EQAO numbers rise
The Chatham Voice
When it comes to the basics, Chatham-Kent’s two largest school boards are gaining ground.
That’s according to latest round of the Education Quality and Accountability (EQAO) test results recently released by the Ministry of Education.
At the Lambton Kent District School Board, significant improvements have been made in literacy with Grade 3 reading coming up 10 percentage points since 2022.
In the math department, scores also rose. Grade 6 math test increased by eight points over four years, while the number of Grade 9 students surged by 10 points.
In Ontario Secondary School Literacy Testing, the number of students achieving positive results rose by two per cent.
LKDSB director of education
Gary Girardi said the gains are made thanks to the collaborative efforts of parents, students and educators.
“These results are positive for our students and reflect the
incredible work happening at planning tables and in classrooms every day,” said Girardi in a media release. “Students and staff should be proud of these achievements.
St. Clair Catholic District School Board students showed significant improvements as well. In elementary, the largest gains were in the Grade 3 and Grade 6 reading results, with both showing a seven-per-cent gain over the previous assessment. Grade 3 and 6 writing also showed
Ag hall inducts 5
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Local leaders who are part of the bedrock of Chatham-Kent’s agri-food business were recently inducted into Kent Agricultural Hall of Fame.
John A. Jaques, Bryan and Shannon Prince, as well as Bill and Jean Sloane (posthumously) are honourees joining in 2025.
Held at Hidden Hills Golf & Country Club at Oungah Nov. 18, the event was attended by local councillors and Mayor Darrin Canniff.
Well known for growing asparagus in East Kent for more than four decades, Jaques’ contributions in the ag sector have benefitted farmers locally, in Ontario and in the rest of Canada. He has been an industry and sector leader in technological and policy advancements, as well as in the development of marketing strategies.
He’s also been a leader the creation of disaster coverage programs and sustainability initiatives.
Throughout his farming career, Jaques has hosted multiple farm tours for students and invested in numerous community organizations.
In addition, he has long been an advocate for the needs of local farmers giving many media interviews to inform the Canadian public about issues in the farming sector.
Notably, Jaques has helped develop the Net Income Stabilization Account program and the Self-Directed Risk Management plan for edible horticultural producers. In 1998, he received the Award of Merit from the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Grow-
ers, acknowledging his work in the sector. Renowned historians Bryan and Shannon Prince of North Buxton were also inducted at the ceremony. Both six-generation descendants of American slaves who fled to Canada for freedom, the married couple are Black history experts who have travelled the globe sharing the knowledge of their people. Both have been acknowledged for their prowess on the topic, earning many awards and accolades in Canada, the U.S. and around the world.
Continued on page 21
growth.
At the secondary level, Grade 9 math students scored eight percentage points over the previous year. Plus, under the OSSLT, 88 per cent of first-time eligible students were successful – three percentage points higher than last year, and three above the provincial average.
SCCDSB director of education
Lisa Demers praised both students and staff.
“St. Clair Catholic students have made important achievement gains on EQAO assessments,” Demers said. “The growth demonstrated that our work with students is making a difference and that our staff is committed to helping all students achieve.”
Community Events
Thursday, December 11, 2025:
• Retired Workers Chapter Meeting: 10:00am. Keep up to date with things going on in the community, pensions and benefits. Spouses are welcome. Unifor Local 127, 405 Riverview Dr., Chatham (lower board room).
• 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. 3:30-6:30pm.
• Join us every Thursday afternoon from 1-4pm at the Merlin Legion for a Music Jam. Donations welcome. Bring out your singing voice and instruments to have a great afternoon!!
• 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. Members & non-members welcome.
• Noon Hour Concerts of Seasonal Music. Stephanie Van Rooyen and Bill Sluys will perform from 12:15-1:00pm at Holy Trinity St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 81 Selkirk Street (at Victoria) Chatham. Come & relax from the bustle of the season, listen to seasonal music with local musicians. Bring your lunch, listen, come and go as you wish. Free admission.
• Last finger food night at the Tilbury Legion until January. 4 Stewart St.
• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 11am until 1:30pm. Daily specials and menu items available.
Friday, December 12, 2025:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Supper served 4:00-6:00pm. No orders after 5:30pm. Specials: ham & scalloped potatoes or fish & chips, $15.00 (HST included). Take out available, call: 519-351-8733 or 519351-5639. Fun Darts 7:00pm. Members & non-members welcome.
• Merlin Legion Scrumptious Merlickin’ Pork Chops $17.50. Scallop potato & hot veggie, plus dessert. Served from 4:30-7pm at Merlin Legion. Contact 519-689-4884 for more information.
Take outs also available.
• Darts at the Tilbury Legion at 7:00pm. 4 Stewart St, Tilbury.
• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 11am -1:30pm. Daily specials, fish & chips and menu items available. Friday night supper is a Chicken Parmagian dinner with pasta, Caesar salad and a bun. Dine ins $14 and Pickup &15. All meals are served at 6 pm. Please call 519-352-8291 to order.
Saturday, December 13, 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 10:00am-12 noon. Meat draws at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm ending with a 50/50 draw. Kitchen open 3:00pm-5:30pm. Come check out our menu. Entertainment by G.T.O. 4:30-9:30 p.m. Members & non members welcome.
• Cart and Bake Sale at the Tilbury Legion. 9am-2pm. Meat draw at the 3-5pm. 4 Stewart St, Tilbury.
Sunday, December 14, 2025:
• Calling all Veterans. The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham will be hosting a Buddy Check for all Veterans from 10:00am –12:00pm. Come enjoy a coffee and talk to other Veterans. This venue is for Veterans Only.
• The Jubilee Chorus in partnership with Loads of Love Zambia invites you to join them in celebrating the birth of Jesus through their presentation of “This Child Shall Be Our Peace: Canticles and Carols of Christmas” at St. Paul’s Church (450 Park Ave W Chatham). All donations collected from the offering in support of Loads of Love Zambia, which ministers to abused women and orphaned children, will be matched by generous donors so your gift will be multiplied!
• All you can eat Brunch at the Tilbury Legion. $15.00. 4 Stewart St, Tilbury.
• Two Creeks Indoors presents The Lights in the resonant sanctuary of Wheatley United Church, Talbot West, Wheatley. 2pm. David and Sharon will
bring you into the spirit of the season with music both popular and sacred. Admission by donation.
• Breakfast at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 9am until Noon. All meals are cooked to order. Everyone welcome.
Monday, December 15, 2025:
• Pepper at 7:00pm at the Tilbury Legion, 4 Stewart St, Tilbury.
Tuesday, December 16, 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. Get your Christmas present wrapped for free 2pm-4pm with a donation of canned goods or new toys for the community. Come play Euchre at 1:00pm or spend the evening playing shuffleboard or Euchre starting at 7:00pm. Members and non-members welcome.
Wednesday, December 17, 2025:
• Heart Buddies – A monthly get together. A chance to talk and share your experiences of Heart Surgery, Heart Issues, matters of the Heart. For more info call 519-354-0070 or visit www. thamesviewfht.ca.
• Games Night Drop-In at Bill’s Place, 2SLGBTQIA+ Community space, 48 Centre St., Chatham. You are welcome to bring a game or play what we have. 6:30pm.
• Chatham-Kent Coin Club meeting, John McGregor Secondary School Library (7pm – 8pm). 300 Cecile Ave Chatham. New Members and guests welcomed. We have members that collect Canadian, USA, and World coins and paper money. Gain knowledge and trends of the hobby. For more info contact President Jim Austin (President@CKCoinClub.com) (226-627-6789) ckcoinclub.com.
• Wabash Women’s Institute Euchre parties. Wabash Hall – 1 pm. Admission $5. Prizes/lunch/fun.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Daily special is meatloaf dinner. Get your Christmas present wrapped for free 2pm-4pm with a donation of canned goods or new toys for the community. Fun Darts at 7:00pm. Members & non-members welcome.
Fun Stuff
65. Longtime Braves pitcher Julio
67. Humor
69. Shawl
70. Preliminary patient assessment
CLUES DOWN
1. Animal disease
2. Commercial
3. Necklace material
4. Containers
5. A way to save for your future
6. Colorado Heisman winner Rashaan
7. Dipped down
8. Head injury (abbr.)
9. Lay about
10. Intestinal
CLUES ACROSS
1. Spiritual leaders
7. A type of solution
13. Fortified wine
14. Edible mollusk
16. They precede C 17. A way to compare 19. Government lawyer 20. “Game of Thrones” actor Ciaran
22. The eighth month (abbr.)
23. Very willing 25. __ ex Machina
26. Makes happy
28. Type of berry
29. A doctrine
30. Popular Dodge truck model
31. Dekagram
33. Naturally occurring solid
34. Company officer
36. Villains
38. Cricket frogs
40. Influential German psychologist
41. Endured
43. A female domestic
44. You can get stuck in one
45. Cigarette (slang)
47. Fiber optics network
48. Group of blood disorders (abbr.)
51. Employee stock ownership plan
53. Belonging to the bottom layer
55. Sound
56. MLB legend Hank
58. Very attractive person
59. Late beloved sportscaster Craig
60. South Dakota
61. Mocking
64. Symbol for gold
11. Opposite of yes
12. Caused to be loved
13. Spiritual leader of Islam
15. Businesslike
18. Not in
21. Number above the line in a fraction
24. An animal with its own day
26. Pouch
27. Swedish krona
30. Start over
32. Field flowers
35. Fourteen
37. A visual way to interact with a computer
38. Up-to-date
39. Campaigns
42. Touch lightly
43. “Boardwalk Empire” actress Gretchen
46. Violent seizure of property
47. Supporter of the Pope
49. Anxiety
50. Body fluid
52. One who’s faking it
54. Title of respect
55. Chilean city
57. City in central Japan
59. Silk garment
62. A form of dance
63. Automobile
66. The man
68. Justice Dept. head honcho
Answers page 23
Ag hall of fame
Continued from page 19
Both have received the Order of Canada, one of the nation’s top honours.
On the farming front, the Princes are devoted to preserving and advancing the agricultural heritage of Buxton and the surrounding Chatham-Kent region. In their efforts, the couple has expanded land that has deep ancestral roots. They’ve also served as pillars of the local farming community through advocacy, leadership and consistent involvement in local boards and community groups, leaving a lasting impact.
Their work extends beyond simply providing assistance –they actively promote sustain-
able and innovative practices to benefit farmers and environment by championing inclusion and standing up for the unique challenges faced by farmers of all backgrounds, breaking down systemic barriers that Black farmers face.
Part of the fabric of the Bothwell community, Bill Sloan Sr. and wife Jean, were instrumental in a variety of business endeavours, most notably raising and selling Christmas trees. Married in 1942, the couple worked tirelessly on the enterprise as they raised a family and expanded their land base to grow more trees. Many people across the region recall buying their Christmas trees from the Sloans. Eventually the couple
developed a cut-your-own-tree holiday experience, complete with fire pits, hot chocolate and wagon rides.
Throughout the years, many local people benefitted from seasonal employment at the Christmas tree operation.
As well, Jean was an avid artist who shared her love of nature through her paintings, and she would gather with others to foster her love of painting.
Printed on the back of the tree tags the Sloans sold, Bill Sr. printed the saying: “Any fool can try like me, but only God can grow a tree.”
Bill Sr. passed away in 2011, followed by Jean in 2013. The award was accepted by members of the Sloan family.
Bill Chan/Special to The Chatham Voice
A great horned owl peers down out of the branches of a maple tree in the O’Neill Nature Preserve in Chatham. It is part of a nesting pair.
Secession petition hits Queen’s Park
By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative
The Ridgetown Independent
A petition that began in September of 2024 by frustrated residents in Bothwell and Zone Twp. reached the floor in Queen’s Park recently.
Independent MPP Bobbi Ann Brady, from Haldi-
Quinten Lockwood Stonefish
mand-Norfolk, brought the petition to the floor, asking the provincial government to allow Zone Twp. to secede from Chatham-Kent and amalgamate as a lower-tier municipality in Lambton County.
The petition began as ‘coffee shop talk’ among residents who were frus-
29, Saturday, November 29, 2025 Badder Funeral Home
Eileen Kneebone
97, Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Badder Funeral Home
Jean McQuarrie
92, Thursday December 4, 2025 Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Mildred Mary Ann George 94, Thursday, November 27, 2025
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Robert Stacey
68, Monday, December 1, 2025 Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Marlee Fraser
74, Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
John Ernest Hackett
73, Wednesday, November 26, 2025 Life Transitions
Philippe Willie Boivin
82, Friday, November 28, 2025 Life Transitions
John C. Badder Funeral Home Thamesville - 519-692-4222 Badder Funeral Home & Reception Centre Dresden - 519-683-4444 Badder & Robinson Funeral Home Bothwell - 519-695-2716 Visit us: badderfuneralhome.com
245 Wellington St. W., Chatham 519-352-2710 alexanderandhoulefuneralhome.ca
trated by what they felt was the Municipality of Chatham-Kent’s lack of support for rural citizens and communities.
By December of last year, the petition was posted in several businesses in the Bothwell area.
Emery Huszka, a spokesperson for the group, did not say how many signa-
OBITUARIES
Michelle Perkins 52, Friday, November 28, 2025 Life Transitions
Debra Rosanne Lahey 71, Saturday, November 29, 2025 Life Transitions
William Todd Burke 68, Sunday, November 30, 2025 Life Transitions
Lynn Michelle Smith 61, Monday, December 1, 2025 Life Transitions
Brian Harold Muller 75, Monday, December 1, 2025 Life Transitions
Rose Alice Walters 77, Monday, December 1, 2025 Life Transitions
Annie Bisschop 85, Monday, December 1, 2025 Kendrick Funeral Home
Terrell "Terry" Frederick Wilson 75, Thursday, November 27, 2025 Nicholls Funeral Home
tures were collected, but a minimum of 300 is required by Parliamentary procedure to bring a petition to the floor.
“Whether we have 500 or 5,000, it doesn’t matter,” Huszka said. “We were very successful, thanks to the community papers that picked it (the story) up across the country.”
He said coverage of the petition opened “a good discussion.
“Municipal governance structures are good discussions, and we’re going to have an election, so this is a very timely discussion,” Huszka said, referring to the Oct. 2026 municipal election.
Huszka said Bothwell looks like “downtown Beirut” with the burnedout buildings from last January still standing.
Mary Ann Rothery 95, Monday, December 1, 2025 Nicholls Funeral Home
Harold Lloyd Haddock 81, Tuesday, December 2, 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home
Mirah Michelle Naegele Friday, November 21, 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home
Brody James Smyth 1, Wednesday, November 26, 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home
Paul Schmoldt
76, Friday, November 28, 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home
Ann Cox
86, Tuesday, December 2, 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home
John Robert Kean 74, Wednesday, December 3, 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home
Bob Little 73, Tuesday, December 2, 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home
See full obituaries at chathamvoice.com /obituaries
What fuelled the rush of residents signing the petition last December was Chatham-Kent council’s decision to eliminate dust control and reduce rural road service as savings in the 2025 budget deliberations, as well as talk about losing at least one local councillor in a proposed ward boundary restructuring.
Although it never made it to the deliberations, residents were also riled when the possibility of closing the Bothwell arena and library, as well as losing other basic services, was mentioned in a report to council in response to South Kent Coun. Ryan Doyle’s last-minute request to find 7.5 per cent in savings with reductions to seven departments during last year’s budget deliberations.
This year’s budget debate surrounding the dust suppressant, including administration’s recommendation to eliminate the process in 2026, did not go unnoticed by rural residents.
“Watching the budget deliberations was a really good indicator of that urban-rural split,” Huszka said. “There is still a real disconnect.”
“Ten months later, it’s still not cleared up, let alone rebuilt,” Huszka said. “There doesn’t seem to be a community advocate who really recognizes the importance of rebuilding Bothwell.”
“They lost the bank, the restaurant, the Beer Store and the liquor store ... I don’t know how much more we have to lose before we finally get some attention,” stated Huszka. “If they had a local council, it would have been a high priority.”
Zone Twp., which was once a part of Lambton County in the late 1800s, still enjoyed a strong relationship with Euphemia Twp, right up to amalgamation.
Huszka said that although the two townships sit on opposite sides of the Kent-Lambton county line, there is a history of co-operation with multiple shared projects, services and facilities, including fire service, community programming and an arena.
He also pointed out that the Moraviantown community was instrumental in the construction of the Bothwell Arena in 1972.
“Prior to Chatham-Kent, it was a co-operative neighbourhood,” said Huszka.
Huszka said the province’s “forced amalgamation” in creating the Municipality of Chatham-Kent had some issues that are still unresolved to this day.
“When we had a two-tier system, the second tier looked after those things that were important to rural Kent,” he said. “Now that we’re Chatham-Kent, we’re all supposed to be one big happy family.”
The plan was to give the petition to Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for the Lambton-Kent-Middlesex riding, but Huszka reached out to Brady to bring it to Queen’s Park.
“It’s not a snub, I talked to Steve to give him a heads up, he did offer to take it up,” Huszka said.
“But we figured it was better to have Bobbi Ann present because, when we talk about the process, generally you’re petitioning the government and Steve is a part of the government,” he said.
Classifieds
Obituary
Hurrell-Pollock, David
Christmas Trees
Douglas David Hurrell Pollock passed away in Chatham on Friday, November 21, 2025.
Born in Burlington, Ontario, David was the son of Jean Pollock and the late Wm. George Pollock. He will be missed by his siblings Dan (Beth) and Jean (Gregory), and nieces and nephews Perry (Erin), Cory (Jen), Candice (Cody), Skylar (Natasha), Sean, Michael, and Michelle, and great-nieces and nephews Madison, Jorja, Keira, Jill, Carson, Aubrey, Demi, Katarina, Marc, and Sadie. David graduated from John McGregor Secondary School and went on to St. Clair College. He then moved on to work as a Tool and Die Maker. Dave recently resided in London and was an avid and talented guitar player who enjoyed coin collecting, blues fests and other musical events, and going to the movies. David will be dearly missed by his many extended family, nieces, and nephews. Family will be remembering him privately. All services entrusted to Life Transitions Burial and Cremation
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Outdoor Storage
Christmas trees
Lessons
Announcement
Miller Christmas Trees! New Location: corner of Richmond and West St., Chatham. 11:00am-6:00pm. Call 519-437-1008 for more info. Christmas pots also available.
Chatham Baptist Chapel New Children’s Sunday School Has Opened! 11am each Sunday. **Free ride pick up available if needed. Call 519-354-1999. chathambaptistchapel.com
New Outdoor Storage 280 Colborne St. Fenced. Calls only 519-436-9149.
Help Wanted
Needed Immediately. Part-Time Cook, approximately 25hrs per week. Experience required. Also, needed, Casual Part-Time Cook Tuesdays to Saturday. email resume to: legionbranch642@ gmail.com. Phone 519-351-8733.
The Chatham Voice is looking for carriers in the areas of 1 - Henry O’Way 2 - Stanley, Water, Lansdowne 3 - St. Clair Estates 4 - Colborne 4 - Robertson, Buckingham, Tecumseh 5 - Craven, Coatsworth Email Michelle at michelle@chathamvoice.com or call 519-397-2020.
MORTGAGES / LOANS
Services
NEED GROUT CLEANING??
Call Alec! Over 25 years experience. We are local. Carpet & Area Rugs. Call now for Holiday Entertaining. 226-229-0451. email greenand spotless@gmail. com.
Puzzle Answers
CONSIGNMENT OR BUY: Wanted: Coin collections and silver coins. Call Paul 289228-2817. Wanted Wanted
Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-7278894.
Have non-restricted firearms? Fully licensed collector will pick-uppreserve history, don’t destroy it! Estates/private transactions welcome. Call 519-359-8705.
Sell your items in the Classifieds! Call 519-397-2020
Guitar Lessons available. Chording and picking. Phone 519-9172339.
For Sale
Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Ready-to-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-3543411
This Holiday Season
make room on your gift list for local kids like Easton. Want
Help local children reach their full
Easton is a joyful six-year-old with Level 3 autism who has been supported by the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent since he was just six weeks old.
From physiotherapy and speech therapy to music and dance programs, donor support has helped Easton take his first confident steps, find new ways to communicate, and experience sensory-friendly celebrations where he truly belongs.
“Without the Centre, I don’t know where we’d be,” says Easton’s mom, Hailey. “They’ve been there for everything. They’re our village.”
