Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
$1-million win for ’Burg man
The Chatham Voice
A Wallaceburg resident won $1 million in an August Lotto Max draw.
Brian Brownlee won the prize in the Aug. 19 draw.
Brownlee said he discovered his big win while checking his ticket at the store.
“I used the ticket checker and then asked the retailer to double-check for me,” he said in a media release.
“I went home and told my wife,
and she thought I had only won $1,000.”
The 80-year-old was stunned to learn he had actually won $1 million.
“I don’t have plans for this prize yet. Maybe we’ll complete some home renovations, and I’ll get some body work done on my truck,” Brownlee said.
The winning ticket was purchased at Circle K on McNaughton Avenue in Wallaceburg.
Face-to-face options for ratepayers
Municipal service desks have been reopened in three communities, expanding in-person services to rural Chatham-Kent.
Beginning Oct. 20, residents in Bothwell, Thamesville and Wheatley were once again able to access a variety of municipal services close to
home. The desks are located in each community’s C-K library branch.
Paying taxes and Entegrus utility bills and purchasing dog tags and bus passes are among the services offered. Residents can also apply for marriage licenses.
Service desk hours in Thamesville and Wheatley run on Mondays from 8:30
a.m. to 4 p.m. and in Bothwell on Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. All locations are closed from 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch. For more information on these services, call 311.
The Bothwell library is located at 320 Main St.; Thamesville’s is at 3 London Rd. and in Wheatley at 35 Talbot Rd. W.
Contributed image
Wallaceburg’s Brian Brownlee is $1 million richer after a recent lottery win.
The Chatham Voice
More info sent to feds over landfill fight
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
When it comes to the proposed York 1 dump project at Dresden, municipal officials hope the federal government is listening.
To that end, Chatham-Kent has submitted additional information to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC), clarifying information put forward by York1 with regard to the controversial proposal.
Along with reaffirming the municipality’s opposition, the letter from its external legal counsel states the project would require several planning approvals under Ontario’s Planning Act, including changes to zoning and the Official Plan.
The letter, outlining Chatham-Kent’s position, also states Ontario’s processes do not provide a full or adequate review of potential impacts on the environment or Indigenous rights, noting C-K continues to support a federal assessment under the Impact Assessment Act.
Plus, the statement contends information put forward by York1 Environmental Waste Solutions “incorrectly” suggests C-K supports the proposal and that Indigenous First Nation people have not raised concerns.
“Our residents and impacted Indigenous nations have raised serious concerns about the potential environmental and community impacts of this proposal,” said Mayor Darrin Canniff.
“We believe the federal review process is the right step to ensure those concerns are properly addressed and that the community has a transparent and fair say in this matter. Our role is to make sure the facts are clear and that the community’s interests are protected.”
However, in a response to the response on Oct. 17 – two days after the municipality’s press release, York1’s public relations firm said Chatham-Kent’s statement contains “several inaccuracies” about engagement with the municipality and local Indigenous communities.
In an email message, Laryssa Waler of Henley Strategies countered the municipality’s stance that York1 has “no meaningful consultation” since the company submitted its proposal.
“We have engaged the municipality repeatedly since 2021 – including meets and calls with the mayor, councillors and senior staff throughout 2022 and 2023,” Waler wrote, adding they have requested a meeting with Chatham-Kent and are waiting to hear back.
Waler also spoke to the Indigenous piece, stating the company met with WIFN officers in-person on June 6, 2024, after being contacted by them in May.
“We continue to invite dialogue with WIFN and other Indigenous communities,” Waler said. In the statement, Waler also said the Dresden site is being upgraded to “modern standards,” stressing the site will be accepting non-hazardous construction and demolition materials – not household garbage.
Chatham-Kent’s response to the IACC comes on the heels of a request from the IAAC for more information after the federal body was approached to place a comprehensive environmental assessment on the Dresden project. Originally, the province had agreed to place an EA on the landfill expansion, however, the Ford government reversed its decision.
Before the Ontario Legislature paused for summer break, the province passed Bill 5 in which
the York1 Dresden project was specifically named. The bill removed the EA, with Premier Doug Ford publicly stating the Dresden dump needed to go ahead in order to maintain Ontario’s landfill capacity, saying it could be curtailed by U.S. President Donald Trump if he closes the border to garbage. Currently, Ontario exports a substantial amount of waste to Michigan and New York.
Other issues clarified in the C-K submission include the fact that municipal council formally opposed the project in Feb. 24 and has not changed its position.
The legal letter also states no meaningful consultation has taken place between York1 and the municipality; and York1 has not even contacted the municipality since submitting its proposal to the province.
As well, several Indigenous communities, including Walpole Island First Nation and the Delaware Nation Council (Moravian on the Thames), have publicly expressed concerns about the project’s potential impacts.
The municipality has asked the federal government to designate the proposed facility for review under section 9(1) of the Impact Assessment Act, which would ensure that potential environmental and Indigenous concerns are carefully and independently assessed.
The letter from Cha-
tham-Kent to the IAAC is the latest wrinkle in the fight by the community and municipality to
Music for the Mind reaches $250,000 fundraising threshold in six years
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
Six years, $250,440.18 raised. Who says one person can’t make a difference?
Elisha Banks started Music for the Mind with the goal of running one concert to serve as a fundraiser in support of mental health services in Chatham-Kent…and she’s never looked back.
For Banks, it came after a 50-day stay in the in-patient mental health unit at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.
“I was there and saw a need on the unit and wanted to do my part to ensure people who ended up in a mental health crisis had access to just the daily essentials – hygiene products, clothing, activity books,” she said. “I saw a need and wanted to do what I could to help that unit.”
Consider that first concert the sprout of a fundraising effort that “got planted out of my own mental health experience” for Banks. Well, that sprout has grown into an entire tree of fundraising support.
Today, as Music for the Mind is into its seventh fundraising cycle, Banks and her team of volunteers run anywhere between 11 to 14 different events or fundraising efforts “of all different shapes and sizes” each cycle. From concert events featuring local bands, to an annual beach volleyball tournament, to a Christmas online auction, to bottle and can drives, the funds flow in different ways.
“We just try to plan a variety of different fun fundraising events that get the community involved,” she explained. The events are also havens for conversations about mental health, “It should not be a taboo topic. You can talk about mental health; it’s OK to talk about it,” Banks said. “It’s as important to have those conversations about it (mental health) as your physical health.”
Through it all, Banks said the success if powered by volun-
said. “Initially, I thought it was a one-time concert – raise money for mental health support in the community and raise awareness about the importance of mental health. But here we are still going strong and still having the amazing support from this community.”
teers and community support.
“We have a small team, but it is so strong. We’re like a family,” she said. “I have the same volunteers who show up event after event after event. They always step up. They are the backbone of Music for the Mind. Without them, these events don’t happen.”
The same goes for the support from the people of Chatham-Kent.
“Thanks to the community, the people, the businesses for making Music for the Mind possible; for making it possible to reach that milestone of $250,000 raised for mental health,” she said. “The bands…all the bands who have played at our events; they make it possible for us to continue the work we do. They give it their all.”
Banks said she believes the community sees the need for added supports for mental health services beyond what senior levels of government fund. And it’s a need that is not going away.
“It’s very obvious that the mental health crisis we are in right now is not getting better; it’s not going away. Since the pandemic, we’ve really seen an increase in mental health struggles. There’s an impact
on people and the community when there is a lack of mental health funding and resources,” she said.
As mentioned, the six years of fundraising included the Covid pandemic. Banks said Music for the Mind had to quickly pivot to continue to raise funds in 2020 when the pandemic hit.
“We navigated fundraising through a pandemic by moving as many things as we could online, and planning our concert outdoors for Boonies Drive-In (near Tilbury),” she said. “The money was needed then more than ever. Everyone’s mental health was being impacted by the pandemic. I just knew there was going to
be high demand for mental health services through the pandemic and afterwards.”
Music for the Mind raised $60,000 that year alone.
The organization initially raised funds for the Foundation of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance. Several years ago, it transitioned to focus on Family Service Kent and its KIDS Team Program, as well as the Children’s Treatment Centre and Foundation of Chatham-Kent.
Banks looks back and is “blown away” by how far her project has come.
“I could never have imagined that Music for the Mind would still be up and operating going on seven years now,” she
Image courtesy Tanya Sinnett Photography Music for the Mind’s Elisha Banks celebrates the organization recently reaching the $250,000 fundraising milestone in support of mental health services in Chatham-Kent.
Opinion
Give the gift of your time
Let’s celebrate the power of peo ple, and the ongoing need for even more volunteers.
The people of Chatham-Kent are in many ways amazing. Forget the social media trolls. We’re talking about the givers of C-K. They are legion.
But there’s still room for more in the ranks, as the need is great.
Check out our story on page 8, “Driven to help,” where three organizations in the area are in search of additional volunteer drivers. Family Service Kent, the Canadian Cancer Society and its Wheels of Hope program, and NeighbourLink are all looking for a few more good men and women to get behind the wheel and help people get to and from vital services.
As mentioned, giving is incredible here. C-K residents should take pride in their support of the many charities and areas of need they donate funds and time towards.
Monetary donations are always appreciated. But sometimes, the gift of time can be priceless. If you have free time, we urge you to consider helping drive others to and from their
appointments with NeighbourLink, the Cancer Society and/ or Family Service Kent. You can drive as much, or as little, as you want. Compensation comes in the form of paid mileage or gas cards.
Who knows, you might just meet new friends in the process. At the very least, you will help those in need.
And for those of you who think one person can’t make a difference, we point to the one and only Elisha Banks, founder of Music for the Mind. Banks started that organization to help raise funds in support of local mental health supports. It began as a notion to hold one fundraising concert.
That was more than six years and $250,000 ago.
Yes, Banks has a small group of volunteers helping her and the community – including local businesses and bands – have rallied around her. But it all started with one person. Each one of us can make a difference. All we have to do is volunteer our time to support others. That kind of giving is contagious.
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).
The Chatham Voice reserves the right to edit letters to the editor for brevity and clarity. All letters need to be signed.
Chatham Voice advertising policy
The publisher of this newspaper, CK Media Inc., reserves the right to clarify or refuse any advertisement based on its sole discretion. The publisher reserves the right to reject, discontinue or omit any advertisement without notice or penalty to either party. Liability for errors or non-insertion is limited to the amount paid for the cost of space occupied by the error. Claims of errors must be made prior to the next publication date.
519-397-2020
Reasons to quit
Editor: The addiction problem is a difficult problem to wrap one’s head around, especially if you are an addict. I had an addiction to alcohol. I went to A.A. and with the help of a group and a sponsor and books and meetings I have been “clean” ever since.
The years went on and I found my higher power, and 44 years later I am still an alcoholic, but I am still in recovery because one drink will start me off again and it would be as if I had never stopped drinking. I wanted to stop because I did not want my nine-year-old son to realize that I was drunk. Maybe we all need a reason to stop doing what hurts us.
I was still smoking and all my relatives were on my case to stop. I lost two husbands to smok-
ing-related illness – one cancer and one emphysema (COPD) – but I could not stop and then my brother told me about the Nicorette inhaler. I had just bought a carton of cigarettes but told myself I would stop after they were finished.
with my inhaler, but in a good way, and encouraged me to keep it up. I never touched a cigarette again and managed to throw the inhalers away after six months.
I was in a grocery store and right inside the door was a display of Nicorette products. There was an inhaler with capsules to use. I picked one up and put it in my basket.
As soon as my carton was gone, I tried the inhaler; it was not the nicotine so much as the hand to mouth issue that had me stuck.
I had been smoking less but needed more help and my reason was I did not want to die of cancer or emphysema.
Friends laughed at me
All addictions are hard to beat. Luckily, I never got into drugs and my smoking addiction was dealt with 21 years ago. It is possible to give up all addictions, even coffee (just drink a very dark roast which has little caffeine).
I don’t know how to help those addicted to drugs. Perhaps to encourage, support and possibly give them a reason to quit.
Ignoring the problem is not the answer.
Bridget Goldsmith Chatham
Casino-hosting cash flows
The Chatham Voice
Hosting a gambling house continues to earn the municipality cash. As a host community for Cascades Casino Chatham, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent recently received a payment
of $461,614, cashing in on some of the revenues from the second quarter of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation’s (OLG) fiscal year. Over the first six months of the fiscal year, April 1 to Sept. 30, the municipality has pocketed
$936,606. Since the Dresden Slots opened back in April 2001 and operations eventually shifted to Chatham, the municipality has received nearly $20.5 million from the OLG.
The payments to host communities are based
on a formula in the Municipality Contribution Agreement that is consistently applied across all land-based casino sites in Ontario using a graduated scale of gaming revenue at the hosted site, according to OLG officials.
“Chatham-Kent is able
to offer local programs and improve the quality of life of our residents through the economic activity generated through revenue from Cascades Casino Chatham,” said Trevor Jones, MPP for Chatham-Kent–Leamington, in a media release.
DID THANKSGIVING FEEL DIFFERENT?
You might not be able to pinpoint exactly when things changed, but this Thanksgiving, you noticed. Mom seemed quieter. Dad forgot a few details. Maybe they looked a little more tired, or the house didn’t feel quite as cared for as it once did.
These moments can weigh heavily. You tell yourself they’re managing, but deep down, you wonder if they’re really okay. For many adult children, the holidays bring these quiet realizations, and with them, a new kind of worry.
At The St. Angela’s Meadow Lodge, we understand how difficult these experiences can be to navigate. It’s not just about logistics or care. It’s about love, trust, and wanting the very best for your family. We appreciate that considering retirement living is a big decision, and as a result, your loved one may be quick to say, “I’m not ready yet.” But in our experience, that often means they’re not sure what to expect, or are afraid of losing the life they love.
That’s why a visit can change everything.
When you step into St. Angela’s Meadow, you’ll see that our Lodge isn’t a “facility,” but a warm, welcoming community where residents live life on their own terms. Here, days are filled with friendship, chef-prepared meals, cozy firesides, and meaningful connections. Independence is encouraged, support is always close at hand, and families find comfort knowing their loved ones are safe, happy, and thriving.
“The people of Ontario benefit from OLG’s gaming revenues as 100 per cent of OLG profits are reinvested in the province to support provincial priorities.”
Before the snow flies and the added stress of winter arrives, why not consider visiting our team?
We’re here to listen, answer your questions, and help you explore what this next chapter could look like, at your own pace, and without pressure.
Sometimes, the best place to start is to see what’s possible. Let’s talk about what comes next, together.
St. Angela’s Meadow Retirement Lodge 20 Merici Way, Chatham, ON. (519) 352-5225
Driven to help
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Three local agencies have teamed up in an effort to entice new volunteer drivers to their ranks.
The collaboration, including Family Service Kent, NeighbourLink and the Canadian Cancer Society’s Wheels of Hope, is looking to recruit drivers who can offer a lift to someone in need.
Seniors and low-income residents, people with disabilities
and individuals facing cancer treatment and recovery are among those who rely on volunteers to drive them to a range of services – from medical appointments to grocery shopping.
According to Family Service Kent volunteer and wellbeing co-ordinator Marjorie Crew, the unique partnership between agencies is an effort to “drive” volunteer recruitment in the community.
Similar to other agencies, volunteer drivers are in demand at FSK.
“The need for volunteers has grown, but our efforts to gain volunteers in this area have not kept pace for all our agencies,” Crew said in a media release. “Therefore, we decided to join together in a campaign to share our opportunities for volunteer driving and the impact it has.”
Canadian Cancer Society volunteer recruiter
Mark Kahan, who started as a volunteer driver with the organization, said being a driver is rewarding.
“I was really humbled by how grateful people are to a stranger for driving them to an appointment,” Kahan told The Voice. “If you volunteer with us, you are literally making a difference...if someone can’t find a ride to treatment, for example, they don’t go.”
According to Kahan, C-K’s
IT’S TIME TO DUCK THE RUST!
Wheels of Hope only has five volunteer drivers at present and they’d like to add another 10 to give regular drivers a break.
“We want to ensure that everybody in C-K who needs a ride will get one,” he added, noting demand will rise as cold weather approaches.
It’s the same story at NeighbourLink, said office administrator Katrina Nydam, noting the agency is sometimes unable to fill ride requests as there are no drivers.
“For people who have time during the day, this is a great way to help people in need,” Nydam explained.
In the six-month period from January to June 2025, NeighbourLink provided 370 rides to people in need, including 53 rides outside of Chatham-Kent, mainly for medical treatments.
Each of the non-profits have their own training and support programs for new drivers, with flexible scheduling allowing volunteers to drive as much or as little as they like. Volunteers use their own vehicles and are reimbursed for mileage or provided with fuel gift cards.
To find out more about available volunteer opportunities, contact Family Service Kent at 519-354-6221 or by email at volunteer@familyservicekent.com; NeighbourLink at 519-352-5647 or on the webpage; and CCS Wheels of Hope online at volunteer@cancer.ca.
Image courtesy Metro Creative Graphics
A trio of local support agencies – Family Service Kent, NeighbourLink and the Canadian Cancer Society’s Wheels of Hope – need more volunteer drivers. These drivers help take clients to and from a variety of services, including medical appointments and the grocery store. They also become part of a client’s social fabric in many cases.
CKIFF set for this weekend
Film festival to feature 37 different films between Oct. 24 and 26
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
The Chatham-Kent International Film Festival
marks its seventh year Oct. 24-26.
To be held at Chatham’s Kiwanis Theatre, the 2025 edition showcases 37 different films including five
features and two documentaries.
Festival co-directors
Robert Bellamy and Kristina Garant said this year’s submissions are
heavily focused on Canadian and Ontario content.
“It’s nice to see all of the talent here in Ontario,” Garant told The Voice in a recent interview.
“It’s nice to see all of the talent here in Ontario. I hope people will come out and enjoy it.”
a local flourish thanks to a submission from Walpole Island First Nation director Eva Thomas.
- Organizer Kristina Garant
“I hope people will come out and enjoy it.”
Wilton Sales Rep 519-437-7564
According to Bellamy, the festival grows a little more each year, expanding its offerings to local film buffs.
The festival will close out Sunday at 6 p.m. with
Titled Nika and Madison, the Canadian crime thriller is making its world premiere. The film tells the story of two Indigenous girls following a fateful encounter with police that causes them to re-examine their friendship.
While there is a focus
on home-grown talent, Bellamy said the festival also features entries from across the globe, including Oversteer from Singapore and an English thriller called The Caretaker. The festival will also pay homage to Halloween Oct. 25 with a special screening of the Nightmare on Elm Street on at 10 p.m. Cost is $10 for the show and festival goers are invited to dress in costume for the event. Day passes are $10 for Friday and $15 per day on Saturday and Sunday. A weekend pass can be purchased for $40. Passes can be purchased through CKTickets.com or on the film festival’s website. The festival’s full program can be viewed online.
Dome sweet dome
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
No matter how you slice it, Chatham’s new tennis dome is serving in style. Officially dubbed the Chatham-Kent Racquet Centre, the four-court facility is a dream come
true for players and organizers alike – particularly for Stephanie and Mark Chapados.
Stephanie, wife of competitive player and coach Mark, said it all began eight years ago when she wanted to find a way to help her husband.
Continued on page 12
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Addison Alfonso of Windsor faces off against Noelle Edgar of Petrolia in the SWOSSA tennis championships held in Chatham last week. The tournament marked the first official event at Chatham’s newly minted tennis dome on Bear Line.
Raquet-eers enjoy the indoors
Continued from page 11
He needed a way to keep his game sharp during the winter months.
Normally, that meant Mark had to travel to a bigger centre when the cold weather hit. But with the advent of Chatham’s dome, the Chapados and other tennis aficionados
can play the game yearround right at home.
“Mark’s in heaven,” Chapados said of her spouse recently. “He’s excited he can play more tennis and he’s happy he doesn’t have to drive to London anymore to play indoor tennis.
“It’s a total dream come
true,” she added. “We never thought this would happen. It’s a total pinchme moment. “
The dome, which opened Oct. 1 at St. Clair College Community Park, hosted its first official event with South Western Ontario Secondary Schools Athletic Associa-
tion (S.W.O.S.S.A.) tennis championships taking place last week. The dome provided indoor space for the boys’ and girls’ doubles matches.
Feedback at the event was overwhelmingly positive, Chapados explained, noting players, coaches and spectators are all im-
pressed.
Ursuline College Chatham educator Troy Biskey, assistant to Pines’ tennis coach Paul Evans, is upbeat about the facility.
“I think it’s fantastic,” Biskey said, noting the dome puts Chatham-Kent’s tennis opportunities on par with big cities like Toronto
and Ottawa.
“It’s just good to see young and old being able to experience something like this,” he added.
Robert Pollock, C-K’s director of parks, recreation and facilities, agreed that the dome is generating solid feedback.
Continued on page 13
Every October, Children’s Aid Societies across Ontario raise awareness about the important role that individuals and communities play in supporting vulnerable children, youth, and families through the provincial Dress Purple Day campaign.
We are calling on all Ontarians to wear something purple to show children, youth, and families that they are here to help!
Ontario Dress Purple Day, is a day of action to raise awareness about the community’s responsibility to look after children and youth. Communities across Ontario will go purple and collectively speak up to share the message that children and youth have a right to safety and well-being and that help is available. Adults need to step in and help children and youth who are dealing with neglect, physical and sexual abuse, gender-based violence, dating violence and emotional abuse, including racism, intolerance, prejudice and discrimination. This right applies everywhere – at home and in the community. All Ontarians are being called upon to wear something purple, so let’s turn Chatham-Kent purple to show our kids, youth and families facing challenges how much we care!
Learn more about how you can support the campaign at www.oacas.org/dresspurpleday
Tennis, pickleball head indoors at new facility
Continued from page 12
“So far, what we’ve heard has been great,” Pollock told The Voice, adding everyone is excited about the park’s many possibilities.
“It’s great for Chatham and for Chatham-Kent as a whole,” he added. “It’s great to be able to bring back indoor tennis (formerly held at The Wheels), plus all the other new amenities.”
According to Chapados, the dome’s schedule is filling up. Several couples are coming for “date nights” she said, with one local husband and wife team hitting the court to celebrate their 19th anniversary.
Demand has been “amazing,” Chapados said, noting new programs are now opening up.
Pickleball players are also accommodated at the dome. A special mat is laid out over each tennis court, transforming them into pickleball courts.
Community members interested in seeing the dome are invited to attend an open house Oct. 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. FreeHelpCK will be onsite hosting a charity
barbecue and there will be stuff for kids to do as well as free tennis activities. Various raffles will also be held, including one that supports tennis in local high schools.
Numerous membership options are available at the dome. Fees can be paid monthly, with higher prices in the winter months.
An array of programming is offered to young players, ages four and up, and to adult and high-performance players.
The dome is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends.
However, Chapados said you don’t have to be a member to play, as fees can be paid on a per diem basis.
“If you are going to play tennis more than three times a month, the value is for the membership,” she said.
ing from Tennis Clubs of Canada.
Plans are in the works to begin Phase 2 of the park next year. This will include adding 10 outdoor pickleball courts; a washroom/changeroom/ locker facility; two basketballs courts; walking paths and a small playground area and maintenance shed.
Phase 3 will include a cricket pitch and soccer/ rugby fields.
St. Clair College Community Park, a 20-acre parcel of land on Bear Line, was donated by the college to the municipality for use as a park. Funding for the project comes by way of the municipality’s capital projects budget.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent chipped in $200,000 for the dome. Tennis Canada and Rogers contributed a combined $200,000. The Chapados undertook private fundraising for the build, with the remainder com-
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
The four-court Chatham-Kent Racquet Centre on Bear Line is a dream come true for players and organizers alike.
Diwali takes place
Oct.
25
The Chatham-Kent Asian Cultural Association’s annual Diwali Festival of Lights Event is just around the corner.
Featuring music, dancing and an overall cultural celebration, the festival takes place from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Oct. 25 at Ursuline College Chatham.
The Chatham-Kent Asian Cultural Association (CKACA) is inviting residents of all backgrounds to join in the vibrant celebration of the festival.
This free annual event brings together families, friends, and neighbours for
Get screened for breast cancer
Regular screening for breast cancer saves lives.
And it’s never been easier, according to officials at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.
that eligible individuals aged 40 to 74 can now self-refer online to any of the 12 screening sites in the Erie St. Clair region, including CKHA.
an evening of dance, music, art, and cultural connection. From traditional instrument performances to energetic group dances, the program reflects the rich diversity and joyful spirit of Diwali, a festival that celebrates light, hope, and togetherness, organizers said in a media release.
GiRi Thommandram, a senior committee member and official spokesperson of CKACA, said, “Diwali is more than a festival. It’s a moment to gather, reflect, and celebrate the light we bring to each other’s lives. We’re proud to share this joy with the entire Chatham-Kent community.”
That’s the message the CKHA is hoping to impart to the public to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“CKHA encourages everyone eligible to get screened – it’s a simple step that can make a life-saving difference,” a recent CKHA media release stated. “Early detection is one of the most effective ways to improve outcomes and save lives.”
Recent updates to the Ontario Breast Screening Program mean
Appointments can be booked directly at CKHA at 519-437-6089. This booking line is monitored Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to noon.
Hospital staff have been showing their support for breast health in the community this month by “Wednesdays, We Wear Pink!”, organized by the Erie St. Clair Regional Cancer Program.
A total of 3,073 mammograms were performed at CKHA in the last fiscal year.
The Chatham Voice
The Chatham Voice
Contributed image Chatham-Kent–Leamington MP Dave Epp and Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff take part in the 2024 Diwali Festival of Lights put on by the Chatham-Kent Asian Cultural Association.
Community Events
Thursday, October 23, 2025:
• Join us every Thursday afternoon for a Jam Session at the Merlin Legion. Everyone welcome between 1–4pm and consider staying for an early dinner! Donations are welcome so bring your singing voice or musical instrument.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Everyone welcome.
• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 85 Richmond St from 11am1:30pm. Daily specials and menu items available. Everyone welcome.
Friday, October 24, 2025:
• The Haunted Museum. 7-9pm. $5.00 per person. Wallaceburg and District Museum. 505 King Street, Wallaceburg.
• 6:30pm - Join CK Pride at Bill’s Place, 2SLGBTQIA+ community space at 48 Centre St, Chatham for the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show & Costume Party!
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open 11:00am-1:30pm. Supper 4:00-6:00pm. No orders after 5:30pm. Cabbage rolls or fish & chips, $15.00(HST included). Take out available by calling 519-3518733 or 519-351-5639. 5:15pm is our weekly Catch-The-Ace draw (tickets can be purchased at the bar). Fun darts start at 7:00pm. Everyone welcome.
• The Merlin Legion is serving a pulled pork dinner from 4:30-7pm. Takeouts also available and price is $13. Please join us!! Call 519-689-4884.
• Cemetery Strolls at Maple Leaf Cemetery with ghost stories in the oldest part of the cemetery. 7pm or 7:30pm. Tickets at www.eventbrite.com. isit our Facebook page, “Ghost Walks of Chatham-Kent” or ckghostgirl@gmail.com.
• All you can eat Sliders and 2 pieces of Chicken $20.00 at the Tilbury Legion. 5:00pm-6:30pm. Open Darts: 7pm. 4 Stewart St, Tilbury.
• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 11am-1:30pm. Daily specials and menu items available. Friday night supper at the Lodge is a Honey Garlic Chicken dinner with potatoes, vegetables, coleslaw and a bun. Dine ins $14 and pickups $15. All meals are served at 6pm. Please call 519-3528291 to order. Everybody welcome.
Saturday, October 25, 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.
• 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, find out about our programs and upcoming events. No RSVP needed! Come & go as you please. All ages & allies welcome. 11am-2pm.
• Join local nutrition consultant and retired pharmacist, Carmel Marentette, to learn ways to improve your general health and well-being by focusing on digestive health. The information session will be presented at the Chatham Branch of the CKPL. Registration is not required. Free event at 6:00 pm.
• The Haunted Museum. 7-9pm. $5.00 per person. Wallaceburg and District Museum. 505 King Street, Wallaceburg.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 10:00am-9:30pm. Line Dancing lessons from 10:00am-12 noon. The Ladies Auxiliary will be hosting BIG meat draws at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open 3:00pm-5:30pm. Come out and check out our menu. Halloween Dance with entertainment by DAM band from 4:309:30pm. Everyone welcome.
• St. Thomas Anglican Church is celebrating 150 years at 11:15am. Please join us for a service and fellowship meal afterwards. 7077 Grand River Line. Looking for ancestors from St. Thomas Anglican Church. Let’s honour the families who built our little country church on the river 150 years ago.
• Meat Draw with extra prizes 3-5pm at the Tilbury Legion. One pound chicken wings $10.00. Line Dancing 5:30-6:30 and 7:00–8:00pm. 4 Stewart St, Tilbury.
• The Chatham-Kent Asian Cultural Association (CKACA) is inviting residents of all backgrounds to join in the vibrant celebration of Diwali – The Festival of Lights, taking place from 7:00-10:00pm at Ursuline College, 85 Grand Ave W, Chatham. This free annual event brings together families, friends, and neighbours for an evening of dance, music, art, and cultural connection. Interested guests may also enjoy a festive dinner before the main event. The dinner part of the event needs to be reserved. For more information, residents can write to ckaca.events@gmail.com.
Sunday, October 26, 2025:
• Classic Country Jamboree at the Merlin Legion from 1:30-5:30 followed by a Oktoberfest sausage dinner with sauerkraut and all the fixings for only $13! Bring your singing voice, dancing shoes & enjoy the tunes of the Marquis. Please call Lori at 519-476-5870 to book your spot to help plan dinners.
• Allison Brown & Mike Houston perform classic country, bluegrass fiddle and folk music. Wheatley United Church. 2:00-4:00pm. Donations to Two Creeks Conservation Area appreciated.
• Music of Thanksgiving and Praise. An afternoon program of hymn singing and instrumental selections. 3:00pm at Holy Trinity St. Paul’s Anglican Church. 81 Selkirk St., Chatham. Freewill offering to Chatham Outreach for Hunger.
• Breakfast at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 9amNoon. All meals are cooked to order. Everyone welcome.
Tuesday, October 28, 2025:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Come play Euchre at 1:00pm or spend the evening playing Shuffleboard or Euchre starting at 7:00pm. Everyone welcome.
• Lions Club Info Night. If you are interested in learning about Lions returning to Blenheim, join us for a free info meeting at 7pm at Blenheim Masonic Community Hall, 124 Marlborough St S Blenheim. For info call 519-354-1836.
• New Curler Open House at the Chatham Granite Club: find out about curling opportunities for this coming season. Young and old, are welcome. 6pm-8pm. 41 William St N, Chatham. 519-352-4324. chathamgraniteclub@ gmail.com.
Wednesday, October 29, 2025:
• Join CK Pride for the hilarious adults-only Cards Against Humanity night. Bill’s Place, community space, 48 Centre St., Chatham. 6:30pm.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Our daily special is Meatloaf Dinner. Come check out our other daily specials. We have Fun Darts at 7:00 p.m. Everyone welcome.
Send your not-for-profit event to bruce@chathamvoice.com or michelle@chathamvoice.com
Fun Stuff
59. Look angry or sullen
60. Bird’s beak
61. Taco ingredient
62. Square measures
63. Google certification (abbr.)
64. Singer Hansard
CLUES DOWN
1. Pubs
2. Wings
3. Popular BBQ dish
4. Small sponge cake
5. Open-roofed entrance halls
6. Organize anew
7. Type of wine
CLUES ACROSS
1. Remark
5. Upper body part
8. Expression of dismissiveness
12. Alternate name
14. Popular beverage
15. Swiss river
16. Step-shaped recess
18. Rocker Stewart 19. Bright shade of color
20. Popular “street” 21. Wrath 22. Heat units 23. Nocturnal omnivorous mammals
26. Fall back into 30. Remove from the record
31. Sound a splash made
32. Popular Dodge pickup model
33. Jamaican river
34. Notable event in Texas history
39. Cool!
42. Subset of Judaism
44. Newly entered cadet
46. Duct in urinary system
47. Exterminator
49. Snatch quickly
50. Have already done
51. Less healthy
56. Therefore
57. What couples say on the altar
58. Mysteriously
8. Forums
9. North Atlantic islands (alt. sp.)
10. Pond dwellers
11. Large integers
13. Signaled
17. Brief
24. Type of student
25. Tibetan monasteries
26. Revolutions per minute
27. NY Giants great Manning
28. Local area network
29. Residue from burning
35. Illuminated
36. Vasopressin
37. Notable space station
38. Wood sorrel
40. Adhering to laws
41. Chose
42. Hovel
43. Stood up
44. European city
45. Works ceaselessly
47. Mistake
48. Sun-dried brick
49. Sicilian city
52. A steep rugged rock or cliff
53. Murder
54. Other
55. “Deadpool” actor Reynolds
Answers on page 19
Local writer’s vision to hit stage
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
In little more than a month, Chatham’s Alan Edmunds is set to experience his Perfect World, as he shares it with others.
Edmunds is the driving force behind the musical “Perfect World,” which will be performed in Santa Barbara, Calif. In November at the El Porta Theatre.
The story is based on the life of writer Barbara Follett, who went from child prodigy writer to, well, nothing, actually.
On Dec. 7, 1939, it appears Follet simply walked out on her life.
She was never seen again. Edmunds came across Follett’s story while working as a professor at the University of Western Ontario. A member of the Faculty of Education, he taught courses that included educational psychology, special education, and giftedness.
While doing some general research, Edmunds was exposed to Follett’s story. He quickly realized it was something special and needed to be shared.
“I was a faculty member at Western for 22 years. During the latter part of my career, my research was on young children who wrote like adults,” he recalls. “I quite by accident found out about this nervous little girl. She’d written two acclaimed novels before the age of 14.”
But by the age of 25, Follett simply disappeared. She reportedly walked out of her marriage and her apartment and vanished.
“I wanted to tell her story,” Edmunds said. “She was a superbly creative, imaginative young girl. And then there is the compelling story of her disappearance.”
Edmunds began writing the musical tale in 2010.
“I came across an amazing story of an amazing girl. I just said, ‘This sounds like a musical to me,’” he said. “So I did it.”
His subject, Follett, began writing using a typewriter at age four. By age eight, she had started to write what would eventually become “The House Without Windows” as a birthday present to her mother. A fire destroyed the original manuscript and Follett had to begin anew. At age 12, she had the book published.
About a year later, her second book, “The Voyage of the Norman D.,” was released. Follett’s parents split up shortly afterwards, and the family fell on hard times. Her marriage experienced ups and downs as well.
Set in the 1920s and ’30s, Perfect World’s universal themes
are about chasing your dream and striving toward a better world. As her journey unfolds, Follett slowly transforms from young hopeful idealist to skeptical downtrodden adult. Her resilience and resolve are often tested, but it is her deep love for others that ultimately betrays her, Edmunds said.
While the story essentially wrote itself, it certainly didn’t rewrite itself.
Edmunds said he has performed in, written and produced numerous shows at the community theatre level, but Perfect World will be his first higher profile effort.
He credits the aid of composer Richard Winzeler with helping to bring it together.
After years of working on the script, Edmunds began his hunt for a composer. That took about two years. He said he made the right choice in working with Winzeler.
“I wrote the book and am a co-lyricist,” Edmunds said. “Richard had a lot of good suggestions.”
The two took the musical as far as table reading in 2019. They were gearing up to forge ahead when Covid struck, putting every-
thing on pause.
The efforts resumed in 2022, with a stage reading in London, Ont. A year later, the two
were in New York looking for a producer. After that, the search was on for a venue.
Continued on page 18
Alan Edmunds
Fall harvest continues
Hunter Bros. hitting Chatham for Nov. 7 show
The Chatham Voice
The Hunter Brothers are bringing their Homegrown Nights show to Chatham’s Kiwanis Theatre Nov. 7.
Hailing from Saskatchewan, the five siblings – including J.J., Dusty, Luke, Brock and Ty – have racked up more than 90 million music streams becoming known for their dynamic stage presence, chart topping singles and heartfelt connection with
OBITUARIES
Antonio do Forno
90, Sunday, October 12, 2025 Hinnegan Peseski Funeral Home
Patricia Joyce Reist
86, Thursday, October 2, 2025 Badder Funeral Home
Blake Swackhammer
Friday, September 26, 2025 Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Jackie Curtis
77, Monday, October 13, 2025 Blenheim Community Funeral Home
John Klassen
49, Saturday, October 11, 2025 Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Shirley Rayment
96, Tuesday October 14, 2025
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Betty Nicholson
93, Wednesday, October 15. 2025
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Clarence Ray Conlin
83, Saturday, October 11, 2025 Life Transitions
Robert Arthur Johnston
92, Monday, October 13, 2025 Life Transitions
Francis Delmer LaMarsh
85, Thursday, October 16, 2025 Life Transitions
Crystal Dawn O'Neill
Friday, October 10, 2025 Life Transitions
Yvonne Carroll 86, Thursday, October 9, 2025 Nicholls Funeral Home
Christopher Hancock 75, Sunday, October 12, 2025 Nicholls Funeral Home
Janice Elaine Williams 79, Friday, October 10, 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home
Bill Edwards 90, Friday, August 17, 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home
audiences in sold out shows across Canada.
According to a recent media release, the Hunter Brothers’ live show is a celebration of family, faith and a shared love of country music. In addition to being musicians, the five are also deeply rooted farmers, hockey players and community leaders. Tickets are available at cktickets.com. For more information about the brothers visit hunterbrothers.com.
Perfect World to hit stage on Nov. 1
Continued from page 17
Now, from Nov. 1-9, Perfect World will go on a 10show run.
Edmunds said the goal is to have people exiting the theatre with two things on their mind.
ling,” he said. Edmunds said the effort to morph Perfect World from concept to reality was a sobering one.
John "Giovanni" Corso
82, Wednesday, October 15. 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home
See full obituraries at chathamvoice.com/obituaries
“I want the audience to leave thinking, ‘Wow, what an amazing little girl,’ and ‘what the heck happened to her?’” he said.
Through all that, he hopes to deliver the message to never give up on your dreams.
“She lived the school of hard knocks. Many not nice things happened to her. It helped me see the arc of her character,” Edmunds said. “She had this amazing way with words; amazing creativity. She also had a real understanding of human nature.”
Edmunds is cautiously optimistic the play will be well received.
“Everyone we have presented the show to finds the story very compel-
“Learning what I’ve learned in writing this show, and the constant rewriting, I just feel like the crafting of a show around a particular idea is much more difficult than people think,” he said. “There is no formula for doing this, but there are some things you have to put in place and you have to go through to put up a show.”
As for potential future projects, Edmunds is non-committal.
“I am focused on this one right now,” he said, as rehearsals begin in early October. “I have floated a few ideas with some people. And if a really good story came about, and I felt I could tell it my way, I’d entertain telling it.”
For now, Edmunds’ musical storytelling will live in Perfect World.
Judy Woodrow/Special to The Chatham Voice
A string of tomato wagons wait to be unloaded at Conagra in Dresden.
Obituaries
Classifieds
In Memoriam
In Memoriam
Garage Sales Garage Sales
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Robert Arthur Johnston, son of the late Duncan and Louise (Van Praet) Johnston of Dover Township, on October 13, 2025, at the age of 92. A devoted husband and lifelong farmer, Robert lived a life rooted in hard work, love for the land, and deep care for his community. He took great pride in his fields, his farm, and his stewardship of the land through the Land Stewardship Program, ensuring it would continue to thrive for generations to come. Robert was a man of quiet strength and steady presence, known for his warm smile and easy laugh shared over a game of cards or a morning coffee at Tim Hortons. He found joy in the simple things; a good hand, a day on the ice fishing, or time spent with those he loved most. Robert leaves behind his loving wife Carol (Forget) Johnston with whom he shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and partnership. He was a proud father to Robin (Mike) Vinall and David Johnston, who carry forward his values of hard work and family devotion. He was deeply cherished by his grandchildren Amberly (William) Bembridge, Katie (Barrie) Christie, Robert (Sarah) Vinall, and Chelsea (Kalief Corbin) Johnston, each of whom he loved dearly and supported with pride. Robert’s legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, who brought him endless joy: Emily Johnston, George Christie, and Evelyn Vinall. A loving husband, cherished father, proud grandfather, and gentle great-grandfather, Robert’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family and all who knew him. His life was one of purpose, kindness, and quiet wisdom; a life well lived and deeply loved. Please join us to celebrate Robert’s life on Friday, November 14, 2025 from 3-6pm at the Links of Kent Golf and Event Centre in the River Deck Room (120 Indian Creek Road W., Chatham). Arrangements entrusted to Life Transitions Burial and Cremation Service Inc.
Clarence “Clink” Conlin passed away at Chatham-Kent Hospice on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the age of 83. Clink will be remembered as a loving husband of 60 years to Judy Conlin (nee Israel), father to his three daughters Karen Best-Conlin (Mike Best), Kelly Ripley, and Shelly DeWael (Jeff), and grandpa to his grandchildren, Alan Reaume (Victoria), Samantha Morencie (Jaron), Jordan Ripley (Kyla), Madison Morencie (Jordan), Rebecca DeWael, Casey Reaume (Erin), Zachary DeWael, and Bella Ripley. He will be missed by his brother Harland Conlin, along with his other family and many friends. He is predeceased by his parents Owen and Gertrude Conlin, and his brother Jim Conlin. Clink spent many years working as a diesel mechanic in Chatham, where he built a huge network of friends across the county, especially through his work on local dirt-track race cars. He and Judy spent many springs and autumns camping at the Pinery Provincial Park, where his ability to chat with anyone grew their friend group even more. His family will treasure memories of camping and biking with him, spending summers in their pool, and holiday dinners where grandma and grandpa made way too much food. He always had a story (or two) to share, and would talk your ear off anytime. He enjoyed watching baseball, hockey, and NASCAR, beating everyone at card games, and going for coffee at Maple City Bakery. He was incredibly kind and loved his family and friends deeply, and will be greatly missed. The family would like to thank the nurses and volunteers at Chatham-Kent Hospice for keeping Clink comfortable and providing such a welcoming space for his loved ones to spend some time with him as he passed. Donations may be made to Chatham-Kent Hospice. Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at Aristo’s (behind Smitty’s) on November 8th,2025 from 1 - 4 pm. All services entrusted to Life Transitions Burial and Cremation Inc.
Francis McGivern ~ October 27, 2017 ~
I wish I had some time with you
To walk among the stars
To hold your hand and see your face
And ask you how you are.
I’d tell you how things are going here
And say how I miss you so
And then there’d be that moment when
I wouldn’t want to let you go.
But I know that I would have to
As I’d give you a kiss and then
I’d wish that heaven allowed visitors
So I could come back and see you again.
Love & missed everyday Laura, Shane, Jenny and family.
Announcement
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
Wanted: Cash for a Samsung Galaxy Cellphone GB5, S Series. In good condition. Phone 519-354-7241.
For Sale
Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Readyto-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-354-3411
Wanted: Scrap air conditioners, dehumidifiers. Phone 226-2292614.
Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools.
We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-7278894.
CONSIGNMENT OR BUY: Wanted: Coin collections and silver coins. Call Paul 289228-2817. Wanted
8871 Doyle Line - Lots of Variety! All weekend long - 9am-4pm. Tools galore, pots, pans, bicycles. Come & see, you’ll be surprised!
Multi-Family - 34 Villa Court, Chatham. Saturday, October 25, 8am1pm. Furniture, odds and ends, SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!
Personals
Active Senior Widower, 5ft.6in., looking for friendship with single women 62 to 75 who wants to be treated like a lady. Walks, talks, day trips, evening tv. Lets have a coffee together. Text 226-627-1143.
Help Wanted
The Chatham Voice is looking for carriers in the following areas: Garden Path, Keil Trail N, Pheasant, Crane, McNaughton Ave. W., King St. W., Adelaide, Park St., Duke, Princess, etc. email michelle@chathamvoice.com!
MORTGAGES / LOANS
Puzzle answer. Puzzles found on page 16
