The Chatham Voice, Feb. 1, 2024

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Colin Brown, aka @iceman.brown, takes a chilly plunge in his backyard Jan. 25. The Chatham resident plans to do so every day this year to raise funds for local mental health programs and post it on social media. Here, Brown donates $1,000 to Elisha Banks, founder of the Music for the Mind charity that supports mental health programs in Chatham-Kent. See story on page 3.

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PAGE 2

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

News

RHRA cracks down on retirement home Owners of Dresden’s Park Street Place have until May 29 to sell the facility

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Ontario’s Retirement Home Regulatory Authority (RHRA) has revoked the operator’s license for Park Street Place in Dresden.

According to a RHRA notice to residents obtained by The Chatham Voice, as of May 29, unless the seniors’ residence is sold to a new RHRA-licensed operator, the current operator will no longer be allowed to provide care to the people living there.

When the order takes effect, it will prohibit the current owner/operator from providing the full gamut of client care, such as personal hygiene assistance and dressing, continence care, meals, as well as nursing services including dispensing medication.

The document also states that if residents plan on staying on at the home past the May deadline, they or their caregiver, will need to arrange for a private company to provide care services within the home.

“The operator of Park Street Place cannot provide these services or contract these services on your behalf,” the notice reads.

The beleaguered retirement residence has been under the gun since last September, when the

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retirement home watchdog investigated the facility. What they found prompted the agency to issue a management order whereby an external manager, appointed by the RHRA, was put in charge of the 48-bed facility.

Details of the original management order issued last October, as previously published in The Voice, included a litany of complaints at Park Street Place stemming from insufficient staffing.

The document indicated that issues came to a head Sept. 25, 2023. On that day, no employees were available to dispense critical medications, such as insulin, as the medications were locked up and no one had a key.

Nor was there any staff at the residence to provide “basic care,” the order said, with only a cook, a housekeeper and maintenance worker on site. The same day, a resident

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was injured and left untreated when they reportedly fell from their wheelchair.

The lack of staff was reported at 7 a.m., the order said, with an RHRA inspector arriving at 9:45 a.m. However, an RPN, scheduled to work later that day, came in early to assist.

The Sept. 25 complaint wasn’t the first time the RHRA has been called to Park Street Place.

That same month the owner/ operator was issued a warning letter stating residents were not being bathed according to schedule.

Online, Park Street Place is listed as being owned by a numbered company, citing Pushpinder Brah as its main contact. On the ErieStClairhealthline.ca webpage, Brah is listed as the facility’s executive director.

Despite repeated attempts, The Voice was unable to contact Brah as of press time.

by sunday, february 11

That’s the share the municipality receives for hosting Cascades Casino Chatham.

To date for the fiscal year from April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2024, Chatham-Kent has received $1,192,038.

Since the original gaming site opened in Dresden in April 2001, the municipality has garnered around $17.3 million from gaming revenues.

The payments to host communities are based on a formula consistently applied across all gaming sites in Ontario using a graduated scale of gaming revenue at the host site. One hundred per cent of OLG’s profits are reinvested in the province.

Since 1994, host communities have benefitted from more than $2 billion in non-tax gaming revenue.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 3

News

Ice Man raising cash for mental health

go to Family Service Kent to assist with counselling costs for youngsters and adults and help pay fees for expenIce Man Brown is helping sive psychological assessments that can cost as much his town.

That’s the handle Colin as $4,000. Chatham-Kent Brown has adopted in the Victim Services is also get2024 challenge he’s set for ting some dollars to buy himself. The Chatham res- weighted blankets for those ident has vowed to take suffering from anxiety and an ice bath every day this gift cards to help purchase year to help raise funds and food and hygiene products awareness for local charities to assist those in crisis.

Brown, who stopped drinkassisting those with mental ing and using substances health challenges.

However, taking a daily last year, has a new creed freezing dip isn’t the only of clean living, noting he undertook the way the 37 year 365-day ice old is helping. “The ice bath gives bath challenge Brown wears me clarity and the acas a way to a different cap or hat for each countability through so- hold himself dip, which he cial media keeps me in accountable.

Plus, it keeps then auctions the ice. The hats were off on social an idea I came up with his focus razor media. to not only help myself, sharp.

“The ice bath Every morngives me claring Brown sets but to help others in up a ring light need that may struggle ity and the accountability and films the with some of things I through social daily ritual, did, and do struggle media keeps which he then me in the ice,” posts on Tik- with today.”

Brown exTok, Facebook - Colin Brown plained from and Instagram with the tag @iceman. the backyard of his south Chatham home. “The hats brown.

The intrepid Brown has were an idea I came up with already raised $1,000 and to not only help myself, but on day 25 of the effort he to help others in need that handed over a cheque to may struggle with some of Music for the Mind (MFTM) things I did, and do struggle founder Elisha Banks to help with today.”

Transitioning from a life of C-K residents facing mental substance abuse and alcohealth challenges.

The money will be used to holism and replacing it with support the non-profit’s con- exercise, swimming and fitcert Feb. 2 at the Chatham ness is “big” for him, Brown Portuguese Club. Money added.

It’s a serious endeavor. raised from the event will

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Brown is running 20 kilometres a week for fun, with plans to take part in a 41-km marathon in Toronto in May. He also plays volleyball, basketball and hockey on a weekly basis and has added yoga and meditation to his repertoire.

“Staying busy is key for me,” Brown said. “It keeps me on my toes and my brain busy, as ADD is a real thing for me.”

Brown, the father of a young daughter, has other ideas up his sleeve. The owner of Great Lakes Construction & More Ltd. excavating business is also in the process of developing a clothing line with plans to share the proceeds with agencies dedicated to mental health.

Banks said she’s pleased with Brown’s efforts and others like him who support their cause.

“It was a wonderful surprise when Colin reached out to me and said that he was going to be doing this for MFTM fundraiser,” Banks said. “To have people step up to support what we do and to do it just because their heart is in it and they want to make a difference, means so much to us. Because that’s what keeps us going.

“To have people who want to help us to help people in Chatham-Kent who struggle with mental health, that’s amazing,” she said.

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Forced to sell Continued from page 2

When reached by telephone, a manager at Park Street Place, who wished to remain anonymous, stated she was not “comfortable speaking with a reporter,” but said she would pass on the request for an interview to upper management.

The Jan. 22 summary order indicates the deputy registrar has “reasonable grounds” to believe the licensee has contravened provincial regulations by failing to provide “necessary care” to residents and protect them from neglect.

It goes to say the licensee is operating in a “critical state of debt” and failing to pay external providers, leading to interruptions in service and staffing levels.

The latest order stated that “the Licensee is focused on reducing expenses and is not guid-

ed by ensuring resident needs are met and resident health is safeguarded. The Licensee does not appear to have the goodfaith intention or ability to operate the home” in accordance with Ministry of Health guidelines.

According to RHRA rules, the owners of a facility found to be in non-compliance can face a $50,000 fine for a first violation and a $200,000 fine for subsequent violations.

The agency also has no input into staffing decisions made at the retirement home.

Along with the RHRA, which is an independent non-profit organization, the province recently invested $72.3 million to create a 10-person investigation unit to probe allegations of negligence, abuse, non-compliance and failure to comply with ministry inspector’s

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

News

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

A provincial authority is pulling the operating licence for the owners of Park Street Place Retirement Home in Dresden.

orders in long-term care.

According to an Ontario government media release, the new unit’s aim is to “ensure every longterm care resident lives

with dignity and experiences the quality of care they deserve.”

Neglect of the elderly in long-term care and retirement homes reached

a boiling point in Ontario during the pandemic, with senior citizens dying at an unprecedented rate from COVID-19 and neglect. Hundreds were

found to be living in filthy conditions that were exacerbated by chronic understaffing. The Canadian military was called in to assist.

MNP welcomes EPR Rieger Bray Hohl We’re pleased to welcome Sandy Bray, Sandra Hohl, Kelly Dupuis, and their team to the MNP family. With our shared values and commitment to helping our clients thrive, we look forward to serving the Chatham-Kent community together.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 5

News

Shadd honoured with stamp

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Renowned abolitionist and newspaperwoman Mary Ann Shadd continues to leave her indelible mark on history.

In her honour, Canada Post has unveiled a special postage stamp carrying the likeness of the first Black woman to found and publish a newspaper in Canada.

Titled “The Provincial Freeman,” Shadd used the publication as a vehicle to fight against slavery and encourage Black immigration to Canada.

In addition to publishing and writing for the newspaper, Shadd was a public speaker, lawyer and educator, advocating for equal rights for all.

The stamp was unveiled in a special ceremony in Chatham Jan. 23 at The Kent, before a gathering of Shadd’s descendants, historians and dignitaries in honour of Black History Month in February.

Born free in 1823 to a prominent abolitionist family in Wilmington, Del. in the U.S., Shadd’s childhood home was a stop on the Underground Railroad. The experience shaped her life and she pursued the causes of equality for both women and Black people for the rest of

her days. the first issue of Shadd’s After working as a teacher newspaper, “The Provincial for 10 years beginning at age Freeman,” was published in 16, Shadd emigrated to Can- Windsor from 1853 to 1855. ada in 1850 when the United Shadd subsequently moved States passed the Fugitive to Toronto where the paper Slave Act which allowed was published from 1854 to slave trackers to hunt for 1855 and then in Chatham slaves in free states. The Act for a two-year run ending in also compelled governments 1857. and ordinary citizens to help Shadd was the first Black trackers capture them. woman in North America to That law prompted an ex- found and publish a newsodus of Black people from paper, although she hid that the U.S. into Canada, where fact in the beginning, includslavery had been abolished ing only her initials. The pasince 1833. per strongly promoted CanaAfter moving to Canada, da West (Ontario) as a place Shadd first taught at an in- for Blacks to settle, with the tegrated private school in motto, “Self-reliance is the Windsor, all the while con- road to independence.”

Continued on page 13 tinuing to raise her voice – and pen – against slavery, school segregation and for women’s rights.

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Representatives from Canada Post unveiled a stamp in honour of Mary Ann Shadd recently in Chatham. Shadd had deep ties to the region prior to the U.S. Civil War.

Reading Buddies return The Chatham Voice

Chatham-Kent Public Library’s popular Reading Buddies program is back.

The six-week initiative offers free one-on-one assistance to youngsters from grades 1 to 6, to help them improve their literacy skills.

Volunteers spend 30 minutes per week with a child, focusing on lit-

eracy-based games, activities and reading.

Reading Buddies is offered at the Chatham branch on Monday evenings from Jan. 15 to Feb. 19. Appointment times are available between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

To register online, email cklibrary@chatham-kent.ca or phone 519-354-2940. Spaces are limited.

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PAGE 6

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

Opinion It makes no sense Chatham-Kent council recently opted to add on operating hours for certain types of ATVs on most rural roads in the municipality and we don’t understand the reasoning, at least what was outlined by municipal administration.

The report from administration says the extension of hours, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. instead of 30 minutes after sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset, checks four boxes on council’s own “Council Term Priorities” list. And that’s something with which we seriously disagree.

Priority one, “Deliver Excellent Service.” How is someone driving an ATV down a roadway delivering service of any kind for anyone? It likely does deliver fun to the ATV rider, though.

Priority two, “Promote Safety & Well-Being.” Having ATV jockeys on roads that contain various commercial and commuter vehicles is not a safe recipe. Clip an ATV with a car and that ATV driver is likely in big trouble, especially on a rural road where the speed limit is 80 or 90 km/h.

Priority three, “Grow Our Community.” How does someone hopping aboard an ATV grow the community?

Do pregnancies occur on ATVs? Are people moving here because they

can drive their ATV down the shoulder of a flat, straight rural road?

Priority four, “Ensure Environmental Sustainability.” This is laughable. The extended hours provide just the opposite of ensuring environmental sustainability. How many electric ATVs are out there?

The vast, vast majority of all-terrain vehicles are gas powered.

It you’re lucky, one of these maxes out at 20-25 miles to the gallon. Heck, that’s not far off the advertised highway fuel economy of a 5.7L Hemiequipped Ram truck.

Add to that the fact most ATV riders are out and about playing around (they’re fun to ride, for sure), goosing the throttle at times. Fuel consumption is likely much worse.

Strange justification, in our minds, to extend the hours allowing ATVs to share the roads with other vehicles.

We realize the extension of operation hours is not across the board for all ATVs. There are restrictions.

And, yes, we know ATVs aren’t allowed on all roadways in the municipality. For starters, they can’t be (legally) driven in urban areas and along certain busy rural roads and highways.

Still, the reasoning for the added hours is nonsensical. Just state it is for the enjoyment of the riders.

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).

You can also drop them off or mail them to us at 71 Sass Rd., Unit 4, Chatham, Ont, N7M 5J4.

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.

The contents of this newspaper are protected by copyright. No material from this edition may be reproduced without expressed written consent of CK Media Inc.

A member of:

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

Reader criticizes councillors’ behaviour Editor: As I sat through the 18 deputations that were read in council chambers Jan. 15, I couldn’t help but notice the incredibly disrespectful behaviour I witnessed.

Councillors were looking at their cell phones, texting, laughing, talking, and whispering while I watched concerned citizens of this community stand at the podium and plead with council to listen to their concerns.

This is not the first time I have witnessed this type of behaviour by councillors. I am appalled that nothing is being said or done about it.

I have heard the mayor speak many times about respect in council chambers, but he was asking

for citizens to act in a respectful manner. Whose job is it to reprimand municipal councillors for their disrespect?

Is it the mayor’s job? Is it the CAO’s? Is it the integrity officer’s job? Or is it left up to the citizens who vote for councillors every four years?

I would like to remind all citizens of the municipality just how important your vote is at the local level. The vote on Monday night to purchase the Sears building is a perfect example of the failure of this community to elect responsible councillors who vote as the people wish. Our pleas were ignored Monday night and council (again, mind you) pushed through their own agendas.

With a dismal voter turnout at the last municipal election in October 2022 of 30 per cent, it is no wonder that the will of the people is being ignored.

I would also like to remind councillors that if you think deputations are a joke and that you don’t have to listen thoughtfully to constituents about their concerns, then you are not doing your job and I encourage you to resign so someone who does care about this community can sit up there at that table. I know many citizens of Chatham-Kent who would gladly trade places with you and have a vote on important issues that matter to our community.

Sheila Martin Chatham

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 7

Opinion

Help take the lead in crime prevention Editor: Recently, I received a phone call that no business owner in Chatham-Kent ever wants to receive. It was news that our establishment in Wallaceburg had been targeted in a break-and-enter.

Naturally, my immediate concern was for everyone’s well-being.

However, it also struck me that I should have replaced the stolen cameras weeks ago. As active members of this community, we are determined not to let incidents like this become the accepted norm. We firmly believe that everyone should have the right to feel safe and secure within their community.

This incident sparked a realization that we cannot rely solely on law enforcement to address the issue. It is our collective responsibility to take action and make Chatham-Kent one of the safest communities in Ontario.

Following the break-in, we immediately implemented security measures to prevent such incidents in the future. As a proactive step, a new camera system was installed, barriers were removed, and the lighting around our building was increased to eliminate hiding spots.

These measures have proven effective, as we have not encountered any further issues since their implementation.

We took the lead in connecting with various stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and law enforcement agencies. It was encouraging to see that everyone recognized the urgency of the situation and expressed their willingness to support efforts to make our community safer.

The Chatham-Kent police have recently announced an increase in funding, which will significantly contribute to improving safety measures.

As one community member aptly stated, “Our communities get what we are willing to tolerate.” Indeed, it is time for us to collectively declare that we will not tolerate this senseless crime any longer. We acknowledge the efforts made over the past five years, but recognize the need for a more significant impact to curb criminal activity.

To achieve this goal, I propose several suggestions to further improve the safety and security of our community: • Strengthen Community Policing: Encourage increased police presence and engagement within the community. Foster partnerships between law enforcement agencies and community organizations to promote trust, communication, and collaboration.

• Enhance Neighborhood Watch programs: Empower residents to actively participate in the protection of their neighbourhoods. Educate and inform citizens on crime prevention strategies and create a network of vigilant community members who can report suspicious activities or concerns.

• Improve surveillance and lighting: Encourage businesses and residents to install and maintain quality surveillance systems and adequate lighting in high-risk areas.

This will act as a deterrent for potential criminals and provide valuable evidence for law enforcement investigations.

• Implement crime prevention through environ-

mental design (CPTED): Adopt CPTED principles in urban planning and development to create safer and more secure environments. This includes strategies such as designing well-lit, open

spaces, installing security features, and promoting natural surveillance.

• Foster community engagement: Organize regular community meetings, town halls, and workshops to facili-

tate open dialogue and collaboration between residents, businesses, law enforcement, and government officials. This will allow for the exchange of ideas, concerns, and potential solutions.

By implementing these suggestions and fostering a collective effort, I believe that C-K can become one of the safest communities in Ontario.

Jordan Kniaziew Chatham-Kent

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 8

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

News

Understanding visual impairments

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

There’s plenty of help available for the vision impaired in Chatham-Kent.

That’s the message members of the local Canadian Council of the Blind (CCB) want to impart to local residents ahead of White Cane Week taking place the first week of February.

C-K chapter president Markus McCracken said the group is working hard to raise awareness of what services are available, as well as publicizing an activity designed to give people with sight a chance to experience what it’s like to be blind or visually challenged.

As part of White Cane Week, the CCB is putting together an obstacle

course at the Downtown Chatham Centre where individuals can put on a blindfold and learn to walk with a white cane.

The first obstacle course will take place Feb. 5 at the DCC from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and again from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. A second obstacle course will run on Feb. 10 beginning at 1 p.m.

The public will also be able to meet with members of the group on Feb. 7, to see what it’s like to shop when visually impaired.

Meetups will take place at Walmart at 10 a.m.; PetSmart at 11:30 and at SuperStore at 1 p.m.

“We’re trying to get the word out to the general public that there is support for people who are facing vision loss,” McCracken said in a recent interview. “We’re trying to increase our membership and raise

awareness. We’re here to help in any way we can.”

Born with glaucoma, the 44-year-old Chatham resident has a prosthetic left eye and has limited “foggy” vision on the right. The fogginess ebbs and flows.

“I tell people it’s like looking through the bottom of a leftover glass of milk,” he explained.

McCracken, who attend-

ed the W. Ross Macdonald School for the Blind in Brantford, said he doesn’t believe in the phrase “I can’t.”

According to McCracken, technology to assist the visually impaired has improved dramatically in recent years.

In fact, he’s becoming a gaming expert who works with companies on gaming accessibility and promotion.

The local CCB chapter also

holds monthly meetings at the Active Lifestyle Centre in Chatham on the first Monday of the month at 6 p.m. The group also offers peer support online and assistance with technology.

To find out more about White Cane Week activities or explore what the CCB C-K group has to offer, email CCB.ckchapter@gmail.com.

Straight Talk with Nathan McKinlay In our column, we often share the insights, stories and encounters experienced at the Funeral Home and beyond. We are blessed to be able to help families of all different faiths, backgrounds and walks of life through their grief journey. At a time of loss, people are often either at their best or at their worst, and families tend to either come together or come apart. Working with grief and death day in and day out can be challenging. It is certainly not a job for everyone and not everyone can cut it. We are fortunate to have been able to hone and train a team of compassionate and passionate, authentic and hard-working professionals to serve our families. Our greatest asset is our team. As such I only felt it appropriate to highlight some of the individuals that I am fortunate enough to work with.

- Nathan

We all know those people who put 100% into everything they do. Tom Aarssen is definitely one of them. Tom came with a lot of experience, having previously worked as a Funeral Director Assistant in Wallaceburg for 15 years. He is as tireless as he is passionate about the job and he has a heart of gold. Tom goes above and beyond for the families we serve as well as for our Team. Thank you Tom for your passion and your energy – we are thrilled to have you with us.

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Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Canadian Council of the Blind CK chapter president Markus McCracken and members of the group are trying to raise awareness that help for the visually impaired is available in Chatham-Kent. McCracken, left, along with Dennis Cooper and Betty Heather, seated, spent an afternoon at Chatham’s Bowlerama along with Larry, Roy and Lois Bedford.

Feedback sought in survey The Chatham Voice

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent and CK Local Immigration Partnership are looking to learn more about the experiences of immigrant residents as part of efforts to make the region more welcoming and grow the population.

To that end, they’ve developed a survey. The survey

questions are based on the 19 characteristics of a welcoming community, such as access to housing, employment, transportation, and opportunities for community engagement. The survey also asks about experiences getting connected in the community and feeling a sense of belonging.

This survey is a follow-up to the first CK Immigration

Survey launched in 2020 to see how trends are changing locally.

To see the results of the 2020 CK Immigration Survey, visit www.Chatham-Kent.ca/ CKLIP. The 30-question survey is being offered in seven languages, including new additions of Punjabi and Ukrainian. The survey is open until Feb. 12.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

PAGE 9

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 10

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

News

Charges unveiled against CKHA’s top doc The Chatham Voice

According to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), the chief of staff for the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance faces criminal charges.

Dr. Pervez Faruqi faces charges of “assault, on or

about Aug. 16, 2023…” as well as “assault, choking, suffocating or strangling between Jan. 1, 2023 and Jan. 16, 2023…” the CPSO website states.

CKHA officials said they only recently became aware of the charges against Faruqi, and the hospital is reviewing the

matter.

“CKHA understands that the allegations are unrelated to Dr. Faruqi’s medical practice or duties at the hospital, and no finding has been made by any court,” officials said.

The hospital is reviewing the matter.

Bail conditions imposed

on Aug. 22 by the Chatham-Kent police, the CPSO documents state, include the doctor having to notify police of any change to his address; is to not communicate, directly or indirectly, with named persons and must not go to a specified address with a specified ex-

ception.

The CPSO document does not list the specified names or the address.

Chatham-Kent police officials said information on the incidents in question were not released to the media in order to help protect the identity of the alleged victim.

Dr. Parvez Faruqi

CKHA chief of staff Dr. Pervez Faruqi is pleased to welcome the new doctors.

“These physicians have unique clinical backgrounds and extensive education, collectively enhancing our commitment to high-quality patient and family-centered care in the Chatham-Kent community,” Faruqi said

in a media release.

Shirley is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists and has work experience in Toronto, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.

Shirley will also be completing a minimally invasive surgery fellowship at McMaster University, beginning this summer.

While she is not current-

ly opening a community clinic, Shirley will help by providing call coverage for CKHA’s team of specialists.

Somani completed his Doctor of Medicine from Western University in 2020 and came to CKHA that same year as a family medicine resident. He said he’s enjoyed his time in Chatham-Kent thus far,

and is looking forward to joining the hospitalist program and practicing inpatient medicine.

“I am excited to continue working in Chatham-Kent and contributing to the same community that I have trained in over the past couple of years,” Somani said.

Andisha, originally from Libya, completed five

years of clinical training as a specialist in anesthesia and intensive care.

His final year of training was in cardiothoracic anesthesia and intensive care, subspecialties at two academic hospitals. He joined CKHA late in 2023.

He said he and his family are looking forward to living in C-K and exploring the community.

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CKHA welcomes three new physicians

The Chatham Voice

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance has marked the start of 2024 with the addition of three new physicians.

The trio includes obstetrician/gynecologist Dr. Rachelle Shirley, hospitalist Dr. Aamer Somani, and anesthetist Dr. Emadaldin Andisha.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

PAGE 11

News

Help Ridgetown woman ‘Change’ the world

at the recommendation in Guelph, she ran a Nickof friends after she had el a Brick campaign that to downsize and leave raised funds for a differGuelph. ent school in Uganda.

Last year, Ninaber “I came across some Your loose pocket change could help with raised funds at various coin rolling wrappers a Ridgetown woman’s local events as donations that reminded me of the campaign to help build a helped buy food and Nickel A Brick in Guelph, school for impoverished medical supplies for im- and that got me thinking poverished children in about doing something children in Uganda.

Sharon Elizabeth Ni- the African nation and as- similar here,” she said. naber is organizing a sisted agencies in build- “I’m hoping people will donate loose change – Change The World cam- ing two schools.

The first school, located nickels, dimes, quarters, paign for the month of February to help the in Kampala, is just about loonies, toonies – whatFriends For Life organi- complete as she is now ever they can; every coin zation build a new school raising funds for the sec- helps add up.”

She also welcomes anyin Busunju, about 45 min- ond school in Busunju, utes from the capital city which officials hope to be one with a larger amount completed this December. of coins – especially some of Kampala.

Donor boxes for the that are already rolled – Ninaber has advocated for the children in Ugan- Change the World cam- that can also be dropped da since moving to Ridge- paign will be at Mitton’s off at the sites.

Jewellers, Good Day “When it’s over, I hope to town in the fall of 2022.

“Ridgetown has been Cafe, Br. 243 Legion and get a small group togethso welcoming. It’s amaz- the Ridgetown Indepen- er and have a coin-rolling ing,” said Ninaber, a dec- dent News office from party,” she said.

Ninaber said she is not a orator and wedding orga- Feb. 1-29.

WHERE COME She said whenHOME she lived missionary but a handsnizer whoDREAMS moved to town

By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative The Ridgetown Independent

on advocate for the youth of Uganda.

She spent three months in the fall in Uganda, where she visits annually to assist agencies in providing a safe environment and education to the youth, many of whom are orphans and in vulnerable states.

Ninaber is willing to attend church or community meetings to talk about her benevolent activities or talk to anyone in arranging a fundraiser.

She can be reached at 226-343-1256, by email at sharon.ninaber@gmail. com or by message on her Facebook page at Sharon Elizabeth Ninaber.

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Sharon Elizabeth Ninaber is pictured with Ruth, who is being trained to become the head administrator of a school being built for impoverished and orphaned children in Busunju, Uganda. Ninaber, of Ridgetown, is raising funds locally to help with the build.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 12

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

Chatham-Kent Black Excellence Awards and Gala February 10, 2024 Doors open 6:00pm Retro Suites, Derby Room, Chatham Black Tie Event, Dress Your Best!

Black History Month is a time to celebrate and pause as we recognize the many achievements of Black Canadians who through history have done so much to make Canada the diverse place it is today. It wasn’t until December of 1995 that the House of Commons officially Tickets include: meal, cash bar w/one complimentary signature recognized February as Black History Month in Canada, following a motion introduced by the Jean Augustine, the first Black Canadian BEA cocktail, DJ entertainment following awards ceremony. woman elected to Parliament. Once considered a destination for freedom seekers, Chatham-Kent is home to some of the most successful For tickets visit: Black settlements in Canadian History. It is important to recognize Chatham-Kent’s significant Black historical figures and our role in the eventbrite.ca and search Black Excellence Awards underground railroad.

Chatham Kent Public Library - Read Black Voices - All Branches Celebrate the diversity of Black experiences by reading books by Black authors and illustrators. Participants will earn a ballot when they borrow a book with the Black Voices bookmarks for a chance to win a prize.

Buxton Museum - Visit Ontario’s second largest national historic site, a tribute to the Elgin settlement virtually or in-person. http://www.buxtonmuseum.com.

Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History - Site of the Dawn Settlement, built by Rev. Josiah Henson in 1841. In-person tours available for groups of 15 or more. Virtual tours also available. www.heritagetrust.on.ca/en/properties/josiah-henson-museum Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum - Learn about the Black community that settled along McGregor’s Creek in Chatham at the end of the 18th century to present day. www.ckbhs.org CK Museum - Let Us March on till Victory is Won: The Struggle for Racial Equity in CK and Ontario. The exhibit traces the National Unity Association’s crusade for justice and determination to end practices of segregation in Chatham-Kent and Ontario. Visit the virtual exhibitor book the travelling exhibit to see it in-person.

Follow the North Star - Have you ever seen this sign and wondered what it means? Placed along highways, roads and streets this metal sign symbolized ‘Follow the North Star’.

Much like the slaves of the past who followed the North Star to Freedom, these road signs will lead you to various Underground Railroad sites.

Remembering History.

Celebrating Heritage.

Honouring Achievement.

ckha.on.ca Follow us on social media @ckhamedia

Family Education & Preservation Family HistoryHistory Advocacy,Advocacy, Education & Preservation

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Celebrating Black History Month

For help or information about sexual assault / harassment / abuse / exploitation or to request a presentation please call the Crisis Line Number during business hours.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

PAGE 13

What’s Happening Thursday, February 1, 12:00pm Black History Month Flag Raising, 315 King St W, Chatham (Civic Centre) Bundle up and show your support for the kick-off of Black History Month in Chatham-Kent!

Thursday, February 8, 10:00am - 11:00am Buxton Museum Storytime, Chatham-Kent Public Library, Chatham Branch. Join us for a special story time with special guests from the Buxton National Historic Site & Museum. Best suited for children 5 and younger.

Drop-in.

Saturday, February 10, 6:00pm - 1:00am (cost to attend) Chatham-Kent Black Excellence Awards, Retro Suites Hotel. Thursday, February 22, 6:30pm 7:15pm - Twilight Tails, Chatham-Kent Public Library, Dresden Branch. Play the jumbo Match-Up of famous athletes, entertainers, and inventors. Registration is not necessary.

Wednesday, February 28, 2:00pm and 7:00pm Screening of The Color Purple, Chatham Capitol Theatre. A story of love and resilience bast on the novel and Broadway musical. Rated PG-13.

Admission $7 at the door. No registration required.

Stamp honours Shadd

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Continued from page 5

Shadd’s connection to Chatham-Kent evolved when her father Abraham Doras Shadd, a stalwart abolitionist, moved the family to North Buxton in 1853. He became one of the first Black men to be elected to a political seat in Canada, serving as a councillor in Raleigh Township.

Canada Post also commemorated the elder Shadd with a stamp in 2009. The Shadds are the first father and daughter duo in history to be featured on a stamp, aside from the Royal Family.

Eventually, Shadd returned to the U.S. to become a recruiter for the Union Army. She then moved to Washington, where she was one of the first women to complete a law degree from Howard University. Shadd worked as a lawyer out of her home before she passed away in 1893.

A bust of Mary Ann Shadd is located in B.M.E. Freedom Park in Chatham, and memorials also located in Windsor and Toronto. She has an elementary school in Scarborough named in her honour.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 14

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

CKHA listed as a top employer: Forbes

The Chatham Voice

The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance is getting top marks for its dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Following the results of a survey undertaken by Forbes business magazine, the CKHA ranked 51 out of 150 employers as one of Canada’s Best Employers for Diversity 2023.

The alliance also placed sixth among 18 organizations in the health care and social services category.

The latest ranking is the second time the CKHA

has achieved a spot on the list having previously ranked number 69 out of 150 employers in 2022.

In a media release, CKHA board chair Deb Crawford said the achievement is

a “testament to CKHA’s market research firm continued focus on creat- Statista to compile the ing an equitable and safe list by surveying approxworkplace for its staff, imately 12,000 Canadian physicians and volun- workers at companies teers.” with at least 500 employForbes collaborated with ees.

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Shadd family proud of Mary Ann’s recognition

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 15

News

w e t s e h . t e l s i i s m Thi ings a s r b t a th w e t s e h t s i s i Th e! l i m s a s g n i that br

vis explained, noting she’s in “awe” of her famous ancestor, feting Shadd for blazing trails, including that of being When Canada Post un- one of the first Black woman veiled abolitionist Mary Ann to go to law school and to Shadd’s new postage stamp, promote women’s rights.

“She influenced our family her kin stood tall and proud.

To mark Black History to get more education,” she Month in February, more said. “So, if you look at the Contributed image than a dozen descendants Shadds, many of them have From left, descendants of Mary Ann Shadd – Adrienne Shadd, Marishana Mabusela and Brenda Edmonds Travis gathered recently in Cha- higher education.”

–show off the stamp commemoTravis said she also appreci- rating their ancestor with Brandy tham to honour the fearless freedom fighter who changed ated Mary Ann’s forthright- Ryan, Canada Post’s director of ness. the course of history. equity, diversity and inclusion.

“She didn’t mince words Shadd’s stamp is part of Canada An image of a serious young woman – taken from the only and she didn’t worry about it Post’s Black History Month colbeing a man’s lection. existing photoworld,” Travis graph of Shadd “She influenced our plished great things.

– is set in family to get more edu- stressed.

“I guess they have to have Toronto histoshades of pur- cation. “So, if you look rian Adrienne that fearlessness as well, to ple on a cream at the Shadds, many Shadd, an- do what they’re doing,” she and brown of them have higher other descen- said. background Brandy Ryan, Canada Post dent, also ofof black-eyed education.”

Susans in the - Brenda Edmonds Travis, a fered words of director of equity, diversipraise, noting ty and inclusion, said Mary stamp. Beneath Shadd descendent Get your the recognition Ann Shadd was a great seher is the offilection, as she helped “shape cial masthead of The Provin- will “live on for the ages.

Adrienne pointed out that the country. cial Freeman – the weekly “She was big on education newspaper Shadd founded Mary Ann expressed what and women’s rights,” Ryan and edited. The young jour- she believed in “letting the said. nalist used the paper to push chips fall where they may.

In addition to Mary Ann’s “That was Mary Ann Shadd for an end to slavery, while advocating for equal rights to at ‘T,’ and she didn’t seem work as an abolitionist, lawyer and newsFrom best-ever Beef Stew for all – regardless of colour to shy away paper founder, to straight-from-the sixties from criticiz- “That was Mary Ann or gender.

Ryan said the Two of Shadd’s descen- i n g . . . c a l l i n g Shadd to at ‘T,’ and Stroganoff, we have dants, spoke from the podi- out leaders of she didn’t seem to shy woman lived yesterday’s and today’s a “remarkable commu- away from criticizing... um, both bursting with pride the favourite meals on the menu! life. whethin Shadd’s accomplishments nity, Ryan, a Black Choose from more than and the commemorative er they were calling out leaders of black or white, the community, wheth- woman from stamp.

200 fully-prepared, frozen dishes Alberta, said Toronto educator Bren- most of them er they were black or — all with free delivery.* her family men,” white; most of them da Edmonds Travis, whose were came to Cangreat-great grandfather was said Adrienne. were men.”

Locally Owned by Dave Galley ada in part Shadd’s younger brother “She seemed - Adrienne Shadd Windsor@HeartToHomeMeals.ca because of Garrison, said the recogni- to be fearless Shadd’s protion has given the Shadd that way.”

1-844-221-6383 According to Adrienne, the motion of Canada as a safe family “so much pride.

“We have always been at the Shadd family “carries on haven for those escaping MADE FOR Seniors! forefront of making a differ- the spirit” as there are many slavery and oppression in *Some conditions may apply. ence in the community,” Tra- Shadds that have accom- the U.S.

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

ew t s e h t s i s i h T ! e l i m s a s that bring

t a h t s w e e t t s s a T e h t s i s i Th !! k e l c i a m b s u a o s y g e n i rk that tba reeu Fmen

PAGE 16

THE CHATHAM VOICE

Community Events

Thursday, February 1, 2024: • 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 is welcome.

• Merlin Legion Br. 465. 519-689-4884.

Jam Session from 1-4:30pm. All are welcome to attend with a donation of $2.

Homemade Panzerotti + Menu available 4-7pm. New 1-lb Wings with Fries $8.85 + tax = $10.00.

Friday, February 2, 2024: • The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Supper served 4:00-6:00. No orders after 5:30pm.

Tonight’s specials are spaghetti and meat Balls or fish & chips, $13.00. Take out available, call 519-351-8733 or 519351-5639. Fun Darts start at 7:00pm.

Everyone Welcome.

• Merlin Legion Br. 465. 519-689-4884.

Merlickin Pork Chop Dinner (includes 1 chop, apple sauce, scalloped potatoes or fries, gravy, veggies, bun & dessert $13.72 + tax. = $15.50.

• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St, is a ham and scalloped potato dinner vegetable, salad and a bun. Dine ins $13 and pickups $14. All meals are served at 6pm. Please call 519-352-8291 to order.

Everyone welcome.

Saturday, February 3, 2024: • Morning Breakfast Program at First Presbyterian Church (corner of Fifth St. and Wellington). A delicious and nutritious breakfast served free of charge from 9:30am-11:00am, serving indoors, no take out. Wheelchair accessible.

signed up to participate. 4-H membership fees will be paid online again this year through the 4-hontario.ca website.

is spaghetti with meat sauce. Euchre at 1:00. Evening Shuffleboard or Euchre at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Sunday, February 4, 2024: • Brunch at the Chatham Granite Club, 41 William Street N. All you can eat.

Adults $15, Children aged 4 to 10 $6 and children under 4 are free. 10:30am -12:30pm. Everyone welcome, come and enjoy.

Wednesday, February 7, 2024: • 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 meat loaf dinner. Come check out our other daily specials. We have Fun Darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

• Corporate Communion of the K of C Fourth Degree at the 8am mass at St. Joseph’s Church, Wellington St. W., Chatham, followed by the annual St. Joe’s Knights of Columbus Council #10436 breakfast being held at The Spirit & Life Center. 9am-noon before mass starts.

The Chatham and Harwich groups of The Catholic Women’s League are going to be holding a bake sale while the breakfast is on. Menu includes is bacon, eggs, ham, pancakes, French Toast, toast and jam, fruit cups, coffee, tea or water. Prices for meals are $12 for ages 13 and up. Ages, 4 to 12, $5. Ages 3 and under for free! A 50/50 draw for adults.

• Jamboree at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 1-5pm. $5. Come, listen and dance to the music of Hired Hand fro a fun afternoon.

Everyone welcome.

Monday, February 5, 2024: • Kick off White Cane Week - 10am11am and 2pm-3pm. Downtown Chatham Mall. Meet the members of the Canadian Counsil of The Blind CK Chapter and find out what it is like to use a white cane. CCB CK Chapter monthly membership meeting - 6pm Active Lifestyle Centre at 20 Merritt Ave, Chatham.

• Merlin Legion Br. 465. 519-689-4884.

Join us for our delicious Merlickin Chicken plus menu serving 4 to 7pm.

• Chatham-Kent Public Library (CKPL) is offering a free four-week Learn to Play Mahjong program for adults on Monday February 5, 12, 19 and 26 from 3:30pm4:30pm in the Chatham Branch Meeting Room. Mahjong is a fun and challenging game. Space is limited. Attendance at all four sessions is recommended. Register for this free four week in-person program at your local CKPL branch or by contacting Ask CKPL: Phone: 519354-2940. Text: 519-401-7174. Email: cklibrary@chatham-kent.ca. Facebook Chat: @ckplibrary.

• Chatham-Kent 4-H Association Rally Night. 6:30-8:30 pm. Invite a friend and come on out to the Morpeth Community Hall! See what clubs will be offered in 2024 across Chatham-Kent and get

Tuesday, February 6, 2024: • The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Today’s special

• The Chatham Legion Branch 642 corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 3:00pm-5:30pm. Entertainment

by Exit 31 from 4:30-9:30. Come check out our menu. Everyone Welcome.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

Fun Stuff

• Chat with the members of the Canadian Counsel of The Blind CK Chapter and see what it is like to shop with a visual impairment. 10am to 11am Walmart, 11:30 to 12pm PetSmart and 1pm to 2pm SuperStore, each at the Smart Centre on St. Clair St. Thursday, February 8, 2024: • Retired Workers Chapter Meeting.

Keep up to date with the community, pensions, benefits and info provided from informed leadership and guest speakers. Spouses are welcome.

10:00am at the Unifor Local 127, 405 Riverview Dr., Chatham.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Become less intense 6. Variety of pear 10. Religion native to China 14. Type of tooth 15. Fitted out 17. Make every effort 19. Autonomic • Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In. nervous system 3:30-6:30pm. Come spend some time in 20. Complete a 2SLGBTQIA+ safe space 48 Centre St., 21. Alternate name Chatham. Hang out, have a coffee, do 22. River in France and your homework, ask a question, read a Belgium book, or chat about life or what we’ve 23. Miami’s mascot been working on. Get some clothes is one from our Out of the Closet program, use 24. Turfs the Community cupboard & more! No 26. Most cognizant of RSVP needed! Come & go as you please. reality All ages & allies welcome.

29. Broad volcanic crater • The Chatham Legion, corner of 31. Canadian surname William & Colborne St. Chatham open 32. Satisfaction 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for 34. Traitorous Greek lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Come check mythological prince out our daily specials. Senior Euchre 35. Collide starts at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

37. Immune response 38. Feline • Merlin Legion Br. 465. 519-689-4884.

39. High opinion of Jam Session from 1-4:30pm. All are welone’s own appearance come to attend with a donation of $2.

40. Thin strip to align New - 1-lb wing special with fries $8.85 parts + tax = $10.00, homemade panzerotti + 41.

Containers menu available from 4-7pm.

43. Convicted American spy Are you affected by someone else’s 45.

Breathe noisily drinking? Al-anon can help!

46. Taxi Call - leave message - 519-350-3462 47. Pancakes made from buckwheat flour Alcoholics Anonymous, we can help!

49. Swiss river Information Line 519-360-5246.

50. I.M.__, architect 53. Have surgery Send your events to bruce@chathamvoice.com or This week’s puzzle michelle@chathamvoice.com answers found on page 19

Ask about our Move In Special • 24 Hour Health Care Supervision • Delicious Home Cooked Meals • Scheduled Activities

57. Formal withdrawal 58. Dutch and German surname 59. Square measures 60. 2,000 lbs.

61. Degrade someone CLUES DOWN 1. Siberian river 2. Blessing 3. Substitutes (abbr.)

4. Principle underlying the universe 5. Work unit 6. Yellow edible fruits 7. Gemstone 8. A place ships dock (abbr.)

9. Evergreen tropical tree 10. Reality TV star Richards 11. Nonflowering aquatic plant 12. Stakes 13. Antidiuretic hormone 16. Make warm again

Come for a tour and receive a

FREE LUNCH

97 McFarlane Ave., Chatham | Contact us at 519-354-7111 for your personal tour.

18. Light beams 22. Lethal dose 23. Terrorist group 24. Kids love him 25. Naturally occurring solid 27. German surname meaning “man from Saxony” 28. Popular cuisine 29. Partner to cheese 30. Type of horse 31. __ Diego 33. Defensive nuclear weapon 35. Most shrewd 36. It may be for shopping 37. Midway between south and southeast 39. A stock of foods 42. The bindings of books 43. Swiss river 44. Megabyte 46. Sammy __, songwriter 47. Dutch colonist 48. Clare Booth __, American writer 49. Sun or solar disk 50. Popular type of bread 51. Transfers of money (abbr.)

52. Association of engineering professionals 53. Young women’s association 54. City 55. Niger-Congo branch of languages 56. Pointed end of a pen

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 17

Business

Martinrea closes its Dresden plant The Chatham Voice

Up to 60 long-term employees are losing their jobs as Martinrea International closes its auto parts plant in Dresden.

Unifor Local 127 National Representative Jeff McFadden said the company notified workers several weeks ago but only went public with the information last week.

McFadden was “shocked” by the news when the company informed him a year and a half ago.

Workers at the plant were providing parts to Stellantis in Windsor. The company, in a statement to the media, said three contracts, including the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300C, ended.

It supplied most of the work at the Dresden facility. McFadden said the vehicles were “coming to

the end of their run” and Stellantis is making major changes, most notably moving into the electric vehicle market.

“They did not renew their contract,” said McFadden.

“There was no new work to go into Dresden to replace the work that they had,” he said, adding he believed the company did try to find more work to keep the facility open.

Any remaining contracts from Dresden will be transferred to the company’s Ridgetown facility.

McFadden said the tradespeople in Dresden were long-time employees and made what would be considered mid-range

wages for the auto parts industry.

Unifor has not yet set up a help centre for the workers. McFadden said there are a number of companies hiring in the area and he’s passing along the opportunities to the workers.

Most of the workers were laid off just before Christmas. A little more than a dozen people continue to work inside the plant to wrap up production. It’s not clear how long they will be there.

– Heather Wright, Petrolia Independent Pork conference slated for Feb. 21

Ridgetown has been chosen as the site of the 60th annual Southwestern Ontario Pork Conference to be held Feb. 21, 2024.

The theme of the year’s event is “Moving Forward,” designed

Martinrea’s Dresden plant is getting idled due to lack of work.

to showcase new ideas in benchmarking, barn renovations and more.

“It’s all about keeping producers informed and up to date while providing a place for industry reps to visit with their customers,” said Darren Sloan, chair of the 2024 SWOPC Planning Committee.

Held at the University of Guelph’s Ridgetown Campus, the conference will feature presentations

by Ryan Martin of RFW Farms Ltd., OMAFRA team members Laura Eastwood and Steve Bea-

dle, Dr, Greg Wideman from South West Vets, Ryan Tenbergen from Demeter Veterinary Services and Matt Davis from Hord Family Farms in Ohio.

Numerous industry sponsors are stepping up to make the event happen and participants are encouraged to visit the trade show area, where complimentary refreshments will be served. Swine barns tours and an evening social are also on the agenda.

Conference information and registration can

Chatham Voice image

be viewed at ridgetown. com/swopc. The event also features a pork dinner.

For more information, including sponsorship opportunities, call 1-866222-9682 or e-mail lelgie@ uoguelph.ca.

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

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 18

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The Chatham Voice

Reading is fun – and it can be even more fun in a competitive way.

That’s the idea behind the second annual Clash of the Classrooms Reading Challenge hosted in partnership with Chatham-Kent Public Library and Lambton County Library.

Through this program, both library systems hope to strengthen students’ love of reading.

Elementary and secondary school classes are currently being invited to participate in the Clash.

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COUNTRY LIVING DESCRIBES THIS AND SERENE QUIET PROPERTY SURROUND

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The Ontario government is investing $7.5-million over the next three years to mitigate the risks of old and inactive oil and gas wells.

Nine municipalities, including Chatham-Kent, will benefit from the funding that will be used to enhance emergency preparedness within their communities and prevent emergencies.

A total of $2 million will be dispersed in the first year.

According to a government media release, Ontario currently has 27,000 abandoned wells on record, most located in rural areas.

The greatest need for mitigation is found in southwestern Ontario where local geology and naturally occurring petroleum resources can pose risks to public health and safety and the environment.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry administers the Abandoned Works Program, which supports the plugging of old and inactive wells that pose a risk and supplies funding to landowners.

The Wheatley explosion in August 2021 is a case where gas from an old well wreaked havoc on a community, injuring two people. The incident has cost the municipality millions of dollars to manage, leading to countless hours of intervention, as well as numerous evacuations that kept many people out of their homes.

It is unknown how Chatham-Kent will spend their funding allotment as no answer to the question was received as of press time.

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Happy 70th Birthday Susan Bienstman January 30th

For Sale

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Everyday/ Holidays.

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

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

Ministry

Redeemer of Love Ministry has a Christian male support group for males struggling with sexual addiction. Coffee and bible study weekly.

Prayer line open 12am-7pm daily and a fellowship pot sharing meal on Sundays at 6pm.

A house based ministry call Doug for more info 519354-3532, if not in, leave a message, your call will be returned.

Place your classified ad starting at only $6.00 plus tax!

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2024

Enjoy Your Favourite Places, or Try Something New!!

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

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April 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Caesars Windsor Casino May 27 - June 2 . . . . . . . . . Branson / Ozark Tour June 10,11,12 . . . . . . . . . . Shipshewana, Indiana featuring the Midwest’s largest outdoor flea market June 26, 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . Shipshewana, Indiana featuring Oakridge Boys farewell concert July 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bright, Ontario with lunch at Quills, and show at Walters Music Venue “Suns & the Stars” August 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bright, Ontario with lunch at Quells, and show at Walters Music Venue “Dion Pride”, tribute to Charlie Pride August 22 . . . . . . . . . . Caledonia River Boat Cruise August 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Port Dover, Ontario lunch at Erie Beach Hotel, “Lakefront Show” September 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Petrolia, Ontario lunch and show “Fiddler On The Loose” October 21 - 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pigeon Forge & Nashville, Tennessee November 13 . . . . . . . . .Brantford, Ontario - lunch, Windmill Market & Walters Family Christmas Show November 25 . . . . One Of Kind Craft Show, Toronto November 28 . . . . . . . . . Petrolia, Ontario - lunch, show “Starbright Christmas” December 15 . . . . . . . . . Petrolia, Ontario - lunch, show “Holiday Jamboree”

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Loans

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

THE CHATHAM VOICE

Classifieds Obituaries

Obituaries

It is with tremendous sadness the family of Eleanor Reeve announce her unexpected passing on Friday, January 19, 2024 at the age of 72. She was born Eleanor Tompkins on February 7th, 1951 to the late James & Norma (nee Hodgson) Tompkins. Eleanor will forever be missed by her two children, Bridgett Bailey & Brian Bailey (Judy), who she was a devoted and proud mother of. Remembered always by her grandchildren, James, Samantha, & Simon. Dear sister of Barb Gagner and predeceased by her sister’s, Wanda & Ruthie. She will be dearly missed by her boyfriend, Dave Tulp. Eleanor was well known for the Home Hunting Guide of the Chatham Daily News for over 25 years. After retirement, she dedicated her time to Loads of Love and most recently, the smiling face greeting you at Frick’s Fish & Chips.

She enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and also enjoyed having lunches out with her close friends. Bridgett and Brian would like to personally thank all of her friends who made our mom laugh and made her life special. Family to receive friends on Wednesday, February 7th, 2024 at the McKinlay Reception Centre, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham from 2:00 - 5:00 pm.

Words of Remembrance will be shared at 3:30 pm. Cremation has taken place. In memory of Eleanor, in lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a memorial donation are asked to consider the Chatham-Kent Animal Rescue. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

Robert Gene Martens passed away at the age of 91, on Sunday January 14, 2024 at Riverview Gardens, surrounded by his family. Robert is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Julia Anna (Schouppe), his daughters Elaine (John Macevicius) of Penticton, BC, and Michelle (Brian Toll) of Chatham, by grandchildren Vic, Renee and Allison, by two siblings, Alice (Boussen) and Agnes (Deketelaere) and by numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws. He is predeceased by siblings Eugenia (Staal), Tony, Joe, Alphonse, Mary (VandeWynckel), Willy, infant brother, Theophil, and numerous in-laws. Funeral Mass will take place Thursday February 1, 2023 at 11 am at Blessed Sacrament Parish. Donations may be made in Robert’s memory to the Chatham-Kent Hospice. Online condolences can be directed to www.lifetransitions.ca

Notice FARM PROPERTY FOR SALE BY TENDER

Part Lot 24, Concession 11, Dover now described as Parts 3 and 6 Plan 24R-11333; Chatham-Kent containing 75.13 acres workable, more or less, with a Clay Loam soil. The property is randomly tiled and has been organically farmed for over 20 years with crops of tomatoes, sweet corn, peas, hay, snap beans, soy beans and corn. The storage shed on the property is to be removed at the sole option of the Vendor prior to closing. For information regarding the property please contact 519-401-0750.

All tenders shall be submitted in the prescribed form, available from the undersigned solicitor, and shall be delivered in writing, sealed, to Anderson Law Group, attention Lindsey A. Anderson, 444 William Street North, Chatham, ON N7M 5K1 (Chatham Armoury), no later than February 29, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. All tenders are to be accompanied by a certified cheque or bank draft for $10,000 payable to Anderson Law Group, in trust. Unsuccessful tender cheques will be returned.

The sale of the property is to close on or before March 15, 2024 or such earlier or other time as may be agreed to by the Parties thereto.

The Vendor is not obligated to accept the highest or any tender.

HST shall be in addition to the purchase price.

To obtain the tender documentation please contact: Anderson Law Group 44 William Street North Chatham, ON N7M 5K1 (Chatham Armoury) Contact number 519-397-2889 Contact email: anderson@alglaw.ca

Visit chathamvoice.com

In Memoriam

Geraldine “Geri” Marilyn Butler

1942 - 2019 5 years ago

Hole in my Heart To keep on going since you’ve gone The hardest thing I’ve ever done.

I wear a mask from day to day, and try to cope in my own way.

I’ll miss you ‘til we meet again, And long for you each day till then.

There’s now a hole, no one can fill, within my heart . . . I love you still!!!

Al

Paul H Belanger 1950-2004

PAGE 19

Lawrence Swainston Wednesday, January 17, 2024 Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Edgar Weber 97, Wednesday, January 17, 2024 Life Transitions

Janice Elise Shaw 68, Saturday, January 20, 2024 Badder Funeral Home

James Vande Caveye 64, Tuesday, January 16, 2024 Life Transitions

Stan Mahood 86, Monday, January 22, 2024 Badder Funeral Home

Mildred Hoesktra (Koning) 81, Sunday, January 21, 2024 Life Transitions

Yvette Bulckaert 93, Sunday, January 21, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Tari Desveaux 74, Tuesday, January 23, 2024 Life Transitions

Harris Oickle 88, Saturday, January 20, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Bessie Moore (Cable) 78, Tuesday, January 23, 2024 Life Transitions

Eleanor Reeve 72, Friday, January 19, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Cieran Inkster 53, Sunday, January 7, 2024 Nicholls Funeral Home

Betty Ann Braekevelt Monday, January 22, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Peter Doddy 100, Friday, January 19, 2024 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Stephen Brown 53, Monday, January 22, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Skylar DaCosta 28, Wednesday, January 24, 2024 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

George Mouissie 54, Monday, January 22, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Cameron Fulkerson 75, Thursday, January 18, 2024 Blenheim Community Funeral Home

June Doreen Rouse Monday, January 22, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Judy Beaubien 75, Sunday, January 21, 2024 Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Joanne Verhoog Tuesday, January 23, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Beverly”Joy” Johnston 87, Thursday, January 25, 2024 Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Jeffery Lee Taylor 63, Sunday, January 21, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

See full obituaries at chathamvoice.com/obituaries

4 Victoria Ave, Chatham (519) 352-2390

alexanderfuneralhome.ca

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Serving Kingsville, Wheatley & Chatham

245 Wellington St. W., Chatham 519-352-2710

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Generations of Families Continue To Place Their Trust With Us

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PAGE 20

THE CHATHAM VOICE

News

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

Kent Ag noms open The Chatham Voice

Contributed image

Brothers Gary and Stevie Labadie play on an outdoor rink in Percy Park on Croydon Street in Chatham back in 1968. At the time, Chatham firefighters flooded the rink for area residents to enjoy skating and playing hockey outdoors.

Know a resident who has made an outstanding contribution to agriculture or rural affairs locally and beyond?

Now’s your opportunity to commemorate their achievements by nominating them to be inducted into the Kent Agricultural Hall of Fame.

Those nominated should be people who have demonstrated unselfish achievement in the realm of agriculture, be it a family member, friend, neighbour, co-worker. Those nominated can be living or deceased.

Every year, three to five deserving individuals are

named to the hall with a special induction celebration held in November.

To date, 206 of Kent County’s most accomplished individuals in the agricultural community, including those in primary production, extension and research, education, government, business and stewardship, have been recognized.

For more information and to obtain a nomination form, visit the Kent Agricultural Hall of Fame website at chatham-kent. ca/aghof. You can also call Kathryn Vanek at 519683-2929 or message her online at jvanek@ciacces. com.

Deadline is March 31.