The Chatham Voice, March 14, 2024

By

Making it up as they go along

Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Chatham-Kent Secondary School’s improv team has skills.

So much so, the eight-member club recently clinched the TriCity Canadian Improv Games title beating the best improv teams from schools across

Southwestern Ontario.

The club is the first-ever Lambton Kent District School Board team to win. Now, the CKSS improvisers are getting ready to take the stage at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa March 29 to compete against top teams from across the nation.

Teacher Karen St. Peter-Catton, who has been coaching the

improv club for 20 years after school, said the group works well together.

“This team has been dynamic,” she said. “They work collectively, rather than individually.”

When performing improv, students have to be lightning quick. After a referee chooses a topic – which can be anything from an animal to something in Shakespearian style to a musical – the team is given 10 seconds to huddle and hatch a plan before they hit the stage. The performances have certain parameters for content as well, meaning they can’t include bits that demean or are offensive.

The team is comprised of Grade 12 students Spencer Simpson and Riley Lawton; Grade 11 students Kennedy Grant, Alivia Hillman, Nanami Shaw and Emma Wigfield, as well as Grade 9 students Josh White and Finn Andruchow.

When asked by The Voice as to why they joined the extra-curricular club, some said they already loved dramatic arts; others said they wanted to meet new friends; and some said they just wanted to have fun.

Simpson, who is heading to York University next year to study theatre, is already making a name for himself. At the Tri-City competition, he garnered the Spirit of the Games award.

Simpson hails from a theatrical family. After watching professional improv, told himself he could do it too.

“It’s a very niche thing,” Simpson said of improv. “Very few people know about it.”

Lawton said he was attracted to the club as he wanted to be part of C-K theatre since he was a child.

“I was encouraged to do it and I really like it,” Lawton said. “And it’s a really good outlet.” Team member Grant said she was inspired to join in Grade 9 when she saw a performance by the team.

“I’ve always had an appreciation for performing and it’s what I want to do for a future career,” Grant explained. “It’s live performance and it’s rad.” Hillman said she didn’t know much about improv before joining, but said she has learned a great deal from being in the club.

“It’s taught me so much more, outside of school and a club,” Hillman said, noting it’s helped her become more open minded and a better listener.

“In improv, you have to be open and willing to change your opinion to make the scene go on,” she added. “It’s the same with life.”

Shaw, who participates in many other extra-curricular activities, said she joined the improv club because it is fun.

Wigfield said she considers improv to be her “second home. “This is my chosen family,” Wigfield said.

Anyone wishing to donate to the team’s Ottawa trip can email Kimberly.Jeffrey@lkdsb. net.

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Six members of the eight-person Chatham-Kent Secondary School improv team perform a skit about the horse.

CKHA CEO to retire in summer

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

After seven years leading the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) and 39 years in health care, Lori Marshall is calling it quits.

Marshall, president and CEO of CKHA, announced her retirement recently, and will step down this summer.

Deb Crawford, chair of the hospital board, said she will be “very, very” missed.

“She has always been an inspiring leader who has always been dedicated to our community, our community’s health and to the staff at the hospital,” Crawford said. “She has inspired innovation and she has come through very tough times. When things get tough, you really do see how a person can manage situations and problem solve. Lori has shone.”

If Marshall were the captain of a Great Lakes freighter, it would be safe to say she skillfully navigated the good ship CKHA to avoid dangerous shoals through a November gale. Or two.

Firstly, she joined the CKHA as boss in 2017, selected when Rob Devitt, a provincially appointed supervisor, was overhauling

the CKHA leadership and its hospital boards.

The infighting of the boards and questionable operational practices by some of the top brass led to the province stepping in. Staff morale was low, and finances were in short supply.

Marshall credited staff and physicians for leading the way out of that low point.

“As challenging as those days were, there was an incredible team here who offered high-quality care who were very easy to work with,” she said. “There are two key things I think about when I think about that experience: There never was a question about the quality of care that was delivered, or the quality of individuals – the staff, the physicians and the volunteers. What was easy in those days was to work alongside such wonderful people who wanted to make changes and make improvements.”

As the health alliance navigated its way to calmer waters, another storm blew in. The pandemic.

“It was definitely something we all experienced together,” she said. “I’ve often said there

is nowhere else I would rather have been through the pandemic. I believe really strongly that we saved lives here.”

Through it all, Marshall has been a champion of operating CKHA in transparency to the media and, by extension, the public.

“Transparency is something that I often equate with accountability. It is something that I believe is well ingrained in our organization,” she said.

“For people to come and receive care from the hospital, they need to trust the hospital.”

Marshall said she’ll miss being with the CKHA.

“Serving as CEO of CKHA has truly been the honour of my career. This is a community I love; this is a hospital that I love,” she said.

“Everyone who works, practises and volunteers within this organization, and everyone who needs us, has been so important to the community.”

More opposition to proposed landfill north of Dresen

The Chatham Voice Environmental Defence Canada has joined the fight against a landfill expansion proposed near Dresden.

The non-profit, that’s advocated for the environment since 1984, issued a statement March 7 joining the groundswell of opposition to the regenerative recycling facility/landfill proposal by York 1 at 29831 Irish School Rd.

The endangered eastern spiny softshell turtle is among the list of 33 species at risk currently found in the bio-diverse east branch of the

Sydenham River.

On behalf of the environment and the Dresden community, Environmental Defence Canada is calling on the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks to reject the application by York1 Environmental Waste Solutions to install and expand a dump site north of the town due to the potential risk to the environment.

“The proposed dump site is located adjacent to Molly’s Creek, a naturally fed, spring-origin creek that flows into the nearby Sydenham River. If the dump is built, toxic substances and

She said she and her family will continue to live in Chatham-Kent.

In terms of finding a replacement, Crawford said they will search internally and externally, “Finding someone to fill Lori’s shoes will be a big job for the board. We’ve tried to identify an executive search agency,” she said. “We’re hoping to be able to have the process completed by the time that Lori is

wastewater runoff from the dump could leach into Molly’s Creek and eventually transfer into the Sydenham. This will contaminate critical habitats and kill some of Ontario’s rarest species such as the spiny softshell turtle and salamander mussel, pushing them closer towards the brink of extinction,” the document states.

Environmental Defence Canada is also asking the government to reject the proposal on behalf of the traditional territories of the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabeg, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat.

retiring.”

Marshall joined the alliance from the Erie St. Clair Community Care Access Centre where she served as CEO.

A pharmacist by trade, she had previous hospital leadership experience having been CEO at Nipigon District Memorial Hospital, as well as serving as vice-president at Oshawa General Hospital and Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.

Lori Marshall

Conflicting stories on York1 property

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Concrete plans by York1 to expand the landfill and build a regenerative recycling facility north of Dresden have never been disclosed to the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.

That’s the word from C-K general manager of community development Bruce McAllister.

At the March 4 council meeting, McAllister was asked a number of questions regarding plans by the Mississauga-based company that have brought the residents of Dresden to a boiling point.

Following queries from North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville, McAllister said there were “a couple of high-level” discussions

with York1 around the time the company purchased the property in 2022. However, despite an ask from the municipality about the plan, there was no follow-up, McAllister explained, noting Chatham-Kent only became aware of the “full scope” of the Dresden project when the applications were posted on the Environmental Registry of Ontario in late January.

“I think it’s important to note that the municipality regularly takes calls and inquiries from potential investors,” he told council, adding the first step is generally to arrange an initial meeting and gather information and “frankly to listen.”

Following that, McAllister said, C-K asked York1 “on a couple of occasions”

to provide information regarding the overall scope of the plan, what was needed in terms of provincial approvals and its public consultation process.

“I can say that none of these additional details were ever received in advance of receiving the initial ministry posting notice that was received a couple of weeks ago,” McAllister affirmed.

“I do want to highlight, to date, there’s not been a formal planning pre-consultation with staff and no planning applications have been filed yet with the municipality,” he said, adding York1 has never come before council.

However, what the company is saying differs with McAllister’s comments. At a public information forum Mar. 1 at which

hundreds of residents attended, company officials said York1 has had “numerous” interactions with municipal leadership about expansion plans at Dresden.

York1 currently has two applications before the province to amend existing permits. The first asks for permission for a regenerative recycling facility able to accept a maximum of 6,000 tonnes of non-hazardous waste per day, including soil and construction and demolition waste. The application asks the facility be permitted to run around the clock, seven days a week.

The second application asks the government to amend the existing landfill permit to allow an eight-hectare landfill that

can accept 365,000 tonnes of waste per year.

Estimates of daily truck traffic to the site ranges from 150 to 700 trucks per day.

Following a unanimous decision by council Feb. 26 asking the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MOECP) to reject the proposal, Mayor Darrin Canniff sent a letter to Minister Andrea Khanjin. The letter asks that if the MOECP approves the project, a full environmental assessment be conducted to determine potential impacts, to be completed before a final decision is made.

McAllister said an outside consultant has been brought in and the municipality is currently preparing submissions to the province in opposition to

the York1 applications.

Comment on the first closes March 16. The deadline for comment on the landfill expansion –posted only recently – is due April 11.

McAllister said a media release will follow C-K’s first submission and a report will come back to council following the second submission.

Both Jubenville and fellow North Kent Coun. Jamie McGrail said they are grateful for the mayor’s letter. Jubenville added that she wanted to dispel “rumours or misinformation” currently circulating in the community regarding a lack of transparency. McGrail stressed the public needs to make their concerns known and can do so by providing comment online.

Group enlists aid of NDP, Liberals

Dresden C.A.R.E.D. group files FOIs

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Opposition to York1’s plan to create a regenerative recycling facility near Dresden is expected to reach the Ontario Legislature this week.

According to Stefan Premdas, chair of the newly formed Dresden Citizens Against Reckless Environmental Disposal (C.A.R.E.D), Ontario Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie and provincial NDP environment critic Sandy Shaw have agreed to bring the matter forward during question period.

According to Premdas they’ll be asking Premier Doug Ford why the government isn’t adhering to the legislation it passed under Bill 197. Under an omnibus bill passed in 2020, municipalities have the right to reject a landfill proposal under the Environmental Assessment Act if the new landfill is within 3.5 kilometres of a municipal border.

The York1 Dresden project qualifies, Premdas told The Chatham Voice, as Lambton County and the Township of Dawn-Euphemia have officially joined the Municipality of Chatham-Kent to ask the province to reject the project.

“This amendment to the EAA would provide municipalities with the unprecedented ability to stop new landfills for any reason,” Premdas said, “even where the environmental assessment for that landfill would otherwise be satisfactory to the provincial government. When is the Premier and the Ministry of Environment going to follow the legislation and kill this project?”

Under Section 10 of the bill, it states that municipal support “must be obtained, not only from the local municipality in which the landfilling site is situated, but from any other municipality located within the 3.5-kilometre distance from the property boundary of the proposed landfilling site.” The support, as laid out in the bill, must be demonstrated by providing a copy of a supporting municipal council resolution from each affected municipality.

Mississauga-based York1, a demolition and construction waste recycling company, currently has two applications before the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MOECP) for amendment. The first one is to increase the waste facility and daily waste-receiving rate of non-hazardous material at the site to a maximum of 6,000 tonnes. The second is to expand the capacity of the landfill approvals.

The company is asking that the ministry allow it to operate the facility 24-7. Estimates of daily truck traffic range from 120 to 700 per day.

Premdas, a resident of Dresden for the last 10 years, knows about environmental protection as he ran for the Green Party in Toronto Centre in 2010. He said Dresden C.A.R.E.D. has been hard at work putting forward Freedom of Information requests and perusing peer-reviewed studies on similar regenerative recycling facilities in New Zealand and Germany.

“We didn’t just start screaming, we did our research,” he stressed.

After looking into the projects, Premdas said the threat that dangerous chemicals

could leach from the operations, particularly related to soil washing and remediation, is real.

In their two meetings with the public, York1 officials have downplayed possible dangers, stating the new facility is environmentally friendly.

Unbeknownst to Chatham-Kent, a water and wastewater plan for leachate ponds at the site has already been approved by the ministry without comment from the public, or approval from Chatham-Kent. The application was made in November 2023.

Premdas said C.A.R.E.D. is not blaming the municipality for backroom deals with York1, noting members of the group met with council after the information was made public online in late January.

“I genuinely believe that neither Mayor Darrin Canniff or council knew,” he said. “They were shocked. They could not fake that.”

Both York1 applications are open for public comment online on the Environment Registry of Ontario. The deadline for the first closes March 16, and the second April 11.

Chatham Voice file photo

Dresden C.A.R.E.D., a group of citizens opposed to the proposed recycling/landfill development of a former pallet recycling yard on Irish School Road, say municipal opposition to the project should stop it in its tracks.

Opinion

Just who is telling the truth?

The issue of the proposed York1 recycling and landfill proposal near Dresden is quickly becoming one of credibility.

At a March 1 public meeting, York1 officials allege that Mayor Darrin Canniff knew about their plan to revive the Dresden dump in December of 2022.

Municipal officials have said while there was limited contact with the company after it had purchased the site in 2022, Chatham-Kent had no knowledge of the firm’s plans until they were posted on the province’s website.

Projects of this magnitude (a 24/7 operation landfilling 365,000 tonnes of material per year) don’t happen overnight, nor are they scribbled on the back of a napkin.

If York1 was negotiating with the municipality, a Freedom of Information request filed by The Voice, and others will find that correspondence. There will be consequences for misleading the public, for York1 or Chatham-Kent. Council has flatly rejected York1’s proposal and in an unusually strongly worded letter to the province, Canniff accused the firm of taking advantage

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).

of outdated ministry approvals issued decades ago.

Dresden residents, angered by the site’s proximity to the community (less than two kilometers from the downtown), potential environmental impact, increased traffic, and other issues appear united in their opposition.

They won’t be bought off by proposals of questionable economic benefits.

Adding to York1’s image issues was how it handled its March 1 public meeting.

Instead of allowing residents to sit and ask questions, the firm opted for “information stations” throughout the facility.

This type of “interaction” with the public has been used by wind turbine firms, by the municipality, in healthcare discussions, and others as a way of “engaging” the public without directly answering questions.

In each instance we’ve observed, members of the public come away frustrated and feeling as if the presenters had something to hide.

We expect that there is much more the public needs to know about this project, and the sooner the better.

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Editor: A story in the most recent edition of the Chatham Voice, “C-K seeks to cut our trash output,” has prompted me to respond. I only have three words – it’s about time. This is something that should have been implemented well before now.

I was very disappointed after moving here recently to learn that each household had a threebag limit for garbage on a weekly basis. I was

astonished. No wonder there has been a 25-per-cent increase generated by our location alone in the last 10 years. We need this green bin program instituted ASAP. In the meantime, perhaps we could at least start helping by increasing the schedule for recycling pickup to weekly instead of every other week –forcing us to be a little more proactive.

If the lettering “recycling matters” on the sides of those boxes means anything, then we should be putting our money where our mouth is.

Let’s all work harder to lessen the amount of garbage we create.

It’s only a benefit to everyone now and in the future.

Sharon Hills Chatham

Editor: I’m not surprised to see that many people in Chatham did not see or chose to disregard the instructions about putting furniture out to the curb for garbage pick up. Unfortunately, the town is beginning to look like a ghetto.

I pity the poor workers who will eventually be disposing of these items. I’m sure by the time those mattresses, couches and the like are picked up, they will be infested with mice and rats.

I don’t understand why, if these things are in good shape, one of the various thrift stores isn’t called for pick up for donation?

Julie Gautreau Chatham

Improvements needed in Chatham

Editor: I have just been down memory lane. What memories and what a lane. I’ve been viewing my late husband’s home movies he took on 8mm tape from 1959-2017 and transferred them all to VHS tapes; 38 of them.

My main story is one I viewed taken in 2007. We moved to Chatham from Wallaceburg, so we spent one day walking a lot of Chatham. He taking the movies, and I was really seeing Chatham as it was then.

Move statue to the ballpark

Editor: With the Chatham senior baseball team making a comeback, and our new semi-pro team starting play this year, I would like to see the Fergie Jenkins statue moved to a place where many more people would have an opportunity to view it. His namesake ball dia-

mond seems like the perfect place. There are also many schools and minor baseball teams that use the diamond. I have talked to many Chatham-Kent residents, and all agree with the idea of the relocation.

Jim Brown Chatham

C-K, PAWR sign on for 3 more years of animal control

The Chatham Voice Chatham-Kent has inked a three-year $3.7-million contract with Pet and Wildlife Rescue (PAWR) to provide animal control and pound services for all of Chatham-Kent. The agreement includes the leasing of the animal shelter on Park Avenue East in Chatham, and Arnold Street in Wallaceburg until 2027.

PAWR, which became a non-profit agency in 2014, has been providing a wide range of services to Chatham-Kent for a number of years, taking over the role of animal

Sorry to say, we have more garbage now. When school is in, Grand Avenue West from 7-Eleven to the Pines becomes a mess.

But the one thing worse is Tecumseh Park. Those

lovely trees and bushes are missing, plus the beautiful flowers and pond.

It makes me think now the city could not find enough people to work even then, to keep it up,

looking good. Especially recently when I read our mayor was talking to a businessman who had 40 job vacancies he could not fill. But of course they didn’t print who the business owner was.

Yes, Chatham has definitely gone down since 2007, and right now the roads are in a terrible state. We need a change.

Ruth Draper Chatham

control for C-K in 2019. It runs 365 days a year, with the help of 12 staff and more than 40 volunteers. In the name of promoting animal welfare, PAWR runs a pet food bank, handles wildlife issues when volunteers are available, hosts micro-chip clinics, offers spay and neuter programs when grants are available, lends out traps and carriers, and carries out public awareness campaigns. Included in the contract is the option to extend the agreement for an additional two years for $2.7 million.

New minister adjusting to new climates

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Rev. Martin Mwale says his beliefs align perfectly with the United Church of Canada’s quest for social justice.

That’s what led the Zambian-born ordained minister to his new post leading the Rural United Pastoral Charge in Chatham-Kent.

“Social justice is so important,” Mwale said in an interview with The Voice. “I chose the United Church because I wanted to be part of this global movement that uses theology to bring about justice in the world.

“There is so much hate and so much war,” the minister said. “The world needs healing.”

Known colloquially as Rev. Martin, the 35-year-old father of three

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

They say if you want something done, to ask a busy person. Kim Pierce has been our in-house hairstylist at the Funeral Home for over 30 years. We are so lucky to have her on our team. Kim is very talented and can accommodate almost any hairstyling request, be it a specific hairstyle, trim, wig placement or dye job. She is always VERY accommodating and makes herself available 7 days a week to assist families on top of her already busy schedule. In addition to her top-notch talent and superior time management skills, Kim is simply a wonderful person. Her positive attitude, sunny disposition and professionalism always brighten up our day (or early morning or night)! Thank you Kim for the thousands of families you have served throughout your time with us.

Trust the Professionals.

Rev. Martin

Zambian

holds a Bachelor of Theology degree from Justo Mwale University in Zambia and a Master of Arts in Theology specializing in the ethics of dignity and Christian social services from the Protestant Theological University in the Netherlands. He was ordained in 2013 and has worked in Africa as a congregational minister since that time.

“Social justice is so important. I chose the United Church because I wanted to be part of this global movement that uses theology to bring about justice in the world..”

Day in 2023. “It was an amazing way to start life in Canada,” said the new Canadian. The family then moved to C-K and now call Blenheim home.

- Rev. Martin Mwale

Following a recent Covenanting Service, the reverend was officially welcomed as the pastor for congregations of St. Paul’s-Victoria Avenue United Church in Chatham; St. John’s Botany United Church in Kent Bridge and Turin United Church in Thamesville. Collectively, the three churches represent close to 300 local parishioners.

Appropriately, Mwale, his wife Martha, their two sons Maranatha and Martin Jr., and daughter Marianthie, arrived in Toronto on Canada

According to Mwale, Canada’s climate and the culture shock of living in a society less connected than the one he left behind are the biggest challenges he’s faced. His homeland, located in southern Africa, is warm and dry compared to the wet, cold of Southwestern Ontario.

“The climate here has been one of the surprises,” he said, but added that experiencing snow with his children has been an enjoyable experience.

his home culture emphasizes an “interwoven community” whose members are interdependent.

“There’s a bit of a difference with that,” he said.

Going forward, Mwale said he’ll continue “strengthening” the United Church of Canada’s approach to social justice by supporting the United Church’s many community outreach programs.

“We want to touch the community and be a voice for the voiceless,” Mwale explained. “Our efforts should be to improve our world, our environment, our motherland. I want to be part of this movement.”

“Our efforts should be to improve our world, our environment, our motherland. I want to be part of this movement.”

- Rev. Martin Mwale

The other noticeable difference, Mwale said, is that people in Canadian society live independently, whereas

A media release from the C-K Rural United Pastoral Charge ministry team said Rev. Martin was a “good match” for the faith-based, inclusive church community.

“We try to recognize and celebrate the diverse abilities and gifts we all bring, being empowered by the teaching of Jesus,” the release stated.

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Mwale is enjoying his time leading the Rural United Pastoral Charge in Chatham-Kent, although the

native says there are challenges.

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Prince lights up tourism awards

The Chatham Voice

Shannon Prince may be retiring, but the accolades continue for the longtime curator of the Buxton Museum and Historical Site.

On March 5, Prince earned the Luminary of the Year award at the Southern Ontario Tourism Awards in Sarnia.

The award recognizes an individual whose contributions have illuminated the tourism industry with an unmatched dedication, unwavering passion, and relentless commitment.

Prince has been a respected member of the museum community for

the past 25 years, having started as curator of the Buxton Museum in January 1999.

During her tenure, Prince became an essential part of the museum’s growth and success, earning recognition from local and international communities alike. She has devoted herself not only to this museum but to many others around the area, sharing her knowledge and expertise in numerous ways.

She has conducted extensive research on family history, provided educational tours, and served as an educator, impacting

the lives of people in and around Chatham-Kent.

Prince is also a distinguished academic, having given talks on CNN and the United Shades of America. Her contributions to the field of Underground Railroad research have been extensive, working with York University, the University of Toronto, the Underground Railroad Freedom Centre in Cincinnati, Millersville University, and several other historical organizations around the world.

Her work earned her an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Windsor.

Contributed image North Buxton’s Shannon Prince shows off the Luminary of the Year award she won recently at the Southern Ontario Tourism Awards.

Cornhole event raises $33.5K for Hospice

The Chatham Voice

Local cornhole enthusiasts hit the bulls’ eye March 2 with the inaugural Cornhole for Hospice tournament, raising $33,500 for the Chatham-Kent Hospice. The event welcomed players of all abilities to the Everest Convention Centre for a day of friendly competition and fundraising.

After round-robin play, 28 teams of two were split into two brackets based on ability and squared off in double-elimination play. Andrew Nelson and Ty Lucio of Floor Baggers took home the trophy and cash prize of $500 for

the Best of the Best bracket, while Kristy Nelson and Brandon Dionne of Half Decent won the $250 cash prize in the Best of the Rest bracket.

“We are so grateful for all of the teams who came out to support this first-time event, as well as all of the donors and sponsors who made Cornhole for Hospice such a success,” Ginny Hawken, special events chair for the C-K Hospice Foundation, said in a media release.

The event also included a 50/50 raffle with a jackpot of $3,185.

Tournament play was organized by the local cornhole league, CK

Dirty Birds, run by Darryl Lucio and Brett Castein.

For more information about the event, as well as a full list of sponsors, visit www.cornholeforhospiceck.com.

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

The Best of the Rest winners Kristy Nelson and Brandon Dionne are shown here with Katherine Stinson (special events co-ordinator for the C-K Hospice Foundation) and Darryl Lucio and Brett Castein of CK Dirty Birds, organizers of the event.

C-K career expo earns award

The Learning, Earning and Living CK Career Expo and Job Fair has put Chatham-Kent on the map once again.

For the second consecutive year, the event has garnered the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) Workforce Development and Resident Attraction – Urban Award.

The EDCO Awards of Excellence is an annual program recognizing distinctive ideas and

initiatives that can become future economic development best practices. Those awarded, are viewed as leaders in Ontario’s economic development.

Audrey Ansell, C-K’s director of community culture and connections, is grateful for the support of community partners and employers who made the event a success.

“We are proud to have earned the EDCO Workforce Development and Resident Attraction –Urban Award to further

spotlight Chatham-Kent as a place to learn, earn and live,” Ansell said in a media release.

The CK Career Expo and Job Fair helps showcase career pathways and

serves to attract talent to position Chatham-Kent for growth. The project aims to support career planning and talent building by engaging local students from Grades

7 and up and by connecting both internal and external jobseekers and employers, digitally and in-person, to meet workforce demands.

The event, held last Oc-

tober at the John D. Bradley Centre, engaged more than 2,400 students and 880 jobseekers, including bus tours from as far away as Peel Region.

The Chatham Voice

Contributed image

C-K’s Learning, Earning and Living Career Expo and Job Fair garnered the Economic Developers Council of Ontario Workforce Development and Resident Attraction – Urban Award recently. Celebrating the win at C-K council is Audrey Ansell, director of community culture and connections for the municipality; along with Jason Stubitz; Katie Vilaranda; Victoria Bodnar and Teresa Fysh; as well as Mayor Darrin Canniff.

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week - March 10-16, 2024

Your Farm, Your Family, Your Success: Safety is our Heritage Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW) is an annual campaign held the third week of March of each year. Your Farm, Your Family, Your Success is a three-year campaign celebrating farm safety across Canada.

The call to action for CASW 2024 is encouraging farmers, farm families, farm workers, and farming communities to plan for #FarmSafetyEveryday.

Commit to Farm Safety

Farm safety is about more than just being aware of hazards. It’s about engaging in conversations that reflect on the importance of farm safety. And above all, it’s about contributing to long-term changes that benefit everyone who lives and works on or visit Canadian farms. By committing to making farm safety a priority every day of the year, we can work together toward ensuring no one gets hurt on our farms.

Farm Machinery Safety

When it comes to using farm machinery, injuries can occur in the blink of an eye. Incidents like rollovers and runovers often cause serious, life-changing injuries or worse. That’s why it’s essential to remain vigilant about safety when using farm machinery. That means never allowing

ensuring bystanders like children aren’t nearby, following manufacturer guidelines on towing restrictions,

using rollover protection structures and seatbelts.

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week - March

10 Safety Tips on the Farm

1. Maintain your equipment to ensure it is operating properly.

2. Remember, farmers often turn into fields instead or roads or lanes.

3. When visiting a farm, respect the rules that the farm owner/operator has put in place.

4. Be calm and move slowly around farm animals. Don’t make loud noises or run around them.

5. Get plenty of rest.

6. Take breaks and step out of the tractor, even if only for five minutes.

7. Eat and drink plenty.

8. Always make sure someone knows where you are and what you are doing if you work alone.

9. Have a well-stocked, up-to-date First Aid Kit in an accessible area, making sure everyone on the farm is aware of its location

10. Have a daily checklist and a routine - and stick to it. You can’t always predict what will happen, but you can be prepared by taking time to plan ahead.

5 steps for conducting a farm safety analysis

Farming is one of the most dangerous occupations in the country, and with 34 per cent of farm operators now over 65 years old, Canada’s agricultural workforce is at a much greater risk of injury. In honour of Agricultural Safety Week, here’s how to conduct a job safety analysis and ensure your farm is as safe as it can be.

1. Identify the jobs. The first step is to have the farm management team make a clear list of all the jobs that need to be performed. What’s on the list will depend on the type and scale of your production.

2. Break jobs down into tasks. Each job on your list should be broken down into its component tasks. This will sometimes shed light on potential inefficiencies and hazards that previously weren’t well understood.

3. Analyze the tasks. Once each task is identified, determine the minimal physical requirements to perform each of them safely. This is also the step where potential hazards and individual risk factors should be identified.

4. Create a safety plan. It’s likely that some of the tasks identified will present hazards for anyone performing them. Or, it may be the case that the task, the equipment used to complete it or the environment where it’s carried out will need to be changed to ensure everyone’s safety.

5. Implement changes. This is when any changes deemed necessary in

the previous steps need to be implemented.It’s also crucial to follow up with workers to confirm that the changes are effective. A job safety analysis will help everyone on your farm work more efficiently and, most importantly, safely.

Keep farm safety at the top of your list as we head into a busy planting season.

Mayor Darrin Canniff

Safety Is Our Heritage

As more millennials enter Canada’s agricultural workforce, the

While growing up in the country presents many advantages, it’s important

worksites. Here are several hazards agricultural workers should protect

MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT

Children often find things like tractors interesting, and adults should make sure there aren’t any little ones around when running agricultural machinery. Kids can easily fall off a tractor they didn’t know was about to roll out, and simply being in the vicinity may be dangerous for them given that the height of some machinery restricts the operator’s vision.

LIVESTOCK

Kids don’t tend to think of livestock as dangerous, but even a normally calm and well-behaved animal can be hazardous. This is especially the case if they feel their own offspring may be in danger. Cattle, in particular, may not be able to see toddlers and could unwittingly injure them.

GRAIN

It takes only a few seconds for an adult to become trapped by falling grain, which means a child could get buried in the blink of an eye.

In addition, the dust created by falling grain can cause serious pulmonary problems, so it’s a good idea to always keep children away from grain storage and work areas.

CHEMICALS

From pesticides to fertilizers and various cleaning products, farms use a lot of dangerous chemicals. It’s extremely important that these things are stored in a building, room or cabinet that can be locked. In addition, never throw out empty containers in the regular trash as children could find them.

Finally, remember that children imitate their elders, so set a good example by always following safety procedures on the farm.

CKHA CEO earns writer’s respect

Lori Marshall, I will miss you.

It seems strange to hear a journalist say they will miss a civil servant, but that will be the case with the retiring president and CEO of the Chatham-Kent

Health Alliance. Even stranger for the head of what was once a rather secretive organization.

Yet Marshall, who retires this summer, always operated in the light while

running the alliance, unlike her predecessors.

Granted, it took the CKHA and its former boards falling into such a state of dysfunction that a provincial supervisor had to be appointed here. But

that supervisor, Rob Devitt, is the one who hired Marshall.

And I’d call that move a homerun.

Years ago, while I worked at another news outlet, we investigated

expense usage by top civil servants at various agencies and operations in Chatham-Kent. We obtained spending from municipal and school boards leaders, for example. But when we asked for the info from the CKHA, the reply was a curt “no.”

Why? Because they didn’t have to.

At the time, hospital officials could hide behind privacy laws; laws designed to protect patient confidentiality, not spending habits of hospital officials. There was nothing that actually prevented CKHA officials from divulging the requested information, but because they were not obligated, they essentially told us to take a hike.

Thankfully Freedom of Information guidelines changed in the years since. And just as thankfully, Devitt selected Marshall to run the CKHA.

As Devitt preached openness and transparency during his time as supervisor; Marshall practiced it.

Suddenly, the media was collectively invited to regular update meetings with Marshall, the chair of the hospital board, and top hospital officials. They aired pretty much everything. As the alliance and its board were rebuilt leadership-wise, we had a seat up front to watch it unfold.

Not all news was good.

In the beginning, staff morale was in the proverbial toilet. Funds were hard to come by, given how broken the previous spending model was.

Members of the media asked questions and they were openly answered. Journalists cast glances at one another, wondering when the information-sharing balloon was going to burst. It never did.

Through the pandemic, the information continued to flow, albeit through conference calls or online meetings.

From a personal level, I have always been one to share my hospital and health-care experiences with readers. I have regularly received feedback from the public on how my columns have helped them make decisions to have procedures done, or understand what they faced.

I have two replacement hips. The first came in 2015, the latter about a year ago. The first one went smoothly and the second dealt complications. I shared it all.

Last March, while recovering after my surgery, Marshall took the time to visit me in my hospital room. I can guarantee there was no sign of thenCEO Colin Patey in my room back in 2015. Let’s just say we never really saw eye to eye.

But Marshall visited, stopping in over her lunch to see how I was doing. Such efforts earn respect. She certainly didn’t have to do that.

And Janice Wilmott, director of surgery, did not have to check on me prior to my surgery last year either. But she did.

That’s the culture that has been curated under Marshall.

They care.

That compassion, for people is why I will miss Marshall the most.

Whoever replaces her has big – and transparent – shoes to fill indeed.

Bruce Corcoran

Missions team searches for outdoor projects

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Volunteers from two local churches are gearing up to help a homeowner in need this summer. All they need is the homeowner.

For more than a decade, the folks from First Presbyterian Church and First Christian Reformed Church in Chatham have joined forces to spruce up the yard or the exterior of one home a year in Chatham.

It’s all done at no cost to the homeowner, as it is just a way for volunteers and the churches to help others in the community.

Mike Maroney, minister of First Presbyterian Church, said the biggest challenge the Backyard Missions project is getting nominations.

“We just encourage people to nominate someone. You can nominate yourself,” he said. “The work just has to fit our criteria.”

That criteria are the person has to have a financial need, must own the home, live there, and have house insurance.

That’s it.

“If you’re having difficulty in paying for something, nominate yourself. We’ll chose the one that ticks all the boxes the best,” Maroney said.

The lucky homeowner will have a swarm of volunteers descend on their property for two days in August to perform an exterior makeover of sorts.

There are no strings attached and the homeowner is not out of pocket for any of it.

“We just hope we can find someone who we can help. It just transforms a house in two days,” Maroney said. “It’s a marvelous thing to see. The deserving recipients are always amazed at the amount of work that gets done.”

The work is done on the outside of the home, or in the yard. But not on the roof. The team also does not replace doors or windows.

“We paint houses. We do outside repairs. We’ve done wheelchair ramps. We’ve replaced eavestroughs. Basically anything that is exterior,” Maroney explained. “We don’t do roofs, because that’s a liability issue, and we don’t do doors or windows. That’s an area of expertise.”

Volunteers have built fences and helped with extensive landscaping changes in the past as well.

The Backyard Missions team is armed with about 40 volunteers, including several contractors.

“It’s a tremendous amount of work that gets done in two days. We have

contractors who volunteer and lend their expertise and equipment,” he said. “A problem that seems to be getting worse with a house, it is fixed in two days, and the homeowner is not a penny out of pocket.”

Support from area businesses helps fuel the projects, Maroney said.

“Local businesses help out with materials at cost.

It’s quite remarkable. They are quite happy to help,” he said. “The community is very generous. We are so thankful for that.”

Maroney said it helps the volunteers to stretch the funding for the project, or set some aside to save for the following year.

The minister is surprised there aren’t more people being nominated each year and stresses there are no strings attached.

“We do this as a practical way to show the love of Christ to members of our community,” he said. That does not include preaching church principles to the homeowner, but rather just the provision of about 80 helping hands for two days.

To learn more, visit firstchatham.org/backyard-mission/. The webpage provides specific instructions on who qualifies for this project and how to contact the organizers of the project.

“Go to our website, get the information and mail the nomination or email it to our church,” he said. “Tell us why they’re being nominated, what the difficulty is and provide the address.”

Chatham Voice file photo

Micah Vanuik and Steven Valade did some heavy lifting moving boards in preparation of building a new fence at the home of France Laprise as part of the 2023 Backyard Missions project. First Presbyterian and First Christian Reformed churches’ volunteer team is looking forward to helping another homeowner this year.

Water rates anger greenhouse owners

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Proposed increases to water and wastewater development charges will stymie agricultural growth in Chatham-Kent, say leaders within the greenhouse industry.

WHO

The increase, recommended by C-K’s Public Utilities Commission, were presented to council in a detailed report at the March 4 council meeting.

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A 10-year plan that will see $590 million in capital costs was outlined. If the changes are approved, it means C-K would be able to recoup a total of $390 million of the infrastructure development by way of the new charges. However, an increase of nearly 2,000 per cent over three years for the greenhouse industry isn’t acceptable, according to Cedarline Greenhouses president Greg Devries.

The long-time greenhouse operator was among those who made deputations at the meeting, pointing out the major contribution local greenhouse growers make to C-K’s economy.

Dresden employs more than 300 people.

Other major greenhouse operators, including Greenhill Produce and Platinum Produce, employ around 500 people, he added, noting the spinoff from C-K’s 473 acres of greenhouses has led to the creation of some 3,800 jobs, directly and indirectly.

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“For every acre of greenhouse there are seven to eight jobs created,” Devries said, adding his 106-acre operation growing sweet bell peppers and tomatoes located in Chatham and outside

“As an agriculturally based community, we should be supporting

and driving this type of growth, not putting obstacles in the way,” DeVries told council, noting he’s had a collaborative relationship with Chatham-Kent in the past. Working with the municipality led to the Truly Green partnership with Greenfield Global, as well as the major project that saw Enbridge run natural gas to the Kent Bridge area.

“We need to stop. We

need to reflect and we need to reboot this process,” Devries said. “Greenhouse growth will stop with this proposal. Let’s get back and start working together.”

In his deputation, George Dekker of Kingsville-based Mucci Farms, acknowledged the greenhouse industry is “cognizant of the need” for C-K to expand its water and wastewater services.

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Greenhouse developments will cease: owners

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But he asked that Chatham-Kent reconsider the large water and development costs, noting there’s “grave concern” around the proposed charges.

Dekker pointed out that after five years it will cost $8.36 per foot in development charges to put up new greenhouses as opposed to the current 36 cents.

“This is a 2,300 per cent increase in development charges for greenhouses,

and as such, makes the development of greenhouses practically impossible here in Chatham-Kent,” Dekker said. The increases translate to about $366,000 per acre cost of construction, Dekker added, based on a $1.5 million build.

Dekker said the Mucci group is looking at expanding in Chatham-Kent, but said the new charges have “basically closed a door” to the greenhouse industry.

Rob Petro, the energy, infrastructure and environment co-ordinator for the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers, also spoke to council stating the large increases will “present a chilling effect on future development.”

The clock is ticking when it comes to approving the changes, as the current bylaw expires March 25. Council heard that a new bylaw must be approved as the one in place cannot be extended. Council

is expected to vote on the matter March 18.

Following that, objectors will have a 40-day window to launch appeals. Council also heard that developments that don’t tap into the municipal water system, don’t have to pay development charges.

If development charges are not collected, the burden for new infrastructure will fall on ratepayers, according to Darren Galbraith, general man-

ager of the C-K PUC.

“It has to be collected somewhere to pay for the infrastructure at the end of the day,” he said. “If DC’s are not collected, the water and wastewater rates will go up, along with monthly services charges,” he said.

West Kent Coun. Lauren Anderson said she could see the benefits of the charges, but doesn’t see how she can ask an elderly person on a pension to “pay double, triple water

rates to accommodate this growth.

“We never planned for this growth and our infrastructure doesn’t allow it,” Anderson said. “It puts us in a difficult situation of how we afford that but also encourage it to happen.”

Anderson said she will continue to have conversations to find a solution as the local greenhouse industry is a “massive opportunity for Chatham-Kent.

FORM 6

Municipal Act, 2001, c 25, s. 379 (2) O. Reg 181/03, s. 5(1), Form 6

SALE OF LAND BY PUBLIC TENDER

The MUNICIPALITY OF CHATHAM-KENT

Take Notice that tenders are invited for the purchase of the land(s) described below and will be received until 3:00 p.m. local time on April 18, 2024, at the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Civic Centre, 315 King Street West, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8.

The tenders will then be opened in public on the same day as soon as possible beginning at 3:15 p.m. at the Council Chambers of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, located at 315 King Street West, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8. Tune into our Municipal Facebook page or the Chatham-Kent YouTube channel for a virtual event where the tenders will be opened live beginning as soon as possible at 3:15 p.m.

Description of Land(s)

Minimum Tender Amount

All lands are in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, the following are the geographic descriptions and municipal addresses.

1. Roll # 3650-110-004-10315 - PT LT 10, CON 8 (RALEIGH) AS IN 399716 RALEIGH. Being Elizabeth St., North Buxton. P.I.N. 00872-0094 (LT)

$11,114.36

2. Roll # 3650-140-002-30901 - PT LT 9 CON 1 RIVER THAMES SURVEY HARWICH PT 1, 24R4232; CHATHAM-KENT. Being 9641 Fairview Line., Chatham. P.I.N. 00886-0059 (LT) $19,477.45

3. Roll # 3650-240-002-51903 - LT 1 PL 807; CHATHAM-KENT. Being 42 Richard St., Ridgetown. P.I.N. 00693-0001 (LT) $27,234.43

4. Roll # 3650-260-001-16550 - RDAL BTN LT 16 CON 16 AND INDIAN RESERVE #47 ORFORD; PT RDAL BTN CON 15 AND CON 16 ORFORD AS IN OR4398; CHATHAM-KENT. Being River Trail, Bothwell. P.I.N. 00648-0002 (LT)

5. Roll # 3650-260-005-16300 - PT LT 6 CON NORTH MIDDLE ROAD ORFORD AS IN 467957; CHATHAM-KENT. Being 19816 Duart Rd., Duart. P.I.N. 00662-0194 (LT)

$11,808.33

$14,162.68

6. Roll # 3650-360-002-35910 - PT LT 14 CON 1 CAMDEN AS IN CA15643, NE OF PT 5, 599767 EXCEPT PT 1, 380728 AND 601465; DESCRIPTION MAY NOT BE ACCEPTABLE IN FUTURE AS IN CA15643; CHATHAM-KENT. Being Station Rd., Thamesville. P.I.N. 00731-0077 (LT) $10,986.16

7. Roll # 3650-410-005-47810 – PT LT 8 CON 12 CHATHAM PT 1, 24R7356; S/T 133536 AS AMENDED BY 160075; S/T CH32289 CHATHAM-KENT. Being 9576 Bush Line, Tupperville. P.I.N. 00754-0095 (LT)

8. Roll # 3650-420-027-08200 - PT LT 8 S/S HARVEY ST PL OLD SURVEY AS IN 498561; CHATHAM-KENT. Being 110 Harvey St., Chatham. P.I.N. 00506-0125 (LT)

9. Roll # 3650-420-028-19002 - PT LT 80 PL OLD SURVEY AS IN 396059 (THIRDLY); S/T EXECUTION 95-0000689, IF ENFORCEABLE; CHATHAM-KENT. Being Jahnke St., Chatham. P.I.N. 00504-0075 (LT)

10. Roll # 3650-442-004-05300 – LT 55 PL 119; CHATHAM-KENT. Being 35 Hiram St., Wallaceburg. P.I.N. 00576-0041 (LT)

11. Roll # 3650-480-002-17300 - PT LT 5 PL 428 AS IN 661564; CHATHAM-KENT. Being 24224 Winterline Rd., Pain Court. P.I.N. 00784-0137 (LT)

12. Roll # 3650-480-008-37200 - LT 45 PL 769 S/T 498816, 666058, 274685, 643051, 318206, 663844, 388313, 396731, 400913, 664880, 668566; CHATHAM-KENT. Being Dunlop Cres., Mitchells Bay. P.I.N. 00764-0382 (LT) This parcel is submerged under water.

$28,718.17

$16,505.67

Tenders must be submitted in the prescribed form and must be accompanied by a deposit in the form of a money order, bank draft, or cheque certified by a bank or trust corporation payable to the municipality (or board) and representing at least 20 per cent of the tender amount.

Except as follows, the municipality makes no representation regarding the title to or any other matters relating to the land to be sold. Responsibility for ascertaining these matters rests with the potential purchasers.

This sale is governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Tax Sales Rules made under that Act. The successful purchaser will be required to pay the amount tendered plus accumulated property taxes and any taxes that may be applicable such as the land transfer tax.

The lands do not include mobile homes situate on the lands. The municipality has no obligation to provide vacant possession to the successful purchaser. Purchasers must retain a lawyer to complete the purchase of any property for which their tender is accepted.

A copy of the prescribed form of tender is on the Municipality of Chatham-Kent website, www.chatham-kent.ca and on the website of the Government of Ontario Central Forms Repository under the listing for the Ministry of Municipal Affairs.

For further information regarding this sale and a copy of the prescribed form of tender contact:

Title Name of Municipality or Board

Amy McLellan, Manager Revenue or Matthew Torrance, Deputy Tresasurer

Address of Municipality or Board

Municipality of Chatham-Kent

315 King Street West, P O Box 640, Chatham, Ontario N7M 5K8www.chatham-kent.ca

Personal information contained on this form, collected pursuant to the Municipal Act will be used for the purposes of that Act. Questions should be directed to the Freedom of Information and Privacy Co-ordinator at the institution responsible for the procedures under that Act.

The Chatham Voice

It’s awards season around Chatham-Kent; seniors’ awards.

The municipality, as a way of showing its appreciation to C-K’s older adults, will celebrate their achievements during Senior’s Month in June with awards.

The purpose of these awards is to recognize and honour older adults aged 60-plus that have achieved significant goals and made outstanding contributions as volunteers within Chatham-Kent.

Recipients will be honoured as part of the 37th annual Senior Achievement awards.

“We are requesting the publics’ assistance,” said Mayor Darrin Canniff in a media release. “Everyone knows someone who has lent a helping hand, whether it be as part of a group or as an individual. Here is your chance to let us know about that person so we can recognize

their contributions.”

The senior awards are a tradition that goes back to the 1980s. Since that time, more than 1,000 seniors have been honoured for their contributions to the community.

Nomination forms will be available at all Chatham-Kent municipal centres, all Chatham-Kent public libraries, and all 11 seniors’ centres within the municipality. A PDF version can also be requested by emailing ckmayor@chatham-kent.ca.

Nominations can also be submitted at www.letstalkchatham-kent. ca/chatham-kent-senior-achievement-awards-2024.

The 2024 Senior of the Year will be announced during the broadcast of the Chatham-Kent Celebration of Older Adults on June 6 on Facebook and YourTV. All nominees will be recognized during this virtual event.

Deadline for receipt of nomination forms is April 5.

Nominate dedicated seniors Club raises $1,300

The Chatham Voice

The Kiwanis Club of Chatham-Kent recently held a fundraising night at Boston Pizza, raising $1,300 in the process.

The Chatham restaurant hosted

the event Feb. 25.

The funds raised will play a big role in Kiwanis endeavours to provide educational resources, organize community events, and assist families in need, officials from the service club said in a media release.

Police investigate homicide in Erie Beach

The Chatham Voice

A Windsor man was shot and killed shortly after midnight March 5 in Erie Beach.

Chatham-Kent police are releasing few details at this time.

What they are saying is emergency services were called shortly before 12:42 a.m. that morning, reporting a man suffered a gunshot wound while at a residence on Towanda Boulevard in Erie Beach.

Officers, acting on the initial information they received, secured the scene. Police say there was no additional threat to public safety.

A 40-year-old Windsor man, Michael Allard, was found deceased.

In what was initially considered a suspicious death by police was upgraded to a homicide on March 7 by police.

Police say they consider it an isolated incident with no lingering concern for public safety.

To maintain the integrity of this ongoing investigation, specific details will not be released at this time, police say, but they want your information. Police ask that anyone with information or surveillance video foot-

age related to this case to contact Det. Cole Abbott at colea@chatham-kent. ca or 519-436-6600 ext. 80262. You can provide information anonymously by submitting a tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Seed ‘borrowing’ to start March 19 at libraries

The Chatham Voice

It’s nearly seed season at the Chatham-Kent Public Library.

Starting on March 19, the Spring Seed Library will

begin to allow residents to “borrow” seeds from all branches.

CKPL Grows Seed Library will offer a variety of vegetable, herb, and flower seeds at each branch.

Last year, more than 6,300 seed packages were distributed across the municipality.

CKPL Grows Seed Library provides an opportunity for residents of

Chatham-Kent to grow healthy gardens, have access to affordable food, and create beautiful spaces in their own backyards and local communities. Members can borrow

seeds for free, save the seeds they grow, and return some of those seeds back to the library at the end of the growing season.

Gardeners are also en-

couraged to “grow a row” for Salvation Army food banks using vegetable seeds from CKPL’s Spring Seed Library. Produce can be donated at Salvation Army food banks.

Community Events

Thursday, March 14, 2024:

• Retired Workers Chapter Meeting are the perfect opportunity to enjoy coffee & baked goods & visit with friends and former fellow workers. 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.

• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In. 330-630pm. Come spend some time in a 2SLGBTQIA+ safe space 48 Centre St., Chatham. Hang out, have a coffee, do your homework, ask a question, read a book, or chat about life or what we’ve been working on. Get some clothes from our Out of the Closet program, use the Community cupboard & more! No RSVP needed! Come & go as you please. All ages & allies welcome.

• The 62nd Annual Lenten Noon Hour Interdenominational Service at Christ Church, 80 Wellington St. W., Chatham (beside the bus depot) beginning at 12:10pm until 12:35pm and will be followed by a sandwich luncheon in the parish hall. The theme this year is “The Peace That Passes All Understanding.” The speaker this week is The Rev. Paul D. Shaw. Free will offering to help Outreach within our community.

• Join us for a fun filled afternoon with a Jam Session from 1 to 4:30pm. All are welcome to attend. A donation of $2.

From 4-7: New 1-lb Wing Special with Fries $8.85 + tax = $10.00. Homemade Panzerotti + Menu available. Merlin Legion Br. 465. 519-689-4884.

• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am-9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00am–1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

• NEW Circuit Training class every Thursday at 1pm at the Active Lifestyle Centre. $3 for members $5 for non-members

Friday, March 15, 2024:

• Join us, served 4:30-7pm, for our delicious 5pc Perch or 3pc Merlickin Chicken or Combo (3pc Perch & 2pc Merlickin Chicken). Serving every Friday during Lent. Merlin Legion Br. 465. Call 519-689-4884 for details.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00 am-1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00-6:00. No orders after 5:30 pm. Tonight’s specials are Pork Loin Dinner or Fish & Chips, $13.00. Take out is also available by calling 519351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Fun Darts start at 7:00 p.m. Everyone Welcome.

• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St is a Turkey dinner with potatoes, stuffing, vegetables, coleslaw and a bun. Dine ins $14 and pickups $15. Please call 519-352-8291 daily to place an order. Everyone welcome.

Saturday, March 16, 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.

• Join us for our delicious Merlickin Chicken plus menu served 4-7pm and Appetizers from 7-9pm Entertainment: Karaoke Bob 7-11pm. Merlin Legion Br. 465. Call 519-689-4884 for details.

• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am-9:30pm. There will be a meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 3:00pm–5:30pm. Entertainment by Good Company from 4:30-9:30. Come check out our menu. Everyone Welcome.

• Euchre at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St, $10 starting at 1pm. Lunch is available from Noon to 1pm. Everyone welcome.

Sunday, March 17, 2024:

• Kiwanis Club of Chatham-Kent is sponsoring a free skate at Memorial Arena from 10-11:30am.

• Jamboree at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 1-5pm, $5. Come, enjoy and dance to the music of Hired Hand. Irish Stew will be available after 5pm.

Tuesday, March 19, 2024:

• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00am–1:30p.m. Today’s special is Spaghetti with meat sauce. Come play Euchre at 1:00 or spend the evening playing Shuffleboard or Euchre starting at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

• Dr. Neal Ferris, from UWO, is one of Ontario most important archaeologists. Over the years, he has done much to advance our knowledge of aboriginal culture hereabouts. However, his current research takes him to Nevis, in the Caribbean. He will tell us about the things he’s found there, and about colonial times on Nevis, with a focus on slavery on the island. Presentation takes place at the Cultural Centre at 7:30. The Kent Historical Society welcomes everyone.

Wednesday, March 20, 2024:

• Games Night at Bill’s Place, 48 Centre Street with CK Pride at 630pm. You are welcome to bring a game to see if others want to play it or play what we have. Light refreshments / snacks potluck.

• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00am–1:30pm. Our daily special is meat loaf Dinner. Come check out our other daily specials. We have Fun Darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Thursday, March 21, 2024:

• The 62nd Annual Lenten Noon Hour Interdenominational Service held at Christ Church, 80 Wellington St. W., Chatham (beside the bus depot) beginning at 12:10pm until 12:35pm and will be followed by a sandwich luncheon in the parish hall. The theme this year is “The Peace That Passes All Understanding.” The speaker this week is The Rev. Dr. Marg Moriyama. Free will offering to help Outreach within our community.

• Join us for a fun filled Jam Session from 1 to 4:30pm. All are welcome to attend. A donation of $2. From 4 to 7. NEW – 1-lb Wing Special with Fries $8.85 + tax = $10.00 Homemade Panzerotti + Menu available. Merlin Legion Br. 465. 519-689-4884.

• 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 1:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

• NEW Circuit Training class every Thursday at 1pm at the Active Lifestyle Centre. $3 for members $5 for non-members.

• The Chatham-Kent Quilters’ Guild meeting at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave W, Chatham. Doors open at 6:30. Meeting at 7:00 pm. Everyone is welcome, including non-members. Non-members can visit us once free of charge, however, subsequent visits will be $10 per meeting. Come and enjoy our presentations, guest speakers and all of the other fun at our meeting. You are welcome to contact us through our Facebook page or our website at www.ckquiltguild.com

• NEW Macramé class at the Active lifestyle Centre 9am Wednesdays. Registration required Contact (519)352-5633.

The Kent Bridge Minor Ball Association is now accepting Ball Registrations for ages 3–13 years, as well as Adult Slo-Pitch. Registration forms can be obtained by contacting Kathryn at 519683-2929 or on our Information Page on Facebook by searching Kent Bridge Ball. Registration Deadline is April 15th.

Art Exhibit Celebrating Women’s History Month at the Wallaceburg & District Museum. 505 King St., Wallaceburg. Exhibit can be seen the entire month of March. Tuesday to Saturday 10am-4pm.

Vendors Wanted: The Active Lifestyle Centre is still looking for vendors for our May 4 Spring Show 9am-3pm. Register before April 1 and receive $5 off your table rental! Call for info 519-352-5633.

Are you affected by someone else’s drinking? Al-anon can help! Call – leave message – 519-350-3462

Alcoholics Anonymous, we can help! Information Line 519-360-5246.

Send your events to michelle@chathamvoice.com or bruce@chathamvoice.com

Fun Stuff

7. Chest muscle (slang)

8. Nigerian City

9. Midway between south and east

10. A way to shut

11. Stop playing

12 Marshy places

13. Takes apart

14. Ten cents

CLUES ACROSS

1. Helps little firms

4. Political action committee

7. Allowed

12. Olivia Colman played one

15. Open

16. He had a notable lamp

18. Promotional material

19. Domesticated animal

20. Larry and Curly’s buddy

21. The best ever

24. TV network

27. Checked for

30. Dry or withered

31. Expression of annoyance

33. Dash

34. Fifth note of a major scale

35. A secret clique

37. Partner to cheese

39. __ school: where to learn healing

41. City in ancient Syria

42. Gasteyer and de Armas are two

44. Established practice

47. Thanksgiving side dish

48. District in Peru

49. It’s becoming more prevalent

50. State in India

52. Measure of illumination

53. Raised platform

56. Japanese warrior

61. R.L. Stevenson novel

63. Transitory

64. Advanced degree

65. Fiddler crabs

CLUES DOWN

1. Prevent from seeing

2. Czech city

3. __ and Andy, TV show

4. A young pig

5. Removed surgically

6. Covered with

17. A gesture of assent

22. Scent

23. Teletypewriter

24. General’s assistant (abbr.)

25. Hillside

26. Taxi driver

28. Semitic Sun god

29. Town in India

32. Traditional rhythmic pattern

36. Fugitives are on the __

38. Type of dance

40. Two letters, one sound

43. Having a strong, pleasant taste

44. Golf score

45. Mayhem

46. Drenched

51. River in northeastern Asia

54. Drug to treat anxiety (abbr.)

55. Part-time employee

56. A very large body of water

57. Aboriginal people of Japan

58. Millisecond

59. Forearm bone

60. Subway dweller

62. Royal Mail Puzzle answers found on page 23

Obituary Anniversary

Pritchard: Sharon Ruth (née Smith)A resident of Chatham, Sharon Ruth Pritchard passed away at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance - Chatham Campus at the age of 66.

Born in Chatham and raised in Morpeth, ON,

Sharon was the daughter of Elgin and Margaret (Peg) (née Winters) Smith of Morpeth.

Sharon was the wife of the late Gary Poissant (1997). She was an amazing Mother to Katherine (Kattie) Holmes and spouse Salim Islam and step-Mother to Craig Poissant and wife Michelle. A wonderful Grandmother to Aila, Esmée, Troy and Pearce. She is survived by sisters, Treena (William) Harvey of Chatham, Susan (Paul) Galbrath of Ridgetown; her brother Mark (Nancy) Smith of Windsor, and brother-in-law Jim (Edna, 2023) Brown of Ridgetown, along with several nieces and nephews. Sharon worked and built her career at the Southwest Regional Centre. In her later years, she turned her attention to her grandchildren which she adored; they were her pride and joy. She was a friendly ear to anyone who needed her honest and wise advice. Sharon was giving and generous in her lifetime, often putting the needs of her family and friends above her own. “Kind” is the best description of Sharon and she will be deeply missed. Her strength and resilience through her many trials will always continue to be an inspiration to her family and all those friends that knew her. Sharon will be deeply missed by her “Girls” Amy, Pam, Calli, Mel and Michelle. Card night was always Sharon’s favourite night of the week. Family received friends at McKinlay Funeral Homes in Ridgetown on Thursday, February 29th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and at an evening visitation from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Interment was held at the Morpeth Cemetery on Sunday, March 3 at 10:30 a.m. Donations made in memory of Sharon to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

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 519-354-3532, if not in, leave a message, your call will be returned.

This week’s puzzles found on page 14

Experienced Honda mechanic needed to replace Civic starter and other issues. Indoors. Phone 519-354-7241.

Lessons

Beginner Guitar

Lessons. Call 519917-2339.

Wanted

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.

Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-727-8894.

For Sale

Events

OBITUARIES

Betty Ann Nicholson

81, Tuesday, March 5, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Fred Vandernaalt

80, Sunday, March 3, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Daniel Southiere

54, Saturday March 2, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Edward Coyne

95, Wednesday, March 6, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Gene Nauta

53, Friday, February 23 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Matthew Reaume

44, Thursday, February 29, 2024

Life Transitions

Karen Spanswick (Lothian)

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Life Transitions

Shirley Boggs

93, Saturday, March 2, 2024

Life Transitions

Alain Baillargeon

Help Wanted Rentals

Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Ready-to-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-354-3411

Mature candidate only. 2 bedroom in split level. No pets, no smoking. $1600. More info call 519355-1395.

Sunday, March 3, 2024

Life Transitions

Lucan “Manidookaazo” Isaac

31, Friday, March 1, 2024

Nicholls Funeral Home

Sr. Patricia Anne Turner

97, Thursday, February 29, 2024

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Gary Allison Rolls

73, Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Susan Girard

93, Monday, March 4, 2024

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Joan Emerson

90, Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Aganetha Boese

72, Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Kendrick Funeral Home

Tonio “Che Che” De Luca

64, Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Fred Polowick

81, Monday, March 4, 2024

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Austin Hadlock

83, Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Ron Blake

73, Saturday, March 2, 2024

Badder Funeral Home

Badder

L-K-M candidates weigh in on York1 landfill/recyling issue

The Chatham Voice Candidates vying to represent the Lambton-Kent–Middlesex riding recently weighed in on the proposed recycling/landfill facility that would operate just north of Dresden.

Mississauga-based York1 is seeking to revive the dormant site on Irish School Road.

The plan for York1 is to accept non-hazardous waste to repurpose for the building industry 24/7.

Keith Benn, New Blue

Once elected, my first effort would be to intervene with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MOECP) to suggest, in the strongest terms, that no consideration should be given to awarding the requested amendment to the existing Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA) for the Irish School Road site.

One argument for not doing so is that the existing ECA dates from, I believe, four decades ago and it is not at all clear that York1’s proposed facility is of the type for which the ECA was awarded. Therefore, the ECA should be, I believe, considered invalid for the York1 proposal.

Further, as the MPP representing Lambton-Kent-Middlesex I would most strongly urge the MOECP and the Ontario PC government to not give any consideration to allowing the proposed facility to be built prior to completion of a full Environmental Assessment (EA).

Cathy Burghardt-Jesson, Liberal

Since coming to power, Doug Ford and his Conservatives have consistently operated behind closed doors and failed to consult with everyday Ontarians while bulldozing across rural Ontario. I understand the concerns that have been raised by residents in Dresden. As your MPP, I would champion local issues and meaningful consultation to ensure those who call Lambton-Kent-Middlesex home always have their voices heard.

I agree that we need to protect our environment and prevent local drinking water sources from becoming contaminated by new landfill projects or expansions.

At Queen’s Park, I will fight to strengthen Ontario’s environmental protections.

Kathryn Shailer, NDP

The proposal of York1 to expand the former landfill in Dresden is clearly a major concern to local residents and people throughout the region. If elected, I will work proactively on behalf of the affected communities to ensure that their voice is heard and concerns addressed, and encourage both the Chatham-Kent and Lambton County councils to do whatever they can to protect local resources and the watershed.

It is not acceptable that the Ontario government can legally bypass the wishes of the impacted municipalities. As the elected MPP, I will petition the legislature to give them and their constituents a voice in opposing landfill expansion proposals that ignore potential short and long-term negative environmental and safety consequences for rural Ontario communities.

GTA waste needs a made-in-theGTA solution.

To be clear, more recycling facilities should be encouraged, but the selected site is too close to sensitive waterways, and the proposal entails taking over prime farmland.

Steve Pinsonneault, Conservative I back the residents of Dresden and share all of their concerns.

This has the potential for real environmental issues because of the drain that runs around the property. It’s the 4th Concession drain that feeds into Molly’s Creek which ends in the Sydenham River. There are several species at risk in that river.

I have a real concern with the traffic as well, with 160 trucks per day going through our municipality.

I have spoken to officials from Dawn Euphemia and Lambton County and they are also concerned about the damage to their roads.

The community is not in favour of this and this project is not a good fit for Dresden. The community has to be a willing host, which it is not, so I would suggest that York1 look elsewhere for another site, and scrap this idea.

“ULTIMATE”