The Chatham Voice, March 16, 2023

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

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THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

News

Honey Electric steps up for Cenotaph

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

A Chatham company has stepped forward saying it wants to protect Chatham’s Cenotaph.

Honey Electric Limited is ready to donate security equipment and labour to keep the war memorial safe from harm.

The decision comes on the heels of a recent incident where someone defaced the King Street monument with blue spray paint.

Two swastikas and the letters “CMB” were sprayed on. A special restoration company had to be called in to fix the damage.

It’s the second vandalism incident in a four-month period,

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with one happening just prior to Remembrance Day. Teresa Liberty, who works in human resources at Honey, said the decision to help was made at the company’s weekly team meeting.

According to Liberty, employees were “saddened” by vandalism and want to take action.

“This isn’t right,” Liberty said. “The cenotaph is a sacred symbol and it represents something that is very important for all of us. We should

support our veterans and not show them disgrace.

“They are more deserving of respect,” she added. “One hundred per cent.”

Liberty, who reached out to The Voice after reading last week’s front-page story, said the company is “ready and willing” to do whatever it needs to do to help.

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 642 president Len Maynard is pleased with Honey’s offer.

“It will be really nice to see something get done,” the veteran explained, adding he’s gotten a lot of positive feedback after he spoke out about the municipality’s need to safeguard the cenotaph with security cameras and lights.

“People have been shaking my hand all over the place,” May-

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nard said. “As veterans, as the legion, and as the community, we’re proud of our veterans and we want to protect our sacred monument.

“Chatham-Kent has a lot of heart, but there are idiots out there we have to be aware of.”

Maynard said the municipal response has been encouraging with Mayor Darrin Canniff’s paying him a visit to discuss the issue and he’s hoping it will be brought before council.

Maynard said he’s very pleased with the municipality’s efforts to clean up the graffiti and praised public works employee Corey Crow for his dedication.

“Corey has been knocking himself out to make sure everything is repaired,” Maynard said.

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PAGE 3

News

2,000 kids suspended from C-K schools

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Schools suspended nearly 2,000 Chatham-Kent students last week, and none of it was due to acting out, fighting or any other form of misbehaviour.

The kids got the boot because they didn’t get their shots.

CK Public Health officials reported about 2,000 students were not up to date with their routine school immunizations and, as a result, were suspended.

That’s about 10 times the normal number of kids suspended for not having up-to-date immunizations, according to Carina Caryn, program manager for CK Public Health.

Public Health officials credit the pandemic for having a major impact, as resources were used

to roll out the COVID-19 vaccines to the public for a long stretch.

Despite the fallout of the pandemic delaying shots, efforts were made to catch all students up with their immunizations. Officials said parents were sent letters in August of last year and in January, with orders for compliance issued just last month.

“We ran ‘catch-up’ clinics at each high school across Chatham-Kent, as well as additional clinics for those still overdue in February and early March at our King Street clinic location,” Caryn said.

Those events came on the heels of additional clinics held in the spring of last year across high schools in Chatham-Kent, which were open for anyone to get their updated shots.

Officials from Public Health said it wasn’t one

Contributed image

CK Public Health ordered about 2,000 students in local schools to be suspended last week because their immunizations were not up to date. They credit the pandemic with causing delays, but add catch-up clinics took place in area schools.

specific immunization that was particularly lacking.

Mumps, measles, rubella, varicella, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, haemophilus influenza type B, and pneumococcal vaccinations were all listed as immunizations that were not up to date, according to CK Public Health.

School-aged kids from across age groups were

impacted.

Two shots that had zero impact on suspensions were HPV and Hepatitis B, as they are not mandatory immunizations, “and therefore students missing those shots are not at risk of suspension,” CK Public Health officials said.

It’s not difficult to get a suspended student back in the classroom.

“A student goes back

once they are cleared by Public Health with up-todate immunizations or an appointment time to complete those immunizations,” C a r y n said.

Public Health will be back in schools in May for all

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

PAGE 5

News

Supportive housing concept approved

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Despite the naysayers, Chatham-Kent council approved a $9.7-million funding request from Indwell to create supportive housing at the former St. Agnes School.

But the municipality’s commitment could be significantly lower if the Christian non-profit opts to scale back the project from its initial 95-unit plan.

Playing into the March 6 decision was the looming March 15 application deadline for the federal government’s Rapid Housing Initiative Funding, with council learning it’s unclear if a second round of similar funding will become available.

At C-K council, Indwell’s request was narrowly approved in an 8-6 vote.

Several councillors expressed their displeasure with the size of the ask and the tight timeframe.

A motion by Chatham Coun.

Michael Bondy to defer the decision to gather more information was defeated 12-2. In his comments, Bondy said he didn’t think the Croydon Street Chatham location is right for the neighbourhood and he’s “very uncomfortable” drawing $10 million from CK’s strategic reserves.

Bondy also said the last-minute pressure tactic didn’t sit well with him.

The discussion evoked a similar response from other councillors, with East Kent Coun. Steve Pinsonneault stating the municipality “simply can’t afford” the request.

But on the flip side, council heard homelessness isn’t going away and the need for the type of supportive housing Indwell provides is dire.

Polly Smith, director of employment and social services for the municipality, said homelessness continues to rise throughout Ontario, and Chatham-Kent is no exception.

In a presentation to council, Smith said 500 local residents experienced homelessness in 2021, with an average of three new people applying for help each week. According to Smith, market rents have doubled in recent times, incomes haven’t kept pace, as Chatham-Kent’s average income is 25 per cent lower than the Ontario average.

A total of 10,000 residents in the municipality live on social assistance and 12 per cent of the local population is considered low income.

There is a definite “gap” in the type of supportive housing Indwell provides, Smith said, stressing the problems of chronic homelessness are complex and costly.

A Christian charity, Indwell is known throughout Ontario for providing low-income housing that comes with assistive supports, such as on-site health-

care personnel.

Smith said that for every $1 invested in supportive housing, there’s a $1.52 multiplier benefit in the community.

“These are the expensive problems to fix, where people are seriously unwell,” Smith said, adding the involvement of police and health care with the chronically homeless costs more than investing in supportive housing.

Chief Administrative Officer Michael Duben and Dr. April Rietdyk, C-K’s general manager of community services, both said that if the application didn’t go forward, Chatham-Kent would miss out on the funding option as it is a very competitive process.

Duben also said there’s an opportunity to engage in discussion with the federal government on the matter after the application is made in the event changes are made to downsize the project.

Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew, who was clearly upset by the pushback against the Indwell ask, said everyone in Chatham-Kent deserves a safe neighbourhood to live in.

“We represent people who are not taxpayers,” Crew said. “This really frustrates me. Yes, these things do cost money, but so do the people liv-

New command centre for CK fire The Chatham Voice

A revamped command centre unit is in the works for the Chatham-Kent Fire Service.

Thanks to a $25,000 grant from Hydro One, new equipment will be added to one of the fleet’s trucks, including the addition of portable shelter.

CKFS assistant Chief Adam Walters said the organization was pleased to receive the Energizing Life Community Fund grant, and expanding the command unit was a “good fit” for the funds.

“It will help us fill in some gaps,” Walters said, noting the revitalized truck will assist firefighters on large-scale and prolonged long-duration incidents.

A new portable mobile structure will be

added, Walters explained, to provide shelter for firefighters and other emergency workers, allowing them to take a breather and change shifts when needed.

“It will provide a place a place for firefighters to take a break out of the elements,” he said. “Before, they would have to stand outside in the weather with no privacy.”

The truck to be used, already in service, is 10 years old, which Walters said is about the midway point in the life of a fire vehicle’s life.

Some new state-of-art audio-visual equipment will also be added to the truck as part of the command centre upgrade.

Currently there are 450 firefighters and staff serving Chatham-Kent at 19 stations throughout the municipality.

ing under the bridge.”

As part of the lengthy discussion on the matter and in response to the large size of the ask, Indwell’s director of projects and development said downsizing the project is doable.

“I definitely believe there’s room to recalibrate the amount of units on site,” Graham Cubbit told council, adding the project could be scaled back about 30 per cent and could be revamped to a two-storey complex.

He added it’s Indwell’s goal to “minimize” the amount the municipality will contribute, adding he understood council’s concern with the large amount of the request.

But he stressed that the application would likely have lit-

tle success at the federal level without municipal backing.

A handful of delegations opposed the Indwell build, ranging from complaints the proposed three-storey build won’t fit in with the architecture of the neighbourhood to fears of increased crime, were made at the meeting.

The Indwell request was brought before council in January prior to budget talks, but it was not part of the budget process.

As it stands, the total estimated cost of the Indwell project with 95 units is about $27 million.

Council’s decision allows the municipality to enter into a memorandum of understanding with Indwell and to officially submit the proposal.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 6

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

Opinion Housing crisis requires urgency It may not amount to much compared to the $400 million plus municipal budget , but to most residents, the $9.7 million council earmarked for supportive housing at the former St. Agnes School is a significant amount of money.

The March 6 decision, passed by a narrow 8-6 majority, will allow the Christian non-profit group Indwell to seek senior government funding to construct 95 housing units.

Without the municipality’s “willing partner” status, there would be no chance for Indwell to seek the additional $18 million needed to make the project a reality.

Judging councillors’ comments, some of those opposed to the spending weren’t necessarily against the concept but were angry about being forced into a “decide now or lose the opportunity” scenario since the grant application date for Indwell is March 15.

It’s worth noting that council funded an Indwell Project manager in 2020, the school was purchased in 2021 and two years later, the project remains

more dream than reality.

The situation is reminiscent of last year’s homeless shelter debate when residents of the Victoria Park Place neighbourhood were informed only weeks in advance that the shelter would be located there. That location was at least the third site to have been considered.

There is no doubt Chatham-Kent has a housing crisis and a homeless crisis.

We aren’t alone in this. Council has known about the problem since 2018.

We fail to understand why there isn’t a more cohesive, reasoned and planned approach.

Having what seems like an annual crisis in dealing with homelessness and its associated social problems makes it appear there is no plan to deal with a situation that isn’t a surprise to anyone.

If the issue involved the location of a new industry or housing development, a five-year wait wouldn’t be acceptable.

Affordable housing needs to have the same sense of urgency.

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 The Chatham Voice, 71 Sass Rd., Unit 4, Chatham, Ont, N7M 5J4.

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

Chickens are a boon, not a problem Editor: Behind us in a barn in the city there is free habitation for squirrels, possums, racoons, several birds and other critters.

Raising chickens does lots of things besides providing eggs. They are a reason to get up every morning. They are free pest control. Mosquitoes are one of their favourites. Keeping chickens teaches children respon-

sibility and all that is relative to them.

Did l mention free manure?

When you walk out the back door, they instantly start looking: “Who is it and what does he have for us” The chickens may not be too smart but they have instant recognition.

I’m sure those on city council would not like being known as back-

wards and out of touch. Progressive cities like, Kingston, Guelph, and several other cities allow chickens for the benefit of many.

It wasn’t that long ago that Chatham allowed horses in town.

I hope you give this subject some thought.

Anna Burk Chatham

Vandalism disgraceful

Editor: My Grandfather fought in the First World War, volunteering on August 10, 1914 to join The First Canadian Battalion in Europe.

He inhaled gas in the trenches of Belgium, never for the rest of his life regaining the full use of his voice.

He was shot and wound-

ed at the 1916 battle at Ypres from German machine gun fire, while watching comrades around him die from the same gunfire.

He did this to protect our freedoms; the freedom to disagree with our government in peaceful protest, amongst other

freedoms.

A cenotaph was constructed in downtown Chatham seven years after his wounding to honour the sacrifice of his colleagues who gave their lives alongside of him to protect our freedoms.

Continued on page 14

THE CHATHAM VOICE

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 8

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

News

Pedals fall off bike rental service idea

By Bird Bouchard Local Journalism Initiative Reporter - The Ridgetown Independent

The idea of an independent tourism-focused

bike use/rental service within Chatham-Kent has fallen flat.

At a Dec. 6, 2021, meeting, council directed administration to commence a public request for inter-

est process regarding the operation of independent tourism-focused bike use and rental services within Chatham-Kent.

As directed by council, a public Request for

Independently Owned & Operated

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Expressions of Interest (REOI) was issued.

The REOI sought to determine if a business or organization was interested in facilitating a bike use or rental pilot project in Chatham-Kent. However, just one response was received to the posted REOI. Council was updated on the outcome of the REOI at the July 25, 2022, meeting.

“Chatham-Kent Tourism staff connect local businesses that have stated they are interested in discussing the opportunity of hosting an in-person e-bike rental program partnership with Demon Electric/RYDE,” reads the report that went before council.

Chatham-Kent Tourism staff engaged in discussions with Demon Elec-

tric/RYDE regarding the installation of up to six RYDE e-bike charging stations throughout the municipality, with a tentative launch date of Spring 2023 and a maximum project cost not exceeding $45,000, funded by the Tourism Reserve and/or grant support.

On August 8, 2022, phone and email communications between the municipal tourism team and Demon Electric/ RYDE commenced. There was an agreement that a draft contract would be provided to the municipality by October 7, 2022.

“Despite the best efforts of the municipal tourism team to maintain communication with the company, a draft contract has not been received, and connections to local businesses have not been

made. Discussions with the company have therefore ceased,” said Andrea McCulligh, Tourism Development Coordinator.

A tourism-oriented bike rental project may be re-examined in the future if new information or opportunities arise.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

PAGE 9

News

Courage to Change is back

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

There’s no time like the present to dig deep and find the courage to change.

Local women will again have the opportunity to do so thanks to the in-person return of the Courage to Change program.

A mainstay of Westover Treatment Centre programming since 2014, Courage to Change is again live after the pandemic.

Program founder Kimberly Quann, an addictions counsellor, life coach and recovering alcoholic, said the venture is open to any females aged 16 and up, who may be stuck and want to change the dire-

tion of their lives.

“It’s open to any woman, not just women dealing with addiction,” Quann told The Voice in a recent interview. “It’s designed to help women gain insight into themselves and develop skills that will help them deal with life on life’s terms.”

Billed as a practical guide for women working towards healing and well-being, Courage to Change is being offered at St. Andrew’s United Church in Chatham starting March 23. It will run each Thursday night from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. until April 13th.

A second session following the same format is slated to run in Wallaceburg at St. James Anglican Church from April 27

to May 18.

According to Quann, some of the topics that will be covered are relationships – both healthy and unhealthy – empowerment, dealing with emotions such as guilt and shame, coping skills and communication.

Self-esteem, body image, eating disorders, sex and intimacy issues and personal belief systems are also on the agenda.

“We can be locked in patterns,” Quann said. “We have to learn what to do when we are triggered.”

A woman named Lisa who participated in Courage to Change online during the pandemic, said it was what she needed to kickstart change.

On her second hellish marriage to alcoholic

number two, Lisa said she was in a desperate dark place when she finally reached out to Westover.

“It helped me build on myself and to learn about my core beliefs and what my triggers are,” Lisa explained. “It gave me a really deep understanding. I learned that no one can make you feel anything. It’s an amazing

mind-blowing process and it’s up to you.”

Lisa, who has worked diligently to address her issues, is now in a better place and she credits Courage to Change for getting her started.

“The program shows you how to find out who you are,” Lisa added. “It’s never too late to learn about yourself.”

Quann hopes Courage to Change will help foster a culture of community locally for women that will be impactful and life-changing.

Courage to Change is being made possible through sponsorship from the United Way of Chatham-Kent and the Rotary Club of Chatham.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 10

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

News Contributed image

Colin McKay of Chatham had a rare opportunity to meet curling legend Russ Howard at the Tim Horton’s Brier in London recently.

The youngster was one of three curlers from the Chatham Granite Club who were invited to take part in the hit, draw and tap competition held as part of the Canadian Men’s’ Curling Championship.

Also attending were Ewan MacTavish and Myles Laidlaw. Colin and Russ are seen here with the Brier Trophy.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

PAGE 11

YOUR FARM YOUR FAMILY YOUR SUCCESS Keeping kids safe on the farm As more millennials enter Canada’s agricultural workforce, the number of people raising families on farms increases. While growing up in the country presents many advantages, it’s important to remember that farms are dangerous worksites. Here are several hazards agricultural workers should protect kids from.

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.

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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.

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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.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 12

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week - March 12-18, 2023 Taking place March 12-18, 2023,

Commit to Farm Safety

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week is an annual public initiative delivered by the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) to raise awareness about the importance of farm safety.

This year’s theme, Safety is Our Promise, is part of the three-year safety campagin “Your Farm, Your Family, Your Success.” In 2023, organizers are focusing on practical safety advice and inspiring conversations about farm safety while highlighting the reasons safety is essential for the sustainability of farming operations.

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.

The AgSafe Ribbon

Farm Machinery Safety When it comes to using farm machinery, injurines can occur in the bink 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 extra riders on machinery, ensuring bystanders like children aren’t nearby, following manufacturer guidelines on towing restrictions, and using rollover protection structures and seatbelts.

Remember that while injuries involving farm machinery are often serious, they are also preventable.

is a great way to show your support of Canadian Agricultural Safety Week and show that you value #FarmSafetyEveryday. You can participate by ordering ribbons (free of charge), once you have the ribbons you can wear them, distribute them and share the importance of farm safety with your friends, family and community. Digital ribbons are also available. Download, and share on social media, on blog posts, in email signatures or any other way that shows you support! Digital ribbons are free to download! Order and download your ribbons at casa-acsa.ca/en/canadian-agiculural-safety-week/ribbons.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

PAGE 13

News

Local home sales in slump

The Chatham Voice

Property transactions in Chatham-Kent apparently saw their shadow in February, as they went into a slumber.

According to Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors (CKAR) figures, the number of homes sold totaled 61 units last month, down by more than 50 per cent from the same month a year ago.

Looking at the bigger picture, home sales were 31.6 per cent below the five-year average and 28.5 per cent below the 10-year average for the month of February.

So far, in the first two months of 2023, home sale are down nearly 48 per cent from January and February of 2022.

The good news is housing inventory is on the rise, Matt Bechard, president of CKAR, said.

“Home sales were trending below typical levels for this time of year and continue to decline on a monthly basis,” he said in a media release. “New listings have rebounded from their previous lows and are now running above average, pushing overall supply up to levels unseen since the end of 2016.

Bechard said the market is still correcting itself as buyers and sellers try to get on the same page.

“Given the imbalance between supply and demand at the moment, it may be the case that sellers have not yet fully adjusted to buyers’ low-

er pricing expectations or affordability, in which case it may take another month or two before we start to see an upswing in sales activity,” he said.

The average price of homes sold in February 2023 was $426,963, down nearly 20 per cent from

February 2022.

Through the first two months of the year, the average price of a home sold was $414,980, a drop of almost 17 per cent from the first two months of 2022.

As mentioned, the number of new listings was

up – by 7.5 per cent (10 listings) from February 2022. There were 144 new residential listings in February 2023. This was the largest number of new listings added in the month of February in more than five years.

New listings were 8.4 per

cent above the five-year average and 11.7 per cent above the 10-year average for the month of February.

The number of active listings was 85 per cent above the five-year average for the month of February.

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Canadian Agricultural Safety Week - March 12-18, 2023 Maintain your equipment to ensure it is operating properly. Double check the safety features.

Be alert and aware when operating farm machinery. Watch for road traffic and other farm traffic.

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

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

Get plenty of rest.

Take breaks and step out of the tractor, even if only for five Hot, Nutritious, Home-Style Delivered minutes. Meals, Eat and drink plenty.

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

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

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 519.351.MEAL (6325) www.mealsonwheelsck.com 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.

When you see a tractor on our roads . . .

Slow Down. Be Patient.

Pass With Caution. Stay Safe!

Keep your farm moving in the right direction.

Farm Safely!

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 14

Chatham’s Newest!

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

Opinion

Cenotaph demands respect Continued from page 6

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Once again, in a heinous crime, some societal leeches, who expect to be given everything while contributing nothing, have defaced that cenotaph, requiring a specialist company from Sarnia to come to Chatham one more time to remove the blasphemy from the stone.

That cenotaph represents the sacrifice of generations of local people who have given their lives in multiple wars to defend our rights.

How can this memorial be continually vandalized year after year with no repercussions to the scourges on society who do this?

Why is there no real penalty meted out, on the long shot that our law enforcement people actually apprehend the perpetrators?

How can the municipality budget $6 million for a bike path along the Thames River, but cannot spring for a half a dozen security cameras

to monitor the cenotaph?

Oh, how foolish of me. Dead people don’t vote!

A simple infrared beam encircling the cenotaph could alert the local police station if a person approached within a pre-defined perimeter of the monument, with the ability to dispatch the closest police officer to investigate, day or night.

I had hoped that the election this past October would bring some new blood to municipal council that would actually be concerned with Chatham-Kent and what happens here, but no, we have the same-old, same-old professional bench sitters agreeing to every whim of administration.

Nothing has changed. The tail is still wagging the dog.

David Goldsmith Chatham

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

Big crowds, big support at auto show

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Not even an angry Mother Nature could stop the success of this year’s Chatham Indoor Auto Show.

Sloppy, wet, snowy weather rolled across Chatham-Kent March 3, discouraging visitors from attending the event that night.

Greg Hetherington, the show’s organizer and general manager of Five Amigos Broadcasting, said fewer than 300 people braved the conditions.

“Friday was crazy,” he said. “It was our worst crowd ever. We had 280 people for the entire night.”

But the enticement of new cars on display and sunny skies turned the tables the next day. Nearly 1,700 people showed up to check out the 75 cars on display from nine Chatham auto dealerships.

They also brought cash donations and non-per-

ishable food items, as entry to the event was $5 per adult or a canned good.

Proceeds went to four local charities, Outreach for Hunger and Salvation Army food banks, as well as the Children’s Treatment Centre and R.O.C.K. Missions.

Hetherington said the Saturday crowd was a one-day record for the event.

Sunday delivered even better weather and another 1,020 car enthusiasts.

The weather co-operated, but perhaps a little too much.

“Friday was poorly attended because of the weather. On Sunday, I think it affected us as well, because it was too nice,” Hetherington said with a laugh. “But we still had a great crowd.”

With more than 3,000 patrons over the course of the three days, the dealers and the event organizers managed to raise about $5,000 in food for the two

PAGE 15

News

Contributed image

From left, Chelsea Peachy from Outreach for Hunger accepts this donation of food from Ian Cartwright of Chatham Mazda, Sa’id Hammoud of Victory Ford and Mike Hogue of Chatham Chrysler. Entrance into the recent Chatham Indoor Auto Show was $5 per person or a non-perishable food item. With more than 3,000 patrons, the show gathered an estimated $5,000 worth of food and nearly the same in cash donations

food banks, and collect nearly $4,800 in cash donations for the treatment centre and R.O.C.K. This year’s event saw fewer vehicles on the floor, Hetherington said, and one dealer, Campbell Toyota, did not attend due to a lack of vehicles to showcase to the public.

That didn’t mean they weren’t involved.

“Even though Toyota wasn’t there, they’ve been a part of organizing the show, but didn’t have any product,” Hetherington said. “I think it just shows the relationship with all the dealers trying to work

together as one.”

That is something you don’t necessarily see in

other cities.

Previous shows had seen about 90 different vehi-

cles on display and this year’s show featured 75.

Hetherington said.

Straight Talk with Nathan McKinlay How can my family and friends participate in my service?

When planning a funeral event, there are various ways family and friends can participate.

Here are a handful of ways.

Eulogy - For those who feel compelled to speak, there is always an opportunity to share a eulogy.

This is likely the most involved role one can take on, and ought not to be forced on anyone who is not feeling up to it. That being said, the eulogy is truly what personalizes a service above all else.

Read a poem or a reading - If one is comfortable with public speaking, but does not wish to put their own thoughts to page, having a family member read a poem, or a reading is a great way to have them participate.

Singing or playing an instrument - To those with a musical skillset, this is a great way to pay tribute to your loved one.

Read a eulogy on the writer’s behalf - Not all eulogists wish to get in front of a crowd. In these cases, one person can write the eulogy and another family member can read it. This is also something the Celebrant, Minister or Funeral Director can do if no one else is comfortable.

Pallbearer or Urn Bearer - This is a very physical way a family member can participate in laying their loved one to rest. It is often done by friends of the family, and more recently grandchildren or even the children of the deceased themselves.

Flower Bearer - Sometimes, you can say more with a flower than you can with words. A flower bearer will often lay a single flower at the grave or in the Funeral Coach.

Honour Bearer - An honour bearer can participate, either by forming a line with other honour bearers, or simply by sitting in a special section during the service. An honour bearer receives the honour due to their connection and history to the decreased. It is a way of acknowledging the relationship without putting too much of a burden on the participant. An honour bearer does not even need to be present for the service to be recognized. An example of this would be if someone is living in a nursing home and is unable to attend.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 16

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

Community Events

Thursday, March 16, 2023: • 60th Annual Lenten Noon Hour Interdenominational Service at Christ Church, 80 Wellington St. W., Chatham. 12:10pm-12:35pm.

Followed by a sandwich luncheon in the parish hall. The theme this year is “Peace and Reconciliation.” The speaker this week is The Rev. Mike Maroney, First Presbyterian Church.

Free will offering to help Outreach within our community.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am1:30pm. Senior Euchre at 1:00pm.

Everyone is welcome.

• The Chatham-Kent Quilters’ Guild meeting at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave E, Chatham.

Hybrid meetings continue until further notice with live Zoom available.

Everyone is welcome, including non-members. Non-members pay a $5 fee/meeting and enjoy our presentations, guest speakers and all the fun! Membership fee is $50 per year and entitles you to our newsletter and all of our regular meetings free of charge. Contact us through our Facebook page or website at www.ckquiltguild.com for info.

• Tap Dancing - did you used to tap dance? Beginner/easy tap dancing at the ALC at 10am. Call Val 519-4012043.

• Music for Lent & Easter. 12:15pm at Holy Trinity - St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 81 Selkirk St., Chatham. Lots of parking. Guest organist Dr. Wayne Carroll & John Wolsley, cello. This concert has an informal “come and go” format. Bring your lunch if you wish, and stay for one or two pieces, or as many as you would like! Freewill donations gratefully received.

• Merlin Legion, 2 Stanley St, Merlin.

Jam Session, 1-4:30pm. Everyone welcome - bring your instruments, singing voices, dancing shoes or just clap along and jam the afternoon.

Panzerotti Special - 4-7pm, deluxe or customize to your liking, $12.61+tax.

To order call 519-689-4884. Mixed Euchre Night at 7pm. Everyone welcome - light potluck lunch to follow.

For more information please call Eric @ 519-689-7555 Friday, March 17, 2023: • Adult Colouring at the CKPL Chatham Branch Community Living Café.

Every Friday. 2:00pm until 4:00pm.

THEN

Come and connect with people of all ages and skill levels while colouring away the stress of the day. Come alone or bring a friend. No registration required, come and go.

en $9.29 or 3pc Merlickin Chicken $11.95 (includes fries & coleslaw).

Karaoke Bob 7-11pm. 3 Door Prizes to be won. Everyone welcome to attend.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00-6:00. No orders after 5:30pm.

Tonight’s specials are cabbage rolls or fish & chips. Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Fun darts at 7:00pm.

Everyone Welcome.

Sunday, March 19, 2023: • Creekside Church - 10:00am Sunday’s at the Adult Lifestyle Centre, Merritt Ave. Haven’t been to church in a while? Come find community with us. creeksidechurch.ca

• St. Patrick’s Day and Resort 34th Anniversary Celebration at Chatham Retirement Resort at 1:30pm. Irish dance performance by Cornell School of Irish Dance, Sham Rockin’ Pub Social with green beeer. Please RSVP 519-351-7777 ext. 526 to let us know you will be attending!

• Merlin Legion, 2 Stanley St, Merlin, 519-689-4884 call in your order.

Dinner Choices are 5pc Perch or combo - 3pc Perch + 2pc Merlickin Chicken $16.82+tax OR 3pc Merlickin Chicken $11.95+tax (includes baked or fresh cut fries, veggies, bun + dessert) Served 4:30-7pm.

Saturday, March 18, 2023: • 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-10:30am. Take out only.

• Saturdays at 7 at St. Andrew’s United Church, 85 William Street S., Chatham presents “Under a Celtic Moon” at 7pm. In celebration of St. Andrew’s Celtic roots, this concert will feature Celtic tunes from well-known hymns to on-screen favourites. Donations at the doors (suggested $15). All are welcome!

For further information www. standrewschatham.org/music or call 519-352-0010.

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

Kitchen open for lunch from 3:00pm5:30pm. Entertainment by Marquis from 4:30-9:30. Come check out our menu. Everyone Welcome.

• Legion, 2 Stanley St, Merlin - 519689-4884. Kitchen open 3-9pm.

Menu + Special 2pc Merlickin Chick-

Fun Stuff

Tuesday, March 21, 2023: • Chess Club at Chatham Branch of CKPL. 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm. Drop in program. Great opportunity to learn new strategies by playing with different players. All ages and all skill levels are welcome.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Euchre at 1:00 and 7:00pm. Shuffleboard at 7:00pm.

Everyone is welcome.

• Kent Historical Society meets at the Cultural Centre, Studio 1, 7:30pm. Paul Roy, native of Pain Court, formerly the President of King Grain, will talk about the history of that community, as well as his experiences as a Franco-Ontarian.

Everyone welcome. Free admission.

Wednesday, March 22, 2023: • Beginner Salsa Group Classes at 7:30pm. $20/person, $30/couple.

106 William St. N. (Big white house across from the park) For more info on the classes visit our website www.londonsalsaacademy.ca or send us and email to info@londonsalsaacademy.ca.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am1:30pm. Our daily special is meat loaf dinner. Come check out our other daily specials. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Belonging to a thing 4. Pass or go by 10. Partner to cheese 11. Subjects 12. U.S. State (abbr.)

14. Bits per inch 15. Forest-dwelling deer 16. Illinois city 18. A salt or ester of acetic acid 22. Wholly unharmed 23. Cuddled 24. Bane 26. Global investment bank (abbr.)

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28. Arrive 30. Famed Spanish artist 31. Home of “Frontline” 34. Group of quill feathers 36. Keyboard key 37. Army training group 39. Detail 40. Pole with flat blade 41. Football play 42. Makes unhappy 48. Island in Hawaii 50. Back in business 51. Of an individual 52. Painful chest condition

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Submit your coming events to bruce@chatham­voice.com or michelle@chathamvoice.com

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

C-K’s Suni speaks at DX3 conference The Chatham Voice

Chatham’s own Elizabeth Suni recently took the stage as a key speaker at the DX3 conference in Toronto – Canada’s biggest retail, marketing and technology event.

Suni, founder and president of national clothing brand Wooly Doodle, is also the force behind Suni Creative Co., a branding and digital marketing agency based out of Chatham.

Being asked to speak at the conference was “humbling and exhilarating”, Suni said.

“I’m passionate about social media marketing and work hard to position myself as an expert in this area, so to be invited to speak on a panel of other esteemed marketing professionals was an honour,” Suni said.

“I hope to return again next year.”

The DX3 event draws more than 2,000 attendees each year and has become a one-stop-shop for taking advantage of everything that retail, digital and tech has to offer.

With a background in corporate branding, marketing and communications, Suni built a successful national clothing brand after starting it on a whim while on maternity leave in 2017.

She realized her true passion is branding and marketing and subsequently opened Suni Creative Co. in September 2022, filling her client roster almost immediately.

For more information about Suni Creative Co., visit sunicreative.com or follow on Instagram @ sunicreativeco.

Heyink staff ratify contract

Employees at one of Chatham-Kent’s major construction companies have ratified a three-year contract.

A total of 25 labourers and pipelayers at Henry Heyink Construction Ltd., represented by Construction Workers Union, CLAC Local 53, have

PAGE 17

News beat the majority of other union and non-union workers in wages and benefits,” Kuiper said in a media release. “We are pleased with the solid endorsement we received from the membership, with members voting unanimously in favour of ratifying the settlement.”

Henry Heyink Construction carries out a broad Contributed image range of general and Chatham entrepreneur Elizabith Suni, second from right, recently took part as a speaker at the DX3 contracting construcConference in Toronto. She’s seen here with fellow Social Media Do’s and Don’ts panellists Daniel civil tion services Francavilla, Robin Whalen, and Melissa Lee. throughout Chainked a deal that sees “solid round of bargain- that our members at Hey- tham-Kent. a 10-per-cent wage in- ing that allowed us to get ink are some of the topCLAC has represented crease. substantial increases. paid labourers in the Cha- the workers since 2011.

Other aspects of the con“The contract helps en- tham region and actually tract include an 11 per s u r e cent increase to retirement savings, as well as a $100 increase to the annual clothing and boot allowance. Pipelayers also got a $1-per-hour increase premium. Plus, there were significant benefit increases to life insurance and vision care.

CLAC representative Alex Kuiper said the contract is the result of a

Your Donations Help Support our Therapeutic Recreation Services!

Donate Today!

ctcf-ck.com or 519-354-0520 ext. 226

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 18

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

News

The Chatham Voice

Chatham-Kent council briefs

Bloomfield Business Park Buy Back Chatham-Kent council has approved buying back two Bloomfield Business Park properties the municipality sold in 2021.

The March 6 decision follows a recommendation from Economic Develop-

ment Services to reject a request for a six-month extension from Flodo Enterprises and Myriad Technologies to begin construction.

The move allows Chatham-Kent to repurchase the 3.95 acres from Flodo for $197,000 and 3.89 acres from Myriad for $194,500.

According to an EDS report, the original sale stipulated that construction had to commence within one year of the sale.

As of Feb. 1, no work had been done at either site.

The buy back means the municipality can resell the properties for $89,000 acre, rather than $50,000 an acre which was the

OBITUARIES Tim Wolting 62, Thursday, March 2, 2023 Life Transitions

May Anna Tibensky 89, Monday, March 6, 2023 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Gary Weir 86, Thursday, March 2, 2023 Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Vivian Bowman 94, Friday, March 3, 2023 Kendrick Funeral Home

William “Bill” Smith Friday, March 3, 2023 McKinlay Funeral Home

Sylvia Marie Poole 81, Saturday, March 4, 2023 Nicholls Funeral Home

Dan Bugera 70, Tuesday, March 7, 2023 McKinlay Funeral Home

Calvin Blake 83, Thursday, March 9, 2023 Nicholls Funeral Home

Bob Butler Tuesday, March 7 2023 McKinlay Funeral Home

Jane Churchill 96, Saturday, March 4, 2023 Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Len Langlois Wednesday, March 8, 2023 McKinlay Funeral Home

See full obituaries at chathamvoice.com/obituaries

Bob Loop 83, Friday, February 24, 2023 McKinlay Funeral Home Cindy Lou Lacina 63, Thrusday, February 9, 2023 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

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purchase price in 2021.

Need for another crosswalk on Park Avenue?

Whether there is a need for a crosswalk on Park Avenue East in Chatham from Creek/Sass Road to Park Lane is about to be examined by the municipality.

The investigation comes following council’s approval of a motion by Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew, who is concerned about the safety of pedestrians accessing the CK Brain Injury Association on Maple Leaf Drive. The transit shelter for anyone accessing the association is on the north side of Park Avenue, east of the CSX railway tracks, with no continuous sidewalks and Crew wants to know how citizens, with or without accessibility issues, cross four lanes of traffic to access the shelter. The administrative report, which includes finding a source of funding is expected to come back before council in July.

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Brokering a new deal?

Chatham-Kent is going to look to other municipalities to try and solve the

Tom Bos of Chatham is seen with Luce Cools picking up his new 2022 Jeep Gladiator Mojave, fully loaded. This is Tom and Jennifer’s first new vehicle from Luce. Thank you for choosing to buy locally and congratulations on you new Jeep!

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problem of escalating insurance costs. On March 6, council approved a motion from South Kent Coun. Ryan Doyle for administration to engage with other regions and organizations such as the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, to find a collective solution to the runaway costs. This is going to continue until we do something, Doyle told council. The solution could include the cooperative purchasing of insurance or the possible creation of a reciprocal insurance provider, as well as legislative changes to address insurance costs that are severely affecting municipal budgets across the province.

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459 St.Clair St., Chatham • 519-351-2040 76 Main St. E., Ridgetown • 519-674-3141 141 Park St., Blenheim • 519-676-3451

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inked Chatham-Kent council has inked several fiveyear grass cutting contracts with several different companies. On March 6, council approved the long-term agreements to cover off grass cutting on municipal property.

According to an administrative report 16 different companies made bids to cut grass over a fourweek period RFP period at the beginning of the year. However, higher than normal number of the bids were found to be non-compliant and were disqualified.

Chatham-Kent had budgeted just under $1-million for grass cutting in 2023, however the actual cost for cutting grass has been pegged at $1,305,234. The shortfall gets reported back in the municipality’s variance report and then starts as a budget shortfall in the next cycle.

Chatham

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023

Classifieds

Anniversary

Auction

LARGE ESTATE AUCTION SALE Saturday, March 25, 2023 For the Late Lois & Tony Duncan

to

Stella and Donald Webster

St. Simon & St. Jude Parish Hall 267 Meunier St., Belle River

on their

70th Wedding Anniversary March 14, 1953 - 2023 from the girls, their families, and the many relatives and friends.

Loans

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Preview: 8:00am, Auction Starts: 9:00am NO BUYERS PREMIUM Pine corner cabinet, oak claw foot curved glass china cabinet, dble door pine cupboard, harvest table, bonnet chest, rod iron dbl bed, queen size poster bed, marble top dresser, drop front desk, cedar chest, bonnet chest, commode, old wicker table, chairs, loveseat, early crocks, lg quantity of Royal Doultons, art glass, Shelley cups & saucers, pine potato bin, treadle sewing machine, dining room table & 6 chairs, rugs, old pottery, satin glass, leaded glass lamp, art work paintings, Staffordshire birds, salesman sample, saddle, wicker doll buggy, old maps, lg quantity of collectible dishes & china, old post cards, old games, bubble frames, mantle clocks, Beswick, brand new Coca Cola cooler brand new in box, carnival, train set, unusual bookends, old collectible Christmas bulbs, many cameras & binoculars, silverware set, An outstanding auction, lifetime collectors, Go to this website for pictures and more information www.murrayknappauctions.com TERMS: CASH OR CHEQUE WITH PROPER I.D. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS DAY OF SALE

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Appin Tours

May 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . St . Jacobs - Village Shops Country Playhouse “The Prom” musical comedy show & Anna Maes Restaurant June 26, 27, 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shipshewana large flea market and more August 10 . . . . . . .Riverboat Cruise, Caledonia, ON August 18 . . . . . . Walter Theatre feat Twitty & Lynn August 20 . . . .Dinner & “A Pack of Thieves” Show, Port Dover Sept 9 . . . . . Dinner & “Opry Gold” Show, Port Dover Oct 29 - Nov 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A new itinerary for Pigeon Forge & Nashville November 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lunch & Walters Christmas Show in Brantford Nov. 27 . . . . . . . One of A Kind Craft Show, Toronto Dec 1, 2, 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shipshewana featuring Daniel O’Donnell Christmas Show

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CHATHAMVOICE.COM Pick us up every week at any of these locations!

Chatham: Anne’s Smoke Shop, Downtown Chatham Centre, Legion Branch 628, Maple City Bakery, Active Lifestyle Centre, Wednesday Market, Wimpys, Royal LePage, Pharmasave, Schinkels, Lenover, Betty Brite, Real Canadian Superstore Wallaceburg: Shoppers Drug Mart, 99.1CKXS, Taylor’s Variety, Black Goose, No Frills, Hometown Deli Dresden: MacTavish Pharmacy, Godfathers Thamesville: Fast & Fresh, Movie Den, Studio 519

Delivered each week to every home in the city of Chatham.

2023

Enjoy Traveling in 2023

Puzzle Answers. Puzzles on page 16

Anniversary

CONSOLIDATE DEBTS LOWER YOUR PAYMENTS

PAGE 19

Blenheim: McIntyre I.D.A. Pharmacy, Jim’s Barber Shop, Blenheim Seniors Centre, Blenheim Variety, Blenheim Municipal Service Centre Erieau: Eau Buoy, Bayside Brew Pub Pain Court: Pain Court Market, Central Tavern Mitchell’s Bay: Mitchell’s Bay Variety, Dover Duds Merlin: Merlin General Store Tilbury: Ashley’s Place Charing Cross: Post Office/Bert’s Plumbing Wheatley: Circle K Store, Jack’s Restaurant

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Give us a call at 519-397-2020

PAGE 20

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2023