The Chatham Voice, Aug. 1, 2024

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PAGE 2

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

News

Family seeks marrow match to save son

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

A Chatham youth battling cancer is in dire need of a bone marrow transplant.

His family is on the hunt for a donor match.

Currently in hospital in London, 16-year-old Ethan Hunter is fighting for his life against a rare form of lymphoma and none of his family members are compatible, meaning a donor must be found.

“We need is to get the word out,” Ethan’s mom Shara Hunter told The Voice recently. “And we need prayers and a miracle.”

The Chatham-Kent Secondary School student was diagnosed with lymphoblastic lymphoma T-cell leukemia two years ago. Since that time, he’s fought bravely with doctors managing to bring the illness into remission. But three weeks ago, the teenager’s condition took a turn for the worse.

According to Shara, her

son’s cancer reappeared, which for that type of cancer is rare.

“The doctors were surprised as this only happens to two per cent of people who have this disease,” she explained, noting she was guided by her intuition that something was amiss. “It wasn’t on the radar for him.”

Ethan was readmitted to hospital and is currently receiving daily blood transfusions, as the search for a donor match continues.

Continued on page 5

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

PAGE 3

News

Landfill lessons learned…near Ingersoll

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

It took them a decade but the citizens of Oxford County stopped a mega-landfill from being built in their community.

And the people of Dresden, facing a potential new landfill just outside of their community, are taking note.

But it was no easy feat in Oxford County, according to Bryan Smith, leader of O.P.A.L. – Oxford People Against the Landfill.

“They totally underestimated us,” the retired teacher said in an interview with The Chatham Voice. “They didn’t understand the resolve of our commitment to the community.”

The saga began in 2012, when two local deejays stumbled on the fact Walker Environmental Group Inc. was hoping to locate a new landfill in a limestone

quarry two kilometres from downtown Ingersoll.

O.P.A.L. launched and the battle began.

“People reacted quite quickly to the news,” Smith said, noting the non-profit immediately formed a research committee to begin dealing with the issue.

Because the site of the proposed landfill was located in Zorra Township close to the headwaters of the Thames River, residents were especially concerned. Most of Oxford County’s 110,000 plus citizens draw their water from a spring-fed aquifer threading through the municipality.

Walker Environmental was proposing a landfill that could accept 17 million tonnes of non-hazardous waste over a 20-year period, mainly from the Toronto region. It prompted a remark from one local mayor that Oxford County wasn’t “To-

ronto’s kitty litter.”

Smith, a member of the Oxford Coalition for Social Justice, who lives just three kilometres away from the artesian wells at the Thames’ source, points out access to clean drinking water is part of social justice.

“There’s no justice if you can’t drink the water,” he emphasized.

So, for the next 10 years until 2022, volunteers waged a war that involved constant fundraising, an avalanche of letter writing, hiring scientific experts, petitions and numerous rallies and protests. Smith said O.P.A.L. even took the battle – and some lifesize Styrofoam cows – to the lawn of Queen’s Park where protestors per-

formed the Oxford Dairy Dance.

Continued on page 5

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

PAGE 5

News

Bill 197 empowers communities in fight against landfills Continued from page 3

“There are more cows than people in Oxford County,” Smith explained.

A two-tier municipality, Oxford County is made up of eight communities that all have their own municipal governments. Aided by some vocal politicians, the county threw its collective support behind O.P.A.L. It was a long road. But in 2020 the Ford government passed Bill 197. The omni-bus bill included legislation that requires communities located within 3.5 kilometres of a new landfill to be willing hosts.

With the backing of Oxford County, three of its communities tested the legislation in 2021 and won, ending the landfill bid in 2022.

What O.P.A.L. accomplished has lit the way for Dresden Citizens Against Reckless Environmental

Disposal (C.A.R.E.D). The non-profit group, formed to protest an application by York1 Environmental Services to expand an existing landfill, is taking a page from O.P.A.L.’s playbook, as members navigate the complexities of standing up to a large corporation.

GTA-based York1 has applied to the province to expand the scope of a dated landfill license at the former tile yard. If approved, the application could lead to as many as 700 trucks per day hauling Toronto’s construction waste to Chatham-Kent.

However, a comprehensive environmental assessment of the project has been ordered

by Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks Andrea Khanjin.

It’s estimated the EA will take anywhere from three to five years, officials said.

In a nod to O.P.A.L., Dres-

den C.A.R.E.D. chair Stefan Premdas said the input from the group has been invaluable.

“O.P.A.L. and Bryan laid the groundwork in Bill 197 for municipalities like ours facing the exact situation,”Premdas said. “And we are eternally thankful for the work they have done to help us.

“We also want to thank the local community for standing firm in opposition to this badly designed project,” he added.

From start to finish, Smith said O.P.A.L. dealt with a total of seven provincial ministers of the environment from 2012 to 2022, beginning with the Ontario Liberals and concluding with Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservatives.

Smith said he was naive at the outset of the Oxford dump battle, believing the Ontario government had the

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

The site of a proposed recycling centre/landfill sits on Irish School Road, just north of Dresden.

best interests of the people and the environment at heart.

“We discovered, at best, that they (environment ministers) are sort of like a judge of cases based on certain criteria,” he explained.

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It only takes 5 minutes to register Continued from page 2

A total of 52 per cent of his bone marrow has been invaded by cancer cells and doctors say it is spreading rapidly.

Shara and husband Darryl are hoping that putting out the call for help will secure a donor match for their son.

It only takes five minutes to register with Canadian Blood Services (CBS) as a donor, Shara explained. After filling out the online form a kit will be mailed to the applicant, who will take a swab from inside their cheek and

send it back. If a hit is found on the worldwide registry, the family is immediately notified.

In order to be considered, donors must be healthy and between the ages of 17 and 59.

People can also help by contacting CBS at 1-888-2366283 and giving blood, Shara said, as Ethan needs ongoing transfusions to survive.

In the meantime, as doctors work to bring the cancer into remission, the Hunters are preparing for a stay in Toronto where Ethan’s trans-

plant will take place. A GoFundMe has been launched to assist the family, as it will cost an estimated $30,000 at minimum for Shara to stay in the city while Ethan recovers.

Despite the gravity of his illness, Shara said Ethan refuses to give up, noting he’s in pain and the end-of-life care team is now involved.

If a donor match isn’t found, the teen may have only weeks to live.

“He’s determined,” she added. “He’s going to fight until he can’t fight no more.”

Smith said he’s glad O.P.A.L.’s experience can be used to help others.

“We don’t mind lending a hand,” he added. “From the outset we took a vow that we would help other communities and pay it forward.”

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 6

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

Opinion Keep up the fight

Dresden and area residents, and everyone else in the municipality, including councillors, deserve a heartfelt pat on the back for digging in their collective heels and saying no to a proposed recycling depot/landfill just outside the North Kent community.

But please take note that the fight to oppose York1’s plan to establish the 24/7 operation on Irish School Road is not over.

Just look at what people in and around Ingersoll had to endure.

Your fight is months old. Theirs lasted a decade.

The people of Oxford County prevented a massive landfill from locating in their community.

Bryan Smith, leader of O.P.A.L. – Oxford People Against the Landfill – said the groundswell of support from area residents who joined together to oppose Walker Environmental’s efforts to establish the landfill, which started in 2012, caught the company off guard.

We have a feeling York1 was just as surprised here.

However, that’s something we don’t understand. Landfills are generally not welcomed with open arms, especially when the proposed sites are about a kilometre away from a community.

In Ingersoll, the landfill was proposed to go into a quarry two kilometres away from the community’s downtown.

Sound familiar?

Here we have C.A.R.E.D. – Dresden Citizens Against Reckless Environmental Disposal. The group seems just as organized as O.P.A.L., which is a good sign.

But the fight has to continue day in and day out.

In Ingersoll, O.P.A.L. received regular donations to fuel the fight. It has to happen here too. And keep sending letters to your Members of Provincial Parliament, remind your councillors how important the issue is to you and remain united.

One thing working in C.A.R.E.D.’s favour is Bill 197, an omni-bus bill from the Ford government which passed in 2020. Thanks in no small part to the pressure felt from O.P.A.L., legislation was passed that requires communities located within 3.5 kilometres of a new landfill to be willing hosts.

We in Chatham-Kent are not willing hosts.

York1’s application has not been denied. They are to pay for an Environmental Assessment on the property, but that does not mean the fight is over.

Remember, the overseeing provincial ministry is the Ministry “of” the Environment, not “for” the Environment.

Stay united, oppose the proposal until the government comes out and says it will not approve the proposal.

Our letters to the editor policy The Chatham Voice welcomes letters to the editor. Our preferred method to receive letters is via e-mail to bruce@

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

Enough with all the blaming, shaming Editor: In response to the article, “Flood forces camp’s relocation,” in the July 18 Chatham Voice, stating that the encampment in Parking Lot #9 was moved due to the flooding, I can assure you that this is not true.

R.O.C.K. (Reach Out Chatham-Kent), the organization that I run, worked tirelessly over three days to move those living there. Our employees, who do outreach regularly and engage with anyone living outdoors, made sure that each person who was living there was given proper supplies, a new tent if needed, and resources to make the move to a new location.

This was because the people living there were no longer safe. Between the rise in online posting calling for action, a rumoured new activist

group and a meeting designed to bring forward their demands, and the fact that organizations closest to them were refusing services to anyone living there, it wasn’t hard to see that the safety and well-being of anyone residing in that area was no longer at the top of anyone’s lists.

How we, as a society, resort back to behaviours proven to exacerbate trauma, put up more barriers, and punish people still amazes me. Whatever the reason for anyone living in those circumstances, the issues are a result of the serious lack of funding from higher levels of government, which leads to a serious lack of wrap-around support services.

Why are we all not raging against govern-

ments who cut, cut and then cut some more – yet have expectations of those most marginalized to just pull up their socks and get over it?

I would also encourage anyone who wants to know what’s happening with outdoor encampments to use R.O.C.K. as a reference. We are out there most days – as are Chatham-Kent police, and our EMT’s, and housing workers from the municipality – looking to engage, support, and serve. The attention should go to all those workers to show appreciation for the hard work that they do.

And, more importantly, any of these articles should always include the voices of the people who are living there.

Continued on page 7

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

PAGE 7

Opinion

Being homeless is not just a simple choice Continued from page 6

When referring to overdoses, it shouldn’t be about any organization that has to respond to one, it should be about the person who had to use an unsafe supply, in an unsafe situation, who does not have enough access to services to potentially make life-changing decisions.

When referring to those living in encampments, it should be about the individuals who, for reasons so personal to each of them, have found themselves there, and what would help them at that point in their lives.

Each one of those situations involves someone with a name, a story, and should never be used to validate any organization’s importance.

Lastly, as another clarification – to oversimplify and state that there are those who “don’t want to follow the rules” or are “just choosing to be there”

– please stop. It’s never so simple, when complex trauma (years of it), which leads to serious mental health concerns, and substance use are involved.

Our “healthy” minds cannot begin to comprehend how people can live long-term in an encampment. And that’s OK, we don’t need to understand it.

But when we use such flippant terms such as “they just don’t want to follow the rules,” we’re blaming and shaming,

and that invalidates the depth of them as human beings.

If anyone genuinely believes that any one of our friends on the street wants to live that way, please come and talk to me personally. I’ll do my best to really help you to understand.

Here’s my email for anyone who wants to initiate a conversation: renee@reachoutck.com As always, appreci-

ation towards The Chatham Voice for hearing and posting my thoughts.

Renee Geniole Executive Director R.O.C.K. Missions

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PAGE 8

New wheels to help provide an AdVANtage

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Thanks to Ontario Trillium Foundation funding, Family Service Kent has upped its transportation game.

As part of its AdVANtage program, a $108,400 grant has enabled the agency to purchase a new fully accessible van, bringing the total number of vehicles in its fleet to an even dozen.

Already purchased and on the road, the new vehicle can be used as an 11-seat passenger van or for those with mobility issues requiring specialized devices such as motorized wheel-

chairs.

Family Service Kent executive director Dan Farrow said the new addition will allow more people access to the service, particularly older adults and those with disabilities in rural or low-income areas.

“The addition of an accessible vehicle will allow even more people in our community to attend important appointments and other engagements, which ultimately helps members of our community reach their full potential,” Farrow said, adding the Ontario Trillium money has made a “significant contribution” to the organization.

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A new accessible van has been added to Family Service Kent’s fleet of vehicles, thanks to a $108,400 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. FSN executive director Dan Farrow and community support services manager Marie Bergsma officially accepted the funding from Chatham-Kent–Leamington MPP Trevor Jones.

part of my job.”

Through its AdVANtage and CareLink transportation outreach, Family Service Kent helps people with tasks such as accessing medical appoint-

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HISTORY - Did you know that 1984 was a book by George Orwell that describes a dystopian future? You may not realize that it was the actual year that inspired Armstrong-Macko Automotive! Mark leased a Petro Canada station on Keil Drive, and a few short years later joined with me to open another on Lacroix and thus Armstrong-Macko was born.

NEWS - Fast forward some Forty years, and we have a major announcement! We have found an excellent team in Brent Fair and Lynn Vallee to continue driving Armstrong-Macko into the future. Yes, we have officially stepped away from the business, and both now entered our next chapter, retirement.

THANKS - It’s been an honour to serve you, our fantastic clients, many with generations of family, allowing us the privilege to educate you and show you how to save money by maintaining your vehicles - keeping them young …. for a long time.

THE NEW TEAM - Brent brings a wealth of experience, over 30 years as a technician and was the owner of Dunnville Autopro for 12 years. Lynn, a hometown gal, recently moved back to CK with Brent to both take the reins of their sister shop, Northside Autopro in 2022. Lynn has an impressive resume, managing automotive operations in various capacities for over ten years.

We are grateful to find an experienced, dedicated, and community minded team to offer you the integrity and service you deserve and expect from us. We feel confident that with the rest of the existing team and the addition of Brent and Lynn you can continue to count on Armstrong -Macko for years to come!

Northside Autopro Armstrong-Macko Autopro 651 Grand Ave. E. 77 Leeson Dr 519-354-1262 519-354-3070

napaautopro.com

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

PAGE 9

Amber Pinsonneault Broker of Record Cell 519-784-5310

Kristen Nead Broker Manager Cell 519-784-7653

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52 CROSS • $579,900

393 BALDOON #21 • $319,900

54-29338 JANE, THAMESVILLE $124,000

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Affordable end unit condo. 2br, 1.5 baths, walkout patio, garage. Call Deb Rhodes.

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87 MOLENGRAAF • $679,900

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4 SOUTHEND • $409,999

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Marco Acampora* 519-784-4348

Megan Canniff* 226-626-7133

Ashley Amato* 519-365-5677

Stephen Carroll* 519-355-9774

Lisa Everaert* 519-330-8548

Darren Hart* 226-627-8580

Sylvia Moffat** 519-355-8189

Dane Appleton* 519-436-7195

Terry Chauvin* 519-437-8498.

Eric Fitzgerald* 519-436-4865

Michelle Hetherington 519-401-2635*

Kelly-Anne Appleton* 519-365-7155

Anna-Marie Clark* 519-354-7890

Michael Gibbons* 519-365-5634

Austin Bentley 226-340-1163*

Ron Collins* 519-401-8464

Sarah Callow* 509-809-5446

Adam Deseure* 519-350-5787

Well updated. Mobile home, 2br, 1 bath, covered porch, shed. Call Elliot or Ashley Wilton.

9 CANARY, WALLACEBURG $414,900

Quiet cul-de-sac. 4br, 2 baths, covered porch, garage. Call Lisa Everaert.

Scott Poulin* 519-350-5320

Carson Warrener* 519-809-2856

Chris Papple* 519-350-1402

Katherine Rankin** 226-542-2964

Cindy Weaver** 519-360-0628

Ghassan Najjar** 519-355-8668

Brian Peifer** 519-436-2669

Deborah Rhodes* 519-401-5470

Ashley Wilton* 519-437-7564

Janet Ellen Mader* 226-881-0098

Heather Najjar** 519-355-8666

Elizabeth Peifer* 519-436-8959

David Smith* 519-350-1615

Elliot Wilton* 519-358-8755

Jeff Godreau* 519-365-4852

Krista Mall* 519-365-7462

Cass Opiela* 519-355-7804

Patrick Pinsonneault** 519-360-0141

Chris Spafford* 519-917-2635

Tori Winters* 226-881-0334

Matthew Giffin* 647-222-3472

June McDougall* 519-358-5199

Meg Palin* 226-627-2078

Chris Polley* 905-903-0505

Kate Stenton* 519-436-8377

Lisa Zimmer* 519-365-7325

CHATHAM OFFICE 425 McNaughton Ave. W. 519-354-5470

*Sales Representative **Broker

BLENHEIM OFFICE 59 Talbot St. W. 519-676-5444

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 10

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

News

Pipeline expansion underway

The Chatham Voice

Enbridge Gas has officially launched its $358-million Panhandle Regional Expansion Project.

Aimed at boosting the region’s energy capacity, the initiative will see 19 new kilometres of pipeline constructed, parallelling the existing pipeline in Enbridge’s Panhandle Transmission System.

The build, aimed at increasing a reliable and cleaner energy supply, is expected to support 7,000 jobs while enabling an estimated $4.5 billion of investment growth.

Both Premier Doug Ford and Energy and Electrification Minister Stephen Lecce were on hand in Leamington recently to mark the milestone.

“Our government is

continuing to secure the reliable and affordable energy that is critical to our plan to rebuild Ontario’s economy, keep costs down for families and build homes across the province” Ford said. “This project will help deliver that reliable energy supply, and, in the process, create good-paying jobs, support our world-leading greenhouse sector and power Ontario’s economic growth for many years to come.”

In his comments, Lecce said the government’s continued priority is to deliver affordable energy to Ontario families.

“Our population is growing, and the economy is electrifying, which underscores why our government is determined to generate more clean and

reliable energy to drive our growth,” he said.

The Panhandle Regional Expansion Project is part of the province’s efforts to meet Ontario’s growing energy demands.

The Panhandle Transmission System currently serves residential, commercial, industrial, greenhouse and power generation customers in Dawn-Euphemia, St. Clair Township, Chatham-Kent, Windsor, Lakeshore, Leamington, Kingsville, Essex, Amherstburg, LaSalle and Tecumseh.

The project has a targeted in-service date of Nov. 1, with additional construction to be completed in 2025.

• With files from the Southpoint Sun

Image courtesy The Southpoint Sun

Shovels were ready to go as Enbridge Gas announced its $358 million natural gas expansion during a media event at Leamington’s Double Diamond Farms. Pictured breaking ground are Premier Doug Ford, Enbridge Gas EVP and President of Gas Distribution and Storage Michele Harradence, Essex County Warden and Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald, and Minister of Energy and Electrification Stephen Lecce.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 11

News

Bridge might be a no-go for WAMBO Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Work continues on the L.O. Stonehouse Pedestrian Bridge in downtown Wallaceburg. It was hoped that the bridge, out of commission for some time, would be fixed in time for the WAMBO (Wallaceburg Antique and Motor Boat Outing) taking place on the Aug. 9-11 weekend.

But that may not be the case, as unforeseen delays, including weather, have slowed some of the upgrades. According to officials, the municipality is working with WAMBO organizers to provide a back-up plan in the event the bridge isn’t ready in time for the event.

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Deb Rhodes

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debrhodes@royallepage.ca “THE TRUSTED AGENT THAT GETS YOU RESULTS”

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 12

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 13

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

PAGE 15

News

Redstone Tire and Auto Service, Chatham, Ontario.

A new automotive repair business is opening soon in Chatham, Ontario. Professionally managed and focused on customer satisfaction.

We are hiring a Licensed 310S Automotive Technician.

Compensation up to $35.00 per hour depending on experience.

Contributed image

This is a full-time on-site role for an Automotive Technician at Redstone Tire and Auto Service in Chatham, ON. The Automotive Technician will be responsible for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles, performing inspections, conducting routine maintenance, and ensuring the safety and reliability of automotive systems.

Members of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation board of directors and staff are joined by Lori Marshall (former president and CEO, CKHA) and Deb Crawford (board chair, CKHA) for a cheque presentation celebrating $643,894 in approved funding during the 2023/24 fiscal year.

a.new.redstone@gmail.com

$644K released to CKHA The Chatham Voice

At its recent annual general meeting, Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF) representatives handed over $643,894 in approved funding to CKHA officials.

The funds were raised from April 1, 2023 to March 31 of this year.

“This success is a testament to the dedication and generosity of our wonderful community, and we want to thank all of the supporters and champions of our foun-

dation who have helped us not only meet but exceed expectations through our fundraising efforts over the past year,” said Christine Mitchell, CKHAF president and CEO in a media release.

“It means the world to us to be able to make such a profound investment in our hospital across so many units and programs, and we celebrate the lives impacted, the programs enhanced, and the community connections strengthened along the way.”

Funding from the 2023/24 fiscal year has been invested

in equipment, facility upgrades, and program innovation across a wide range of units and programs at CKHA’s Chatham and Wallaceburg sites, including dialysis, mental health and addictions, operating room, women and children’s, rehabilitation, urology, diagnostic imaging, the oncology/cancer clinic, and more.

During the June AGM, the foundation also welcomed three new members to the board, Kaleena Cryderman, Mary Rule, and Satinder Singh Chopra.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 16

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

News

Rural housing plans expand

By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative The Ridgetown Independent

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent took the next step towards allowing additional houses on existing rural properties by unanimously voting

at a recent properties.

“It’s more catered to meeting.

The muC o u n c i l the conversations we nicipality a p p r o v e d often get, ‘Can I build a will also a d m i n i s - house on my grandpar- seek public tration’s feedback recommen- ents farm property,’ or on creatdation to ‘I’d like to be the next ing new begin a pub- generation in farming, policies to lic consulta- but there’s no place for i n c r e a s e tion period me to live conveniently residential to permit housing opadditional close to the farm.” portunities d e t a c h e d - Coun. Melissa Harrigan while priordwellings itizing the on farm and non-farm needs of agriculture oper-

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“It’s more catered to the conversations we often get, ‘Can I build a house on my grandparents farm property,’ or ‘I’d like to be the next generation in farming, but there’s no place for me to live conveniently close to the farm,’” Harrigan told council.

Public engagement and information will be posted on the Let’s Talk Chatham-Kent website, where residents can pro-

vide input.

The municipality will also publicize information in local print media advertisements and consult with the Agricultural Advisory Committee and the local agriculture organizations.

The consultation period will be open until September, and the administration is directed to provide its recommendations to the council in early October.

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West Kent Coun. Melissa Harrigan made a successful motion back in March directing administration to prepare a report after being approached by residents in her ward interested in farm succession planning or keeping members close to home.

Harrigan said this is not about taking away farmland to create housing or putting up subdivisions

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

Sports hall hands out bursaries The Chatham Voice

For the twenty-first consecutive year, the Chatham Sports Hall of Fame presented a bursary to a graduating student in each of Chatham’s four secondary schools recently The winners are people who have “contributed significantly to the betterment of

athletics in their own school in a non-playing capacity,” hall officials said.

The awards recognize students who have given their time unselfishly performing one or more of the following tasks – coaching, managing, scoring, timing, fundraising, or serving with the athletic society to improve the school’s athletic pro-

PAGE 17

News

Support funding Contributed image

The South Kent Wind Community Fund donated to NeighbourLink at its annual general meeting. From left, Barb Baker, director of the Chatham-Kent Community Fund which oversees the SKWCF; Al Baker of NeighbourLink; and Sue Adamson of the South Kent Wind advisory committee. The funds support NeighbourLink’s aWAY Opportunities program which helps kids to go to camp.

gram.

Bursary winners are Sabrina Guenter, Chatham Christian; Holly Cundle, Chatham-Kent Secondary; Cidney Fraser, John McGregor; and Quinn Bernardi, Ursuline College.

The awards, including a certificate and a $300 bursary, were presented to each of the students.

OPTI-FEST 2024

Bothwell Optimist Club

AUTOMOTIVE FLEA MARKET Friday & Saturday • 8:00am

Food Vendors Entertainment Draws Live Music Saturday 11am-12pm & 1pm-2pm

Special Draws for Great Gifts

Participant draws start at 11am and are held every hour on the hour until all gifts are gone.

All winning numbers will be posted on the board at the prize table. Check often so you don’t miss out, as prize numbers will not be broadcast.

Must be present to win!

Major Draws start Saturday at 3:30pm Vehicle exits will be closed for 15 minutes following the major draws on Saturday.

FIREMENS 50/50 DRAW at 4:00pm ($37,151 each way in 2023)

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 18

Urban sprawl a concern for farmers

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Farmers across the province, including members of the Kent Federation of Agriculture (KFA), are concerned about the declining amount of usable farmland in Ontario.

According to the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, Ontario sees a loss of 319 acres of arable land a day. It’s based on statistics gleaned out of the 2021 Census of Agriculture.

Brad Snobelen, president of the KFA, said preserving that land for agricultural use is of vital importance.

“Here in Chatham-Kent,

we have highly productive naturally irrigated soil,” he said. “We have around 70 different commercially viable crops that can be grown. Maintaining agricultural land is very important here.

Chatham-Kent can literally feed the world.”

Calling recent advancement of urban sprawl in the municipality “very concerning,” Snobelin urges municipal officials to look elsewhere first when planning home construction.

“The municipality needs to consider a vacant land tax within urban borders.

Add a tax to land held by speculators that is not developed,” Snobelin said.

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News

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Ontario is losing nearly 320 acres of farmland every day due to development. In Chatham-Kent, the Kent Federation of Agriculture has voiced its concerns, but municipal officials say loss of farmland to urban expansion remains minimal.

“This land has services like roads, power, water and sewer.”

The KFA president believes this would help us grow within our urban borders and slow the urban sprawl.

Ryan Jacques, director of planning services for the municipality, said loss of farmland to urban sprawl is a fact here, but

it’s not proceeding at any breakneck pace.

Jacques said figures from the Census of Agriculture taken in 2016 and again in 2021 indicate Chatham-Kent had lost just 81 acres of farmland to residential use over that five-year period.

He said 70 of those acres were located in Chatham, and the remain-

ing 11 were in Blenheim.

In both cases, they fell within the planned urban settlement boundaries of each community.

Snobelin is also encouraging the municipality to plan to build up and not out for the future.

Jacques said C-K, in an effort to accommodate a growing local population and employment base

over the long term, is initiating a public process this fall that will provide updated public policy to guide urban development to 2048.

All citizens, people with farming interests, and people with development interests will be invited to participate in this decision-making process.

The Chatham Voice

survey on the proposal, that would see the Chatham-Kent Civic Centre, the Chatham-Kent Museum and the Chatham-Kent Public Library relocate to the old Sears building, is available on-

line.

Open until Aug. 7, it can be found at letstalkchatham-Kent.ca. Project renderings from a recent public open house can also be viewed on the site.

According to municipal officials, council will receive a report on the mat-

ter in October that will include public feedback, an updated cost estimate, concept design and staff recommendations.

A third public engagement open house is planned for the end of summer, but the date has yet to be announced.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

PAGE 19

Business

Auto shop changing hands

The Chatham Voice

After 40 years of entrepreneurial success, Chatham’s Armstrong-Macko Automotive has changed hands.

Taking over are Brent Fair and Lynn Vallee, a pair that bring plenty of technical and business expertise to the job.

Armstrong-Macko Automotive got its start in 1984 when Mark Armstrong leased a Petro Canada station on Keil Drive. A few short years later he joined Dave Macko to open another on Lacroix Street and Armstrong-Macko was born.

Heading into retirement, both Mark and Dave want to tell their “fantastic” clients it’s been an honour to serve them, along

with many generations of family, allowing them the privilege of educating customers, showing them how to save money by maintaining their vehicles and “keeping them young – for a long time.”

The new team has a wealth of knowledge.

Fair has over 30 years’ experience as a technician and was the owner of Dunnville Autopro for 12 years. Vallee, who hails from C-K, moved back with Fair to share the reins of their sister shop, Northside Autopro in 2022. She has an impres-

sive resume and has managed various automotive operations in different capacities for more than 10 years.

Macko summed up the change by saying he and Mark have faith the new owners will continue to provide expert service.

“We are grateful to find “an experienced, dedicated and community minded team to offer you the integrity and service you deserve and expect from us.”

JA to sell Chatham office

JA South Western Ontario has announced plans to sell off its location in Chatham.

The charity is dedicated to empowering youth with relevant hands-on learning.

Continued on page 21

Contributed image

Brent Fair and Lynn Vallee are taking over operation of Armstrong-Macko Automotive in Chatham. After 40 years, original owners Mark Armstrong and Dave Macko are retiring.

PAGE 20

THE CHATHAM VOICE

Community Events

Thursday, August 1, 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-1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm. LA Bingo starts at 7:00pm Food available. Everyone is welcome.

Friday, August 2, 2024: • Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In. 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.

• 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. Supper will be served from 4:00–6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are Meat Loaf or Fish & Chips, $13.00.

Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639.

EVveryone is welcome.

• Enjoy a friendly game of Pepper, 1pm. St. Clair Estates, 15 Dunkirk, Chatham. $3.00 per person. Everyone Welcome.

• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St is Honey Garlic Chicken with potatoes vegetable, coleslaw and a bun. Dine ins $13 and pickup $14. All meals are served at 6pm. Everyone welcome.

Please call 519-352-8291 to order or reserve.

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

• Art on the Boulevard in Erieau; 9 am to 4 pm. Free event, meet and purchase works of over 100 artists from across Ontario. Tour cottages and homes in the village from 10am2pm. $20 per ticket. Tickets can be purchased at the information table.

• 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 5:30 pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 3:00pm–5:30pm.

Entertainment by Exit 31 from 4:309:30. Come check out our menu.

Everyone is welcome.

Sunday, August 4, 2024: • Buck Twenty is back on the Two Creeks stage at 6pm. Canadian country band with great energy. Their songs burst with harmonies & catchy hooks. No admission, but we do pass the hat. Food & drink from Scouts.

1 km north of Wheatley. twocreeks.ca Monday, August 5, 2024: • Enjoy a friendly game of Euchre, 1pm. St. Clair Estates, 15 Dunkirk Chatham. $3.00 per person. Everyone Welcome Tuesday, August 6, 2024: • Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham 11:00am-9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00am–1:30pm. 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.

Wednesday, August 7, 2024: • Chatham Concert Band concerts every Wednesday from 7pm-8:30pm in Tecumseh Park. More information available on Facebook page or website.

• 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. Everyone is welcome.

Thursday, August 8, 2024: • Bill’s Place Community Space DropIn. 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 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.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

Fun Stuff

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

CLUES ACROSS 1. Spiritual leaders 7. A solution 13. Fortified wine 14. Edible mollusk 16. Blood group 17. A way to compare 19. Gov’t lawyer 20. Actor Ciaran 22. Calendar month 23. Very willing 25. __ ex Machina • Come join us at The Chatham Le26. Satisfies gion, corner of William & Colborne St. 28. Type of berry Chatham 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen 29. Distinctive practice 30. Popular pickup open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. truck model Supper served from 4:00–6:00. No 31. Dekagram orders after 5:30pm. Specials are Ham 33. Naturally occurring & Scallops or Fish & Chips, $13.00. solid material Take out is also available by calling 34. Company officer 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. On 36. Villains the patio, you will be entertained by 38. Cricket frogs

Friday, August 9, 2024: • The 2024 Trivia Night will take place at the Sombra Museum Cultural Centre (3476 St. Clair Pkwy), on Friday, August 9th 7-9PM. Recommended team sizes are 1-6 people. Admission is $10. The event will have snacks and refreshments and will offer teams the chance to win back their admission.

Ray Whaling & Mike Rossi from 7:00 to 10:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

40. German founder of psychology 41. Endured 43. A female domestic 44. A situation you can be in 45. Cigarette (slang) 47. Fiber optic network (abbr.)

48. Belgian composer Walter 51. Employee stock ownership plan 53. Belonging to the bottom layer 55. Musical or vocal sound 56. Yankees’ great Judge 58. Dickens character 59. Beloved late sportscaster Craig 60. South Dakota

• Enjoy a friendly game of Pepper, 1pm. St. Clair Estates, 15 Dunkirk Chatham. $3.00 per person. Everyone Welcome.

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.

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

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

Come for a tour and receive a

FREE LUNCH

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

61. Exposing human vice or folly to ridicule 64. Atomic #79 65. Former Braves pitcher Julio 67. Humor 69. Shawl 70. Hospital unit CLUES DOWN 1. Animal disease 2. Commercial 3. Arts and crafts supplies 4. Containers 5. Investment vehicle 6. A way to greet in a friendly way 7. Bulged downward 8. “A Day Without” singer 9. Lay about 10. Intestinal 11. Negative 12. Caused to be loved 13. Prominent in Islamic eschatology 15. Sincere 18. Not in 21. Number above the line in a fraction 24. Bill Murray chased one 26. Pouch 27. Swedish krona 30. Start over 32. Wild white or yellow flower 35. Fourteen 37. Visual way of interacting with a computer (abbr.)

38. Up-to-date 39. Campaigns 42. Touch lightly 43. “Boardwalk Empire” actress Gretchen 46. Violent seizure of property 47. One who supports the Pope 49. Malaise 50. Body fluid 52. Inauthentic person 54. Title of respect 55. Chilean city 57. Central Japanese city 59. Garment 62. Draw from 63. Automobile 66. The man 68. Top government lawyer

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

PAGE 21

Business

JA transitions away from bricks, mortar

Continued from page 19

However, it announced it is realigning resources post pandemic.

“After thoughtful deliberation, the board of directors has decided to sell our longstanding property in Chatham,” said Karen Gallant, president and CEO of JA South Western Ontario, in a media release. “While this building had been integral to our operations, this move allows us to concentrate more effectively on our core mission of fostering financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship among youth.”

JA officials claimed the decision to divest from property ownership “underscores JA South Western Ontario’s commitment to enhancing program delivery and community impact.”

According to JA figures, the charity has reached 3,725 Chatham-Kent students during the 20232024 school year – a 150-per-cent increase from 2021-2022 and a 400-per-cent rise since 2018-2019.

JA South Western Ontario engages students from Grades 4 to 12 through diverse learning experiences including in-class sessions, conferences, and digital platforms, officials said.

“We are grateful for the community’s support as we transition to this

next phase,” said Gallant.

“This strategic realignment enables us to expand our reach and deepen our impact on the future leaders of Chatham-Kent.”

Ride for Hospice tops $18,000

Jeff Thibert’s Ride for Hospice pedalled in a total of $18,202.25, sprinting past the goal of $10,000.

With support from Van Hoof Siding’s Brad McAuliffe, Thibert headed out in early July with a goal of biking 1,000 kilometres in 75 hours.

One highlight of the ride was an encounter with two homeless brothers near Stratford. After learning what Thibert was up to, he said the men gave him their last $2.25 and set him on his way.

Fore! Indoors

A new indoor golf simulator experience is coming to Chatham this fall.

Dubbed “Top Shelf Indoor Golf,” the facility will feature world class state-of-the-art indoor golf simulators, ideal for both the beginner and the seasoned pro.

Experienced golfers can fine tune their game, while newbies can experience a fun and interactive way to learn. Top Shelf’s simulators feature stunning graphics, realistic gameplay, high speed cameras to replay

your swing and precise ball-tracking technology allowing golfers to improve their game. Lessons are also available, using the latest simulation technology to help customers to elevate their skills.

However, the business is about more than training, as Top Shelf Indoor Golf is also an entertainment venue ideal for a night out with friends or a corporate event. It features a licensed bar, a small food menu and decor to rival any big city venue, according to John Sulman, one of the three owners.

“We are going for the full experience,” Sulman explained, noting patrons can challenge their friends to a round of golf, enjoy some food and drinks, and have fun by experiencing the game in a whole new way.

Co-owner Lachlan Kennedy said the partners are thrilled to bring the new technology to Chatham.

“Top Shelf Indoor Golf will be world class,” Kennedy said. “We will have 24/7 access and our tech

will allow golfers to get a round in even when we aren’t here.”

Co-owner Chris Beattie said the goal of the business is to create a welcoming and entertaining environment where golfers of all levels can come together to improve their game and have fun.

“We will have five bays, a billiards table, dart lanes as well as a fantastic

SHOP LOCAL. SAVE LOCAL

bar and lounge area,” Beattie said.

To find out more visit topshelfindoorgolf.com.

Top Shelf Indoor Golf is slated to open in early October.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 22

News

OBITUARIES

Debbie Cottel 64, Wednesday, July 10, 2024 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Roger Wilston 86, Monday, July 15, 2024 Life Transitions

Fernand Joseph Gagnon 76, Saturday, July 20, 2024 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Kim McGraw 70, Friday, July 19, 2024 Life Transitions

Wesley Freeman Hooker 75, Tuesday, July 23, 2024 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Robert “Bob” Read 70, Sunday, July 21, 2024 Life Transitions

Christine Cecilia Thompson 94, Friday, July 19, 2024 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Curtis Crewe 82, Sunday, July 21, 2024 Life Transitions

Maria Antonia Margliaro 88, Thursday, July 25, 2024 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Irene VanderVeer (Foekens) 66, Monday, July 22, 2024 Life Transitions

George William Sherman III 70, Saturday, July 20, 2024 Badder Funeral Home

Sandra Racette Tuesday, July 23, 2024 Life Transitions

Thomas Richard Hawken Sunday, July 21, 2024 Badder Funeral Home

Harvey Momney 90, Saturday, July 13, 2024 Nicholls Funeral Home

Marilyn Gellner 83, Monday, July 22, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Joan Parker 78, Monday, July 22, 2024 Nicholls Funeral Home

Doug Jacques 76, Wednesday, July 24, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Harold Moir 80, Tuesday, July 23, 2024 Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Laura McGuire Saturday, July 13, 2024 Life Transitions

See full obituaries at chathamvoice.com/obiutaries

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Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

There’s plenty to ToCK about when it comes to the inaugural Taste of Chatham-Kent initiative that celebrates ethnic diversity within the municipality. At a media event recently, organizers outlined some of the events that will be part of the program running until the end of September. Co-chairs Tracy Callaghan, left, and Dava Robichaud, right, discuss the upcoming ONAM Harvest Festival with Chatham-Kent Malayalee Association members Seby Joseph and Nissam Madathil.

ONAM Harvest part of ToCK

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

There are 70 different languages spoken in Chatham-Kent, including Malayalee.

It’s the language of people from the South Indian province of Kerala. Today 150plus families from the region are calling C-K home.

Now in its third year of operation, the Malayalee Association of Chatham-Kent is gearing up for its annual ONAM Harvest Festival to be held at Ferguson Park in Thamesville Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s but one of the many events on the menu for the Taste of Chatham-Kent (ToCK) which kicked July 27.

Nissam Madathil, program co-ordinator for the association, said many families chose to move to the municipality from the GTA following the pandemic.

Traditional food, dancing, singing and a tug-o-war competition will be held during ONAM – a celebration that’s marked around the world.

Organizers are currently putting out a call to the community to enter seven-member teams in the tug-o-war.

“There are cultural things that people miss when they migrated here, so we are trying to recreate some of that,” Madathil explained, noting food will be served on banana leaves, in the custom of Kerala.

However, while the associ-

ation helps new immigrants feel at home, it also provides an opportunity for local residents to experience a different culture.

“We want to invite everyone to come out and get to know each other,” said association secretary Seby Joseph.

Food will be available for purchase at ONAM, but other events are free. Teams who enter the tug-o-war competition will need to pay an entry fee.

ONAM is but one of choices on the Taste of Chatham-Kent menu of activities.

With a focus on bringing together the diverse cultures that populate Chatham-Kent, ToCK has a host of activities planned for the event that runs till mid-September.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 24

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024

HUMAN TRAFFICKING HAPPENS IN LARGE CITIES AND SMALL, EVEN CHATHAM-KENT KNOW THE SIGNS RECOGNIZE THE BEHAVIOUR Intimidation • Threats Physical Violence • Loss of Control Seclusion / Isolation • Manipulation

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