The Chatham Voice, Sept. 7, 2023

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Jeff and Tara Fancy of Charing Cross enjoy the breeze off Lake Erie near Erie Beach after cycling on a perfect summer day. Those summer days are drawing to a close, as fall colours are starting to appear in places across Chatham-Kent.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 2

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

News

$500K in drugs seized in bust The Chatham Voice

A Chatham man faces charges following a recent drug raid in Chatham, where Chatham-Kent police seized half a million dollars in illegal and controlled substances, and a cache of firearms.

On Aug. 23, police raided a residence on McFadden Avenue, as

well as the homeowner’s vehicle, plus a storage unit on Queen’s Line.

What they found was about $500,000 worth of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and other controlled substances, as well as drug paraphernalia, such as digital scales, packaging materials, a counting machine, vacuum seal machine, cell phones and a large

amount of cash.

Police also seized six handguns, 11 long guns, and several hundred rounds of ammunition.

One person, a 37-year-old

Chatham man, has a lot to answer for. He faces six charges of possession for the purposes of trafficking – one each for cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, LSD, oxy-

codone and hydromorphone.

Police say he was transported to police headquarters and released with conditions and a future court date of Oct. 5.

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Police showcase a sample of the drugs, cash and guns seized in recent bust that saw a local man arrested.

Memorial Arena springs leaks The Chatham Voice

Leaks in the cooling system at Memorial Arena will delay its opening until late September.

During annual testing of the compressor room system at Memorial Arena, a leak under the floor was discovered, as well as issues with the piping itself.

While these issues are resolved, there will be a three week delay in opening the ice at Memorial Arena.

Due to the unexpected repairs, Erikson Arena will be opening early this year to ensure ice times are available for the start of the skating season.

Memorial Arena was to be open Sept. 5 and now is expected to be open for ice rentals on Sept. 26. Erikson Arena will be open Sept. 8.

Some ice times will be shifted at various arenas throughout Chatham-Kent to accommodate ice times from Memorial Arena.

If there are questions about ice times, contact 311.

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

Chatham Plumbing pumps up community

to the store and opened both entrances to let in as much light as possible. They added candles The Aug. 24 storm brought us at the counter.

“We had quite a few stragglers some of the worst of Mother Nature, and some of the best of coming in looking for pumps,” he said. “We had a couple of elpeople.

Look no further than Chatham derly people who came in and Plumbing where owners Jeremy had been bailing their sump all and Meghan McTavish quick- night.

“On the honour ly realized the need and worked “I saw the devastation system, between our regular sump to accommodate around town. I figured pumps and water customers, handing out 17 pumps, there’d be a few people backup pumps, we handed out despite the fact pretty down on their 17. We took peothey had no pow- luck.” ple’s names and er to complete any - owner Jeremy McTavish phone numbers transactions. down.”

As of the mornThis all took place in a fouring of Aug. 29, every single person had returned to the small hour window on the Friday bebusiness and settled up their fore the power was restored by early afternoon. account, Jeremy said.

Jeremy said the Chatham-Kent He and Meghan and their two children lived through the support system of neighbours storm just like the rest of us. helping neighbours remains They live atop the Richmond strong, adding many of the people who came in were accompaStreet store.

“Our power went out about nied by a neighbour.

“The amount of 11 p.m. (Aug. 24). people we saw We came down “The amount of peocoming in here into the store beple we saw coming in with their nextcause we got the door neighbour, tornado warn- here with their nexthelping out, was ing like everyone door neighbour, helpkind of cool,” he else,” he said. ing out, was kind of added. “Almost And the next cool. Almost everyone everyone came in morning, the came in pairs, helping pairs, helping out power remained out each other.” each other.” off.

C h a t h a m “I went for a cof- - owner Jeremy McTavish Plumbing is no fee run to try to find a Tim Horton’s that was stranger to lending out items open. I saw the devastation to help folks. Jeremy said it’s around town,” Jeremy said. “I something they do every week.

“If they need a tool for 30 minfigured there’d be a few people utes, they shouldn’t have to buy pretty down on their luck.”

With that in mind, he returned one. I can just lend them ours,”

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 3

News

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Chatham Plumbing owner Jeremy McTavish handed out 17 pumps to people in need the morning after a downburst knocked down trees and knocked out power in Chatham, despite the fact the store also had no powCELEBRATING *Valid Thurs., September 7th - Wed., September 13th er. Every customer that 85 YEARS came in that morning for a 1938 - 2023 THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING LOCAL pump returned by Aug. 29 Fresh Bacon Fresh Fresh to settle their account.

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he said.

Many of the plumbers who do business with Chatham Plumbing do the same.

“They help people out with items they have salvaged from another job,” he said.

One of Chatham Plumbing’s suppliers helped Jeremy out as well. Chatham Plumbing had sold out of three of their most popular pumps on the Friday, so he drove to London and met with the supplier.

“He loaded up my truck and I brought them back and sold them out on Saturday,” Jeremy said.

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PAGE 4

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

News

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

A public gathering at the new R.O.C.K. Missions site on Richmond Street marked International Overdose Awareness Day Aug. 31. First responders were on hand, as well as volunteers with the Chatham-Kent Drug Awareness Council. Officials and volunteers handed out free naloxone kits, and there was pizza, T-shirts and children’s activities. Those who had lost someone to overdose were invited to write a tribute to their loved one on a backyard sun sail. Among those helping were Emily Guerin, Kayla Stefik, Ken James, Chris Taylor, Terry Gardiner, Brad Davis and R.O.C.K. Mission executive director Renee Geniole.

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

Calling lost loved ones in the wind disorders.

Leonie VanPuymbroeck, who lost her 26-year-old son Robert Martin to suicide in 2022, The first call has been made attended the gathering, along on the McKinlay Woodlands with her husband Darrell and Memorial Forest’s new wind granddaughter Lily. She said the phone is another tool to help phone.

Lily Martin, 10, who lost her deal with the “rollercoaster” of uncle to suicide last year, was grief that follows suicide.

She said her family has rethe first to pick up the vintage rotary phone’s receiver follow- ceived a great deal of help navigating their loss ing its recent inby taking part in stallation at C.M. “I talk to him (Robert) After;.

Wilson Conserva- every day. I have a “I talk to him tion Area. spiritual connection (Robert) every The project – a day,” Leonie excollaboration that to him and that really includes McKin- helps. The After; group plained. “ I have a spiritual conneclay Funeral Home, has been amazing. It tion to him and the Thamesview helps you understand that really helps.

Family Health that the things you go The After; group Team’s After; prohas been amazgram, and the through are normal.” ing. It helps you Lower Thames - Leonie VanPyumbroeck understand that Valley Conservation Authority – is modeled af- the things you go through are ter an initiative that got its start normal.”

Her husband Darrell, stepfaa more than a decade ago in Jather to Robert, said he too has pan.

In 2010, a garden designer who been helped immensely by the lost his cousin to cancer put up participating in After;.

“The group has made me aware an old telephone booth, which included a disconnected phone, other people are going through so he could still talk to his loved the same things,” he added. one and feel connected. The idea “You can know what to expect caught on and wind phones are to some degree, that’s why it’s now springing up around the important to talk about it. If people don’t talk about it, the strugglobe.

Two families, who are part of gle will never go away.”

After; members Liz and Nate the Chatham After; group – that helps families deal with the loss Nauta, who lost their 15-yearof someone to suicide – were on old son Braedon to suicide five hand at the ceremony to check years ago, were also on hand to out the phone first hand and at- attach a nameplate. Both like the tach a nameplate of their loved concept of the wind phone, as it one to the wooden box it’s en- provides tangible way for them cased in beneath a leafy maple to connect to Braedon.

Because their son was cremattree.

The semicolon in “After;” sym- ed and his ashes were cast upon bolizes a continuation of some- a lake in Northern Ontario, Nate one’s life and is used as an af- said the phone offers the couple firmation of solidarity against “a nice alternative for us to come a wide range of mental health and connect with our son.”

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 5

News

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Pam Wright/Chatham Voice

Lily Martin and her grandpa Darrell VanPuymbroeck check out the new wind phone at C.M. Wilson Conservation Area. Part of the McKinlay Woodlands Memorial Forest, the phone provides a way for people to grieve by talking to loved ones they have lost, sending their messages on the wind, while enjoying the peace of nature.

Thamesview Family Health Team social worker Brenda Stevens, who helps co-ordinate After;, said the wind phone is another tool to assist families impacted by loss.

“We hope other grieving families will come and visit and use it,” Stevens said.

Anyone experiencing the loss of a loved to suicide is invited to contact the After; group at 519354-0070 ext. 617.

The week of Sept. 11 to 16 is Suicide Awareness Week in Ontario.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 6

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

Opinion Strong concerns We had hoped this would not come to Chatham-Kent.

At the recent Association of Municipalities of Ontario gathering in London, Ontario Premier Doug Ford expanded the number of municipalities that will receive “strong mayor” powers.

And Chatham-Kent was included in the new list. (See facing page for full details.)

Ostensibly, the powers are to help municipalities build new housing – something that is sorely needed across the province, including here in Chatham-Kent. If C-K sees 1,100 new homes built by 2031, it can tap into a $1.2 billion fund set up by the province to promote home building.

That sounds great, and the funding will be doled out on a performance evaluation process.

However, mayors also have increased powers that could conceivably allow the top elected official in a municipality to create a fiefdom.

Critics of the strong mayor powers call it “undemocratic.” It gives mayors the power to hire the municipality’s chief administrative officer, hire and fire department heads, and even override council-approved bylaws with the support of one third of coun-

cil, and prepare the city’s budget.

Now, we aren’t suggesting that Darrin Canniff will let the added power go to his head, but 2031 is a long ways away, with two municipal elections between now and then.

Imagine, if you would, a situation where, say, a very selfish individual is elected mayor. He or she could handpick the executive management team and surround themselves with “yes” people.

Canniff said two-thirds of council could veto rogue decisions, but how that comes into play with the strong mayors’ powers is a bit hazy.

We have seen at least one situation where a developer who was at odds with the town in which he operated, managed to get elected mayor. His presence led to a house cleaning of sorts of town staff as they sought jobs in other municipalities, thus weakening the town. Some very veteran, capable personnel left rather than put up with what they claimed was harassment by their new mayor.

After one term, the new mayor was gone.

This did happen, and can again.

Remember, voter turnout is typically terrible at the municipal level.

Our letters to the editor policy The Chatham Voice welcomes letters to the editor. Our preferred method to receive letters is via e-mail to bruce@ chathamvoice.com (use “Letter” in the subject line).

You can also drop them off or mail

them to us at The Chatham Voice, 71 Sass Rd., Unit 4, Chatham, Ont, N7M 5J4.

The Chatham Voice reserves the right to edit letters to the editor for brevity and clarity. All letters need to be signed.

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Liability for errors or non-insertion is limited to the amount paid for the cost of space occupied by the error. Claims of errors must be made prior to the next publication date.

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

Horrible news, with added financial pain Editor: I am writing you this letter because I want the public to know how our great health-care system treats families who need to access transportation system to get our loved ones home from the hospital when they are wanting to go home to die from a terminal illness.

The experience that I had on Aug. 19 was so heartbreaking and frustrating to me. My husband of four weeks was diagnosed back in November 2022 with multiple myeloma, stage 3 of 3. On Aug. 11, we were able to fulfill one of the things on his bucket list by taking our newly restored 1997 Dodge Dakota pickup down the racetrack at St. Thomas Dragway.

We had a follow up visit on Aug. 18 at the

London Health Sciences Centre with the stem cell specialist we had been dealing with before, during and after his stem cell transplant in June of this year. When we met with the doctor, he told us that the cancer had come back with a vengeance.

All Tom wanted to do after getting the news was to go home to his “girls” – our two dogs – and the oncologist and I were determined to make this happen, going so far as the oncologist said that he would bring him home if I couldn’t get the non-emergency transfer service to bring him home.

First, they told the hospital staff that no one could ride with him back to Chatham, yet when the hospital staff

told me that I had to make the call he was not going to a medical facility that it would cost me $777 and that I needed a credit card to make this payment before they would even consider booking transportation.

Imagine my shock.

First, I was told earlier that day that my husband had less than a week to live and then that it was going to cost me $777 to bring him home to die with me in our home.

So now I have to pay this bill as well as make funeral arrangements when we had been expecting to have four or five years after his transplant together.

Karen Peach Chatham

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

THE CHATHAM VOICE

Canniff given more power

by Ford gov’t

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Chatham-Kent has been added to the list of Ontario municipalities whose top elected official is eligible for so-called “strong mayor” powers.

The announcement, made recently

by Premier Doug Ford at the annual Association of Municipalities of Ontario conference in London, brings Mayor Darrin Canniff into the fold, joining dozens of other leaders across the province.

The Strong Mayors initiative deals primarily with new housing; and if municipalities commit in writing to a designated number of housing starts by Oct. 15 of this year, Strong Mayor powers will kick in Oct. 31.

Based on a formula set out by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Chatham-Kent’s target is to create 1,100 new homes by 2031.

It means the municipality would get a slice of the $1.2 billion in incentives.

According to the ministry report, performance will be evaluated on the percentage of housing starts compared to the goal. Municipalities that exceed their targets will be eligible for additional funding while those that don’t achieve at least 80 per cent of their target will receive no funding at all.

The issue will be coming forward to council for discussion on Sept. 11, according to Mayor Canniff.

Bringing new funding into Chatham-Kent is a plus, Canniff told The Voice, adding he thinks building 1,100 new homes is do-able.

“Based on our growth, 1,100 new starts are very achievable,” Canniff said. “If we don’t do this, we won’t be eligible for any of the money.”

As for worries that a mayor with strong powers could get carried away and make rogue decisions, Canniff doesn’t see that as a problem locally as a two-thirds council vote

can veto any decision.

“I see that as a non-issue,” the mayor explained. “I believe in democracy and that we can all work together. I think our council does a pretty good job of making decisions.”

However, critics of the strong mayor powers have been vocal in their opposition of the legislation, calling it “undemocratic.” It gives mayors the power to hire the municipality’s chief administrative officer, hire and fire some staff department heads, propose housing-related bylaws, override council-approved bylaws with the support of one third of council, and prepare the municipalty’s budget.

The powers could also include reorganizing departments, creating council committees, and appointing chairpersons and vice-chairpersons of council committees.

However, Canniff doesn’t see this being a problem in Chatham-Kent.

“Chatham-Kent is amazing and we’re growing,” Canniff added, noting more people are choosing to locate here, which will make the goal of 1,100 housing starts within reach.

Ford has set a minimum target of 1.5 million new homes to be built by 2031, saying he wants to help young people and newcomers who are “priced out of the dream,” adding the status quo is unacceptable.

The Strong Mayor Powers, which will allow municipalities to circumvent some of the red tape, will spur growth, the premier has stated.

“These are incredible sums of money that will reward municipalities for building homes and help pay for important infrastructure and community building projects,” Ford has said in previously published reports.

The exact formula as to how the funding will be allotted has not yet been made public by the province.

To date, it is unclear how much of the Strong Mayor incentive money will be funnelled towards building supportive or geared-to-income housing.

PAGE 7

News

Notice of Open House Ridge Landfill, Waste Connections of Canada In the spring of 2023 Waste Connections of Canada initiated an Environmental Screening Process under Ontario Regulation 101/07 (Waste Management Projects Regulation) and the Environmental Assessment Act to increase the annual fill rate at the Ridge Landfill. The landfill currently receives 1.3 million tonnes of non-hazardous solid waste per year and it is proposed to increase to 1.6 million tonnes per year.

This increase of 300,000 tonnes will enable Waste Connections to meet the increased demand for disposal capacity from its current customers. All proposed changes will occur within the Site's existing and approved waste footprint and Site boundaries.

The Ridge Landfill has been serving in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent community for 50 years and has an excellent environmental track record. The Ridge Landfill provides disposal capacity for the industrial, commercial and institutional (IC&I) customer base in central and southern Ontario and residential waste from the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Waste Connections is committed to being a responsible partner in Chatham-Kent and working collaboratively with the community.

Environmental Screening Report (ESR) Update An initial Open House was held on July 26, 2023 to explain the ESR process to the public and provide the opportunity to ask any questions.

You are invited to our second Public Open House!

The purpose of the Open House is to get your input on the project and to participate in the development of the ESR.

Time & Date: September 13, 2023 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm Work has been completed to Location: John Legue Building, Talbot Trail Place, 24 identify and evaluate possible John St. West, Blenheim, ON impacts associated with increasing the annual fill rate at the Ridge Landfill. Preliminary results of this evaluation will be available at the second Open House for your review and comment.

The ESR will be submitted to the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) for review.

At that time, the public, Indigenous communities and other interested persons will be informed through a Notice of Completion when and where the ESR can be reviewed.

Consultation Public consultation is a very important aspect of the ESR process. Our second public open house will be held on September 13, 2023 (see text box above). Members of the public, agencies, Indigenous communities and other interested persons are encouraged to actively participate in the planning process by attending consultation events or contacting Waste Connections to provide information, comments or to ask questions.

Consultation events will be published in local newspapers, distributed to those on the project contact list; and posted at www.ridgelandfill.com. Please visit the website under our Contact Us page to be added to the project contact list.

For further information please contact: Cathy Smith Project Manager Waste Connections of Canada T: 519-358-2860 E: catherine.smith@wasteconnections.com All personal information included in a submission – such as name, address, telephone number and property location – is collected, maintained and disclosed by the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change for the purpose of transparency and consultation. The information is collected under the authority of the Environmental Assessment Act or is collected and maintained for the purpose of creating a record that is available to the general public as described in s.37 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Personal information you submit will become part of a public record that is available to the general public unless you request that your personal information remain confidential. For more information, please contact the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change’s Freedom of Information and Privacy Coordinator at 416-327-1434.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 8

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

News

Powering up a new park

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Close to 20 acres of land near St. Clair College is on track to become a diverse recreational space for all of Chatham-Kent.

At its Aug. 14 meeting, municipal council approved a preliminary landscape plan for the so-called “regional park” where residents of all ages can come to play.

Pending further approvals and engagement with user groups, the land, donated by St. Clair College along Bear Line Road, will host a domed tennis facility, 10 pickleball courts, a cricket pitch, an outdoor space designed primarily for rugby, two sport

courts, a trail, playground areas, a parking lot and washroom, and maintenance facilities.

According to a report submitted to council, up to $2 million from the C-K’s Community Benefit Contribution Reserve will be used to develop the park’s first phase. Another $200,000 was allocated in the 2022 budget following a request from the Chatham Tennis Club in 2022 to add to dollars fundraised by the group to build an indoor space for tennis.

Hydro One is also playing a role in the park’s creation as part of an agreement the utility made with the municipality last year.

For the next decade, Hydro One has committed $1

million annually to Chatham-Kent as part of the Community Benefit Contribution to be used for recreational and cultural purposes. Part of these funds could be earmarked for the park’s development Two deputations regarding the park were presented to council at the Aug. 14 meeting.

One came from Mark Chapados, a local tennis instructor who along with his wife Stephanie, has been leading the bid to build an indoor tennis facility, including initiating fundraising efforts for the project.

“Tennis is growing exponentially,” Chapados told council, noting a new tennis dome will benefit play-

ers, particularly young players who are forced to stop when cold weather comes.

Chris Ferren of Chatham-Kent Wildcats Basketball also spoke to the matter, saying there is a “desperate need” for indoor spaces, adding the sport is growing in C-K, with more young teams being added each year.

Several councillors praised municipal staff and volunteers for their efforts.

Chatham. Coun. Michael Bondy, an avid tennis player, said the inexpensive sport is growing, noting the facility will be well-received in Chatham-Kent.

“These guys (the Chapados) have done a lot of

work over the years, like a lot, really single-handedly got this going,” Bondy said.

“Indoor tennis will be a real benefit in our community,” he explained, adding many local players drive to Windsor in the winter to keep up their game.

“It’s a sport that people play from four to 94.”

Mayor Darrin Canniff said the park is “a perfect example of a public-private partnership.

“The community has come together to make this happen,” Canniff said, adding that along with the Hydro One funding “wonderful citizens” have stepped up.

“Mark and Stephanie are a great example of that,”

the mayor said. “They took a dream and made it a reality.”

Canniff noted that the services currently in the works for the park are things Chatham-Kent doesn’t have.

When considering the design, Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew said she hopes youngsters with accessibility issues will be consulted on the playground piece of the development so that “children with mobility issues can have more meaningful play.”

The park is located on Bear Line where Dale Drive ends, west of St. Clair College’s powerline school. As part of the donation, St. Clair College will be included in the name of the park.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, SEPEMBER 7, 2023

PAGE 9

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 10

Children’s choir classes to resume The Chatham Voice

The Bel Canto Choir School will resume in early September for its third year.

The choir school is a children’s choir that is free for children in the community ages 8 to 18.

It is committed to helping young singers develop their natural talents. Choristers explore how making music together can enrich their lives, and learn from experienced musicians who lead interactive rehearsals focusing on musicianship, performance skills, musical knowledge and having fun.

The Bel Canto Choir School

consists of two choirs. The Junior Choir is for children ages 8 to 12 while the Senior Choir is for ages 13 to 18. The program starts with teaching basic music principles to newest choristers that continue the education for the more experienced.

The Bel Canto Choir School leaders are committed to creating a safe and inclusive choral experience that is accessible to all. Leaders are co-directors Christine Baribeau and Devon Hansen, choral coach Andrew Derynck, and manager Erin Stirling.

Further information and the registration form for the 20232024 season can be found at

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

The Arts

Contributed image

School will soon be back in session for the Bel Canto Choir.

standrewschatham.org/bccs.

Registrations can be completed

on the website.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

Music for the Mind delivers again

volleyball tournament, an online Christmas auction, sign painting, fundWhen Music for the raising dinners and their Mind creator Elisha year-round bottle and can Banks switched affilia- drive.

Changing focus after tions, she did not know how well the new fund- raising money for the Foundation for the Charaising effort would go.

A goal of $50,000 had tham-Kent Health Alliher worried she’d let the ance for two years wasn’t people at Family Service an easy move for Banks.

Kent and the KIDS Team She had raised in excess Program, the recipients of $91,000 to help patients for the past year’s efforts, on the mental health floor at the hospital, but had down.

“I was nervous. You set a serious disagreement with how a goal and the funds always re“I was beyond excited were hanmain hopedled, and ful,” she when the time came and I saw we exceedthe flow of said.

However, ed it (the $50,000 goal) information the giving This community is filled to her organization nature of with some of the most from the the people foundation. of Cha- generous people and The relatham-Kent businesses, who are tionship des h o n e always ready to supteriorated t h r o u g h port.” to the point and Mu- - Elisha Banks where the sic for the foundation Mind went well above the target, threatened to sue Banks.

That left Banks seeking raising $57,200.

“I was beyond excited other ways to help people when the time came and with mental health issues.

I saw we exceeded it,” But the void was quickBanks said of the goal. ly filled and now Fami“This community is filled ly Service Kent will use with some of the most half of the funds raised generous people and to provide minimal-fee or businesses, who are al- free counselling for people aged six and older. ways ready to support.”

Music for the Mind host- The KIDS Team Program ed 14 fundraising events, will utilize its share to ranging from their two cover the costs of psybig concerts, to a beach chiatric assessments for

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 11

News

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Contributed image

Elisha Banks, second from left, presents a cheque for $57,200 to Family Service Kent and KIDS Team representatives recently on behalf of Music for the Mind.

children up to the age of 18 whose families can’t afford to cover the costs.

Banks said fees can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000 per assessment. A child could require multiple assessments over their educational career.

As for the next fundraising season, Music for the Mind remains partnered with Family Service Kent and the KIDS Team, and planning is already underway.

“We’re working on bringing a committee together. We’ll work to collectively map out our year,” Banks said. “We’ll see what fundraisers we’re going to do and set a new financial goal, all while raising funds in support of mental health in Chatham-Kent.”

None of it would be possible without the support of the community, she added, thanking donors, sponsors, volunteers and the bands that donated their time for the two concert events.

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 13

2023 Annual

McKINLAY WOODLANDS . . . A LIVING MEMORIAL

Sunday, September 10, 2023

Gathering 1:30pm Service 2:00pm

DEDICATION SERVICE

C.M. WILSON CONSERVATION AREA OF THE LOWER THAMES VALLEY CONSERVATION AUTHORITY This Memorial Tribute is dedicated to those for whom trees have been donated at CM Wilson Conservation Area or Skakel Conservation Area from September 1, 2022 to August 31, 2023.

Please see next week’s paper for the Ridgetown T.R.E.E.S. Memorial Forest name list.

CM WILSON Adkin, Raymond Alain, Jessica Alderton, Lloyd Robert Alexander, Gordon Amorini, Maria Anchor, Frank Andersen, Susan Archer, John Argenti, Aurelia Bruna Atkinson, Joe-Anne Augustowitsch, George Babich, Alberto Ball, Cora Barnwell, Viola Barrie, Sylvia Barry, Wendy Bayley, Kim Beattie, Gordon ‘Ted’ Bechard, Debbie Bechard, Gerard Bechard, Ivan Bechard, Rick Beck, Larry Beckstead, Tom ‘Smoke’ Bellehumeur, Connie Bennett, Murray Blair, Richard Boivin, Ron Bond, Betty Bondy, Barbara Bonner, Bernard

Bossence, Robert Bourdages, Alcidas Bowls, Stacy Braunstein, Irene Breynaert, Joyce Britton, Kirk Brush, Lana Bugera, Dan Burgess, Bruce Burnie, Dan Calyn, Ruth Campbell, Margerie ‘Rose’ Carney, Ingrid Carroll, Gary Cartier, Leo Castein, Albert Cernanec, Stan Christner, Eileen Cibulka, Matthew Clement, Leo Cleveland, Ruth Coe, Ruth Ann Coff, Angela Cook, John Copeland, Jeannie Copley, Bruce Countryman, Bernice Cox, Terry Croden, Mark Crow, Brian Cunningham, Betty Lou Currie, Michael

Cusson, Dianne Daeschle, Maria Dahal, Kausila Dang-Vuu, Trinh Dawson, Brian De Waal, Barbara DeMars, Bill Demars, Clara Deneau, Debbie Desmarais, Donna DeWispelaere, Jerry Dick, David Dickson, Robert Doyle, Marilyn Duckworth, Jeramy Dymond, Allan Ellwood, Willa English (Russell), Betty Lou Fairbairn, Marilyn “Lynn” Fields, Len Fisher, Dorothy Grande Garcia, Jose Angel Gardina, Lena Graham, Nancy Green, Stan Hall, Joyce Elizabeth Hart, Martin Harvey, Michael Heathcote, Bill Heuvelmans, Theo Hewson, Michael Heyink, Henry

Hinz, Patricia “Pat” Hipkins, Keith Hoffman, Norma Holland, Karen Holman, Kay Holmes, Dana Holthof, George Hooge, Niels Horton, Betty Hough, Annie Howes, Wayne Huffman, Mildred Hyatt, Linda Isaacs, Richard Jacques, William John-George, Brenna Johnson, Robert Johnston, Doug Jolley, Rev. Susan Kelly, Robert Wayne Klassen, Ruby Knight, Cendy Knight, Matthew Koehler, Lana Kraemer, Albert Krieger, Kathleen Kuhn, Tom Labadie, Laurie Ann Laevens, Carol Ann Lahey, Ingrid Langlois, Leonard ‘Len’ Lankhof, Hendrikje ‘Henny’

Laprise, Gus Laprise, Paul Laprise, Roger Larente, Linda Larouche, Ray Lather, Gladys Leeson, Ross Legue, Dan Lenover, Laura Letourneau, Verna Levesque, Richard Libert, Darlene Lindsay, Chuck Little, Sandra Little, Theresa Loop, Bob Lubbers, Edith Lucier, Leonard MacKenzie, Don Patrick MacNeil, Bernard Maier, Nicolo Mailloux, Mary Maine, Helen Malott, John J. Malott, Mavis Mandeno, Brian Marchand, Pauline Marentette, François Marentette, Gérard Mariconda, Eddie Mason, Glenn Massender, Cecil

Mast, Bill Maynard, Janet Maynard, Tom McCormick, Mark McDonald, Auwina McDonald, Betty McDonnell, Anne Marie McFadden, Maxine McGill, Ted McGregor, Bob McGuire, Cherie McIntee, Vicky McMichael, Tyler McNear, Margery McVicar, Jim Meko, John Mercer, Susan Lynn Miller, Winnifred ‘Win’ Mitchell, Ralph Mlynek, Jim Moerman, Walter Morin, Lucas Morris, Cleata Murray, Helen Myers, Karen Myers, Romeo Northcott, Irene Nussey, Jill Olbey, John Orval Oldershaw, Jim Olexa, Steve O’Neill, Jessie

Papenborg, Luke Papps, Brian Parent, Joseph Parker, Julie Parry Scarfone, Ann Patel, Sulochna Paxton, Ron Peel, Donna Peel, Thomas Pelletier, Alice Pelletier, Rowan Maxwell Scott Pettipiece, Allan Pink, Stephen Poole, Betty Poole, Kenneth John Postma, Sadie Pretty, Danny Proctor, Evelyne Provost, Mary Louise Reaume, Bill Reed, Guy Richie, Patrick Ritchie, Muriel Robert, Natalie Robinson, Steven Roe, Margery Rolls-Simons, Emmajean Ross, Ewen Rossini, Bec Roszell, Marc Rota, Linda Russell, Edith

Ryken, Betty Sawdon, Marilyn Scaman, Lori Schaffer, Sarah Schlosser, Karen Scott, Dorothy Gray (Edgar) Sebben, Joy Sedgman, Dorothy Sedlacek, Michael Seed, Tiffany Sharratt, Larry Sheppy, Eileen Sillett, Mildred Sinclair (McFadden), Mary Elizabeth Smale, Edna Smith, Bill Smith, Cathy Snobelen, Perry Sparks, Larry Spence, John Kenneth Spicer, David Spicer, Leona Squires, June Steele, Dennis Steele, Lynn Stephenson, Kevin Edward Stone, Diane Stuart, Mary Louise Sutherland, Eric Sutherland, Gordon Sutherland, Mary Lou

Taylor, Douglas Tetrault, Orville Tetrault, Ruth Thain, Alister Thomson, Edward Townsend, Mark Travis, Lloyd Truong, Kheo Twigg, Margaret Ulch, Christopher Van Boven, Emily Van Dusen, Ralph Van Praet, Feby Vanderberg, Jerry Vannieuwenhuyze, Polly Veldboom, Joanne Vince, Patricia Visser, Nicholas Henry Vlasschaert, Frank Vreugdenhil, Cor Vriends, Annette Waite-Bastien, Brittany Wanamaker, Roy Wardlaw, Jean Watson, Clara Watson, Dennis Weir, Gary

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

PAGE 15

News

Gardener ‘passionate’ about ‘obsession’

By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative The Ridgetown Independent

With his 2023 summer garden tour season over, a Ridgetown man is already turning his attention to 2024.

Unless, of course, he squeezes in an early fall tour.

Rick Gray, aka The Native Plant Gardener, recently hosted the Leamington Horticultural Society in his beautiful Lisgar Street backyard garden that features all native and near-native plants.

“I’m building a mini wetland at the back to return it to a bog garden and need to dig a trench to the house,” Gray said.

“The lawn is going to be torn up, so I won’t be able to do any tours,” said Gray. “If I get this done by the end of the month, maybe I can do some in the fall if the lawn is back in shape.”

The former University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus teacher has hosted several tours this year, including the Ridgetown Horticultural Society and ReLeaf Chatham-Kent, as his backyard transformation to 100-per-cent native and near-native plants has attracted attention not only locally but across Canada and North America, thanks to his following on his website and Facebook page.

“It became a passion, then an obsession, and now it’s a full-blown addiction,” he said, with a laugh, about his devotion to his native gardening.

The retired teacher purchased his Lisgar St. home in 2004 when he came to town as a GIS tech instructor for the Ridgetown Campus’ new environmental program. He was looking for a home and took one look at the expansive backyard behind the Lisgar Street bunga-

Photo courtesy The Ridgetown Independent News

Rick Gray, also known as the “Native Plant Gardener,” hopes to release a book next year on how to grow and care for native plants.

low, and he was sold.

Looking at his stunning garden today, you would never know that his halfacre backyard was just grass with three maple trees when he moved in.

He built flower beds and filled them with familiar plants, such as hostas, roses, petunias and other nice-looking staples.

“I’ve been gardening since I was a kid. I lived on a farm and always helped with the vegetable garden,” stated Gray.

“Until I was 30, I thought if it wasn’t edible, it wasn’t worth growing.”

Gray said he knew little about native plants until he moved here.

“It wasn’t until I bought a packet of wildflower seeds and things that came up, like California poppies, and I thought, ‘these aren’t from around here,’ “Gray said.

“That’s when I started doing my homework and found out which plants are actually native here.

The rule of thumb, if it was here before the Europeans arrived, we consider it native.”

Gray said many wildflowers found in ditches and fields are actually “garden escapes” brought to North America as a food or medical source by settlers from their gardens

in Europe.

“Some are fairly benign, they really don’t cause a lot of problems, but others become invasive species, aggressive plants that don’t let our native plants take hold,” he said.

Gray said he also has near-native plants, which are technically not found in Chatham-Kent but may have been found in other parts of southern Ontario, Michigan and Ohio.

“At last count, I have about 330 species, all either native or near-native,” he said. “I’ve removed all the non-native species from back here.”

Gray said native plants are essential to the environment, namely to the bird, butterfly and moth populations – and a quick glance to see the many varieties of species attest they are thriving in his backyard.

“Native plants are what our birds ultimately rely on, and they are essential for all of our bugs, caterpillars in particular, so our butterflies and moths feed on them.”

Bees and other pollinators also rely on native plants.

“We’re losing bird species, we’re losing butterflies, we’re losing our

pollinators,” Gray said.

“And that’s because a lot of non-native plants don’t provide the same nutrients. They’ve evolved with our native species.”

Gray’s expertise has led him to create a website and Facebook page titled

“The Native Plant Gardener,” where he posts a Plant of the Month feature as well as other native plant-related articles and features from other sources, photos, book reviews and even a monthly crossword puzzle.

MUNICIPALITY OF CHATHAM-KENT HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DAYS

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent in conjunction with Waste Connections of Canada Ridge Landfill will be holding eight Household Hazardous Waste Days between April and November in 2023. The events will be held: Location: Veolia Environmental Services 141 Prosperity Way, near Chatham Day: Saturday, September 9, 2023 Tuesday, October 10, 2023 Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Time: 8:00am - 1:00pm 8:00am - 1:00pm 8:00am - 1:00pm

For more information please visit www.chatham-kent.ca, your nearest Municipal Centre or call 311 or 519-360-1998.

This event is provided by Waste Connections of Canada’s Ridge Landfill and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 16

Sunflower project earns accolades The Chatham Voice

A campaign to grow butter-coloured sunflowers to support Ukraine has led to a prestigious award for the Rotary Club of Chatham Sunrise.

The Sunflower Seed Project, led by Paul Roy, has garnered a Gold Hero Award from Shelter Box Canada for 2022-23.

According to a media release, the initiative raised $40,000 for Ukraine Relief and helped forge many community partnerships.

The achievement far exceeded the club’s original goal of raising $10,000 through the sale of sunflower seeds, helped in large part by donations from local businesses and individuals.

Shelter Box and Rotary International continue to work together to ensure no one is left without shelter after a disaster.

The $40,000 raised locally went to displaced families in the Eastern region of Ukraine.

The agency was able to purchase winterized shelter, repair kits, winter supplies, stoves, firewood and money for transportation to safety in other countries.

The Sunrise club has also maintained a park honouring Ukraine at the corner of Grand Avenue and Victoria Avenue thanks to parkland donated for use by Community Living.

Flags, benches and bright sunflowers continue to highlight support for Ukraine, reminding the public the war and devasta-

When social media blocks your access to the news, turn to your local newspaper.

tion in the country is far from over.

Rotary Sunrise meets Tuesday mornings from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. with meetings resuming Sept.

12. Anyone interested in joining can contact chathamsunriserotaryclub@gmail.com.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

News

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

The folks who crunch the numbers for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent’s budget were recently awarded the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award by the Government Finance Officers Association. The award recognizes the C-K’s Budget & Performance Services division for its commitment to upholding the highest standards of governmental budgeting.

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

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PAGE 18

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

News

86th C-K Plowing Match ruled a success

By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative The Ridgetown Independent

The number of participants may have been down, but it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the competitors and spectators at the 86th annual Chatham-Kent Plowman’s Association Plowing Match.

An estimated crowd of 250 cheered on the participants as they attempted to lay down the perfect furrow at the Stacie and Jim DeBrouwer family farm on Ed’s Line on Aug. 12.

It was the second summer in a row the DeBrouwers have hosted the plowing match.

The 20 competitors vied for the top spot in 12 tractor and horse classes and other special divisions, although many classes had single participants.

Stephanie Richardson, CKPA secretary and plowing match organizer, said the event usually draws 35-40 competitors from across southwestern Ontario – as far east as Toronto and north to Owen Sound.

“Perth County moved their plowing match to the same day,” Richardson said.

Perth’s plowing match in 2022 event was held on Aug. 27 in Listowel before changing their date this summer.

“I don’t know if that’s

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why we lost some regulars; we usually draw a lot of guys from the Strathroy area, and they’re right in the middle of the two,” Richardson said. “We expected more plowmen, but we’re glad we had the ones we did.”

The plowmen – and the Queen and Princess of the Furrow – put on a good show for the appreciative audience.

Rebekah Ball, Dresden’s reigning Queen of the Furrow, showed off her plowing skills as the lone competitor in the Class 1 women’s open division.

Marissa McGee was named Princess of the Furrow, succeeding Meg Avery, who reigned for 2022-23. Ball, who has a two-year reign as Queen of the Furrow, and McGee will represent the CKPA at plowing matches around the region – including the 2023 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo in Dufferin County Sept. 19-23 – and events around Cha-

Photo courtesy The Ridgetown Independent News

Pictured above are Meg Avery (2022-2023 Chatham-Kent Princess of the Furrow), Marissa McGee (2023-2024 Chatham-Kent Princess of the Furrow), and Rebekah Ball (2022-2024 Chatham-Kent Queen of the Furrow).

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

Entegrus spots billing error The Chatham Voice

A long-term overbilling error by Entegrus has led to the utility submitting an assurance of voluntary compliance (AVC) to the Ontario Energy Board.

To compensate for the mistake, the power company will contribute $16,658 to the Low-Income Assistance Program to help customers within its service area with the amount being equal to four years of overcharges.

The overbilling was equivalent to around 35 cents per residential customer.

According to a media release from the OEB, Entegrus officials reported the issue to the provincial agency in July 2023 after seeing that other distributors had provided AVCs to the OEB in respect of a similar proration error.

Specifically, according to the release, a portion of bills issued by Entegrus had reflected an incorrect proration of OEB-approved fixed monthly charges.

Entegrus will also pay an administrative monetary penalty of $10,000. Steps were taken to correct the billing error Aug. 24.

PAGE 19

News

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2018 Nissan 370Z Touring Roadster

2021 Nissan NV200 Cargo Van

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$43,466 • 24,963km

$38,906 • 26,039km

$44,521 • 73,222km

2018 Nissan LEAF SL 4dr

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$34,176 • 48,050km

CHATHAM NISSAN Tax & License Fee Extra

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Craig Bullen

General Manager

Frank Bezaire Sales & Leasing

Jeff Sheeler

Sales & Leasing

Jennifer Rankin Sales & Leasing

Amy Frampton Financial Services

Mon-Fri 7:30am-6:00pm Sat 9:00am-3:00pm Sun Closed

Desjardins Insurance refers to Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company, underwriter of automobile and property insurance or Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company, underwriter of life

ning the word Desjardins, as well related logosproducts. are trademarks of the Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec, used under licence. insurance andasliving benefits 1921155

$28,841 • 39,357km

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2020 Chrysler Pacifica Touring -L

$45,616 • 25,113km

We’re celebrating 40 years of service this month, and we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone we’ve had the pleasure of serving over the years.

Looking forward to many more years of supporting you and protecting the things you hold dear.

$54,026 • 12,139km

Desjardins®, Desjardins Insurance®, all trademarks containing the word Desjardins, as well as related logos are trademarks of the Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec, used under licence.

Desjardins Insurance refers to Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company, underwriter of automobile and property insurance or Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company, underwriter of life insurance and living benefits products.

Desjardins®, Desjardins Insurance®, all trademarks containing the word Desjardins, as well as related logos are trademarks of the Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec, used under licence.

www.chathamnissan.com

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 20

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

Business

Performance 360 under new ownership The Chatham Voice

The iron is once again pumping at Performance 360 Health and Fitness.

Young entrepreneur Warren Potter has taken over the facility, which had gone into bankruptcy in the wake of the pandemic.

Potter is a former competitive swimmer from Petrolia who gained experience in health club management in London after earning his Honours Bachelor of Commerce there. He is an avid weightlifter and health enthusiast who is at the club full time as owner/ operator, working out regularly alongside the club members.

In June of this year, he formed a new corporation to purchase the assets of Performance 360 and ensure that the popular health facility would continue to operate.

Although its doors had remained open during the bankruptcy, its future was uncertain.

“I am really excited to work with the existing staff, especially the longtime manager Jenn Daoust and the professional trainers who

stayed and kept the club alive with their energy,” Potter said in a media release. “The best part of all is that most of the members maintained their affiliation, and their loyalty is what drives this business.”

Performance Health and Fitness was opened on Queen Street in Chatham back in 1993. Over the years it grew from a 4,000 sq.-ft. facility to its present size of 16,000 sq.-ft. at 770 Richmond St. The “360” was added to the name several years ago to represent the “full circle of health” that continues to be their goal.

Remembering the queen

Mrs. Bell’s Tea Room will be hosting a special tea party to honour the one-year anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s death.

When Queen Elizabeth II died on Sept. 8, 2022, it marked the end of an era as she was the longest reigning British monarch.

Contributed image

New owner Warren Potter is seen here at Performance 360.

The tea party will be held on Sept. 9 with three seatings: 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Folks can call 226 6270248 to reserve a table or book online at www.mrsbellstearoom.com The cost for Afternoon Tea is $29.99 and includes tea sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and

jam, desserts and of course, endless tea.

Everyone is encouraged to bring a memento of the queen to share.

SheLeads to donate $500

The inaugural SheLeads event that took place earlier this summer in Chatham is giving back.

The event saw 200 women attend for “a day of inspira-

tion, education and empowerment,” said, Dr. Erin TeWinkel, ND co – founder of the event.

The event was paywhat-you-can and was supported by several local businesses as sponsors.

The JoLynn Deprez Athletic Fund which is hosted by the Chatham Kent Community Foundation will be the recipient of

$500 in proceeds from the event. The fund supports South Kent by empowering youth through community sports.

“We had the most marvelous day with the women of C-K, and the cherry on top is being in a position to make a donation to Jo’s fund,” said TeWinkel in a media release.

Continued on page 21

A Warm, Accessible Space to Say Good-Bye

Thank you for voting us Best of Chatham-Kent for the 8th year

Funerals Celebrations Immediate Cremations

Trust the Professionals.

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

www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

CLAC helps to destress local youth Continued from page 20

CLAC Local 303 steward and Local Board member Leigh-Ann Ulch joined CLAC representative Mary Ellen Alward to deliver more than 130 fidget toys and cash donations to the Chatham-Kent Youth Wellness Hub recently.

The Local 303 Board made the decision to support youth mental health initiatives this year as many members and their families are impacted by mental health issues.

“Our local youth have been through tremendous stress in the past few years,” Alward said in a

PAGE 21

Business/News

media release. “We wanted to show our support to the initiatives and services that the Youth Wellness Hub offers.”

New deal at St. Andrew’s

The employees of St. Andrew’s Residence have ratified a new three-year collective agreement providing improvements to shift and weekend premiums, bereavement benefits, and wages.

The 37 employees are represented by Southwestern Ontario Health Care and Service Workers Union, CLAC Local 303.

The union has represent-

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

CLAC Local 303 steward and Local Board member Leigh-Ann Ulch joined CLAC representative Mary Ellen Alward to deliver more than 130 fidget toys and cash donations to the Chatham-Kent Youth Wellness Hub recently.

ed the employees since 2019.

The new contract includes wage increases of 10 per cent over the course of the term.

“We are pleased with the enhancements we were able to secure during this round of bargaining,” Ryan Griffioen, CLAC representative, said in a

media release.

• Business Voice is a bi-monthly column in The Chatham Voice that highlights some of the

achievements made and efforts underway in Chatham-Kent’s business community. Send your information to bruce@chathamvoice.com.

July of this year and report to council in February 2024 about the first six months of the Chatham initiative.

Coun. Carmen McGregor also indicated she is bringing forward a motion about fighting crime.

McGregor is asking CKPS

to report on its findings of an already completed Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design audit analysis of Wallaceburg.

The audit shows how environmental design choices can impact actual instances of crime, as

well as reduce the fear of

crime.

’Burg crime concerns up for discussion

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Both of Wallaceburg’s municipal councillors are looking to spark change when it comes to fighting crime in their community.

At a recent council meeting, Coun. Aaron Hall gave notice he will

be bringing forward a motion at the Sept. 11 meeting asking the Chatham-Kent Police Service to begin the process to expand its CCTV monitoring program to Wallaceburg.

Hall is asking police to complete an analysis of the pilot project that kicked off in Chatham in

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

Community Events

Thursday, September 7, 2023: • The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm.

Senior Euchre at 1:00pm. The Ladies Auxiliary monthly bingo: sale of cards starts at 6:00pm, bingo at 7:00. Everyone is welcome.

Friday, September 8, 2023: • Adult Colouring at the CKPL Chatham Branch Community Living Café. 2:00pm until 4:00pm.

Come and connect with people while colouring away the stress of the day. No registration required, come and go as you please.

• Chatham-Kent Economic Development Services free breakfast and a motivational talk with Mr. Peter Kenyon about stimulating our local economy and community at the John D. Bradley Centre.

Breakfast served at 8am, followed by the talk and Q/A, wrapping up at 10am. Peter Kenyon, Director, Bank of I.D.E.A.S, Australia, is a social capitalist and community enthusiast seeking to create healthy, caring, inclusive, sustainable and enterprising communities and local economies. To register for this free event, please visit Growing Communities - Keeping the Tills Ringing and the Community Swinging Tickets, Fri, 8 Sep 2023 at 8:00 AM | Eventbrite • The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch11:00am–1:30pm.

Supper will be served from 4:00–6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are Pork Loin or Fish & Chips, $13.00. Take out is also available by calling 519351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Fun Darts start at 7:00 p.m. Everyone Welcome.

• Kent Branch Ontario Genealogy Society (Family History) meeting at 7:00pm ONLINE. Topic: Where to Find Ontario Land Records on the Family Search Website. Free and open to anyone to join us online.

Simply register on our website at www.kent.ogs.on.ca • Live Music and Cash Bar at Chatham Retirement Resort. Stuart Wicks will perform at 2pm. Friends and family welcome!

• Merlickin pork chops, scalloped potatoes or fries, apple sauce &

vegetable at the Merlin Legion. $15.50. Call 519-689-4884 to order your food!!

in program. Great opportunity to learn new strategies by playing with different players. All ages and all skill levels are welcome.

Saturday, September 9, 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.

• CK Animal Rescue Strut Your Mutt Fundraiser Walk. 9am-2pm.

For just $10, you can be part of this amazing event. Raise $200 or more, and not only will you be walking for free, but you’ll also snag an amazing CK Animal Rescue shirt! Head to our website https:// ckanimalrescue.com/strutyourmutt/ for more information.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. There will be a meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30 pm. Kitchen open for lunch 3:00pm-5:30pm. Entertainment

by Unity Station from 4:30-9:30.

Come check out our menu. Everyone Welcome.

• The Ridgetown & District Horticultural Society - Horticultural Flower Show. 12:00pm-3:00pm at the Church of the Advent Parish Hall, 16 Church Street, Ridgetown.

For more info email: ridgetownhortsociety@outlook.com.

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

• Dawn Valley United Church 134th Anniversary musical celebration featuring the Torchmen Quartet at 4 p.m. Light supper to follow. Free will offering. Located at the corner of Lambton Line and 507 Dawn Valley Road, Tupperville.

Come join us for melodies, memories and fellowship.

• Chatham Kent Asian Cultural Association Summer Picnic 2023 “Potluck”. Join us with family to share your favourite food or dessert. 3:00pm-8:00pm at Kingston Park, Chatham.

Tuesday, September 12, 2023: • Chess Club at Chatham Branch of CKPL. 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm. Drop

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

Fun Stuff

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

Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Euchre at 1:00pm.

Shuffleboard at 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

• Disappearing Heritage: A Barn Lecture by Darrell Randell at 7pm at the Sombra Museum. $10 admission. 3476 St. Clair Pkwy, Sombra. 519-892-3982.

Wednesday, September 13, 2023: • The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm.

Our daily special is meat loaf dinner. Fun Darts at 7:00pm.

Everyone is welcome.

Thursday, September 14, 2023: • Retired Workers Chapter Meeting are the perfect opportunity to enjoy coffee and baked goods and visit with friends and former fellow workers. Keep up to date with the community, pensions, benefits and info provided from informed leadership and guest speakers.

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

• Diabetes, Healthy Feet & You, 1:30pm-4:00pm. Join us and learn how to take control of your health! . All workshop materials are provided free of charge. Free registration by using link: https:// dhfy_sept14.eventbrite.ca.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Second sight 4. Standard electrode potential 7. Type of gibbon 8. John Joseph __: American industrialist 10. Manning and Whitney are two 12. Abrupt 13. Baroque musical instrument 14. Post-burning residue 16. When you hope to arrive 17. Sign up (Brit. Eng.) 19. Sun up in New York 20. Employee stock ownership plan 21. Where people live

25. Method to record an electrogram 26. Angry 27. No longer living 29. Simple 30. Swiss river 31. Portion of a play 32. It’s under the tree 39. Wood sorrels 41. No (Scottish) 42. Dialect of English 43. Former Steelers’ QB 44. Popular beer 45. It can make you sick 46. Tropical tree and fruit 48. Company officer 49. Contact lens term 50. Your consciousness of your own identity

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

Senior Euchre at 1:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

• Live Music and Cash Bar at Chatham Retirement Resort. Buck & the Boys will perform at 2pm.

Friends and family welcome! Call today for more information or to RSVP 519-351-7777 ext. 526.

PUZZLE ANSWERS FOUND ON PAGE 23

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

51. “Ghetto Superstar” singer 52. Piece of turf CLUES DOWN 1. Number of players on each side in a football game 2. Containing salt 3. Reasoning or knowl edge: a __ 4. Car mechanics group 5. Leave a place 6. Southern Colombian capital 8. Old English letter 9. Tide 11. Walk heavily 14. Chemical compound (abbr.)

15. Artificial openings 18. Luteinizing hormone 19. Unit of energy 20. Circular movement of water 22. A way of holding 23. Popular book of words (abbr.)

24. States’ group 27. Dashes 28. Body part 29. Electronic countermeasures 31. Consumed 32. Small bird 33. Unhappy 34. Football’s big game (abbr.)

35. Valued object offered in good faith 36. Wild goats 37. Precede in place 38. Small edible fish 39. Notice of death 40. Body cavity of a metazoan 44. Partner to cheese 47. Not around

Come for a tour and receive a

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

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

Classifieds Registration

Garage Sale

YOUTH BOWLING CANADA

Garage Sale: Something for everyone. kid’s clothes and toys, furniture and more. 6960 Rivard Line, Grande Pointe. September 16 & 17, 8am - ?.

In Memoriam

TOM WADDICK

Bowling Starts This Weekend!

September 1st, 2020

One life lived, Many lives touched.

For Sale Friday, September 8 6:15am Bantams & Juniors

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Wanted

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Tires: 205/55 R16 Hyundai Winter Edge. Home: 519354-1160.

Saturday, September 9 9:00am - Smurfs & PeeWees 11:00am - Bantams Sunday, September 10 6:15pm - Juniors & Seniors

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Wanted “Professional Driver” for 1 way trip to Windsor, from Chatham area on Saturday, September 16th, 2023. State your vehicle, make & year and your rate of pay (gas & time involved). Reply with first name “only” plus telelphone #, so I can reach you & best time to contact you.

Write to: PO Box 534, Stn Main, #120 Wellington St, Chatham, Ontario N7M 5K6

Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools.

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This Weeks Puzzle answers.

OBITUARIES

Marion Bruinsma 92, Thursday, August 24, 2023 Kendrick Funeral Home

W. Glen Powers 95, Thursday, August 24, 2023 Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Gary Johnson 84, Friday, August 25, 2023 Kendrick Funeral Home

James Steward 73, Tuesday, August 29, 2023 Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Aganetha Froese 84, Friday, August 25, 2023 Kendrick Funeral Home

Wilhelmine Knox Tuesday, August 29, 2023 Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Justina Wiebe 75, Tuesday, August 29, 2023 Kendrick Funeral Home

Kaye Butler 88, Tuesday, August 29, 2023 Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Wilma Lammers 70, Friday, August 25, 2023 Kendrick Funeral Home James Arthur Titus 75, Thursday, August 24, 2023 Nicholls Funeral Home Charles “Charlie” Murray Bechard 81, Friday, August 25, 2023 Nicholls Funeral Home Sarah Isabella Robinson 92, Monday, August 28, 2023 Nicholls Funeral Home

FREE ESTIMATES Aaron 519-360-6106 Karen 519-359-1782

Asphalt

ROBERT OUELLETTE ASPHALT SEALING INC.

We carry premium • Hot Asphalt oil based sealer!

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SWEEPER SERVICE • 24 inch 519-354-9157 Milling Machine

Irene Wemp 83, Sunday, August 27, 2023 McKinlay Funeral Home Joseph “Larry” Atkinson 71, Sunday, August 27, 2023 McKinlay Funeral Home Stan Cernanec Friday, August 25, 2023 McKinlay Funeral Home Kirk Britton 65, Saturday, August 26, 2023 McKinlay Funeral Home

Nicholas Joseph Johnston 67, Tuesday, August 29, 2023 Nicholls Funeral Home

Cecil Massender 91, Sunday, August 27, 2023 McKinlay Funeral Home

Gretchen Stonefish Friday, August 25, 2023 Life Transitions

Vida Miller 104, Thursday, August 31, 2023 McKinlay Funeral Home

Violet Carey (Tiedeman) 77, Monday, August 28, 2023 Life Transitions

See full obituaries at chathamvoice.com/obituaries

Jerome Martin 72, Tuesday, August 29 2023 Life Transitions

WE ALSO ARRANGE UNSECURED LINES OF CREDIT/LOANS

Whether you are looking to purchase a home, refinance your mortgage, or consolidate debt, it’s important that you are making an educated decision and receiving professional unbiased advice.

PAGE 23

Blaine List 66, Thursday, August 24, 2023 Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Generations of Families Continue To Place Their Trust With Us

Funerals and Cremations

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4 Victoria Ave, Chatham (519) 352-2390 Serving Kingsville, Wheatley & Chatham kendrickfuneralhome.com

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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PAGE 24

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023

INTERNET + TV + PHONE