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A local geologist who sat on an expert panel advising the province on its recent all-hazard water well study in North Kent says the parameters of the investigation fell short.

According to Dr. Keith Benn, the Ministry of Health probe failed to examine the ultra-fine sediment of the 61 wells sampled in the study.

In fact, no sediment samples were taken at all.

“If there was somewhere where somebody seriously dropped the ball in the whole investigation, this is where it was dropped,” Benn said.

The independent consultant’s comments came at a public meeting.

Continued on page 2

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 2

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022

News

‘Somebody seriously dropped the ball’

Continued from page 1

Held at the Grace Christian Church Hall in the former Dover Township Nov. 20, the meeting was a review of the all-hazard study released earlier this year.

Around 40 people gathered to hear Benn’s analysis and to discuss next steps in North Kent’s ongoing water well saga.

Benn told the group that because the sediment was not examined, it remains unknown if carcinogenic heavy metals that exist are bio-accessible – harmful – to humans who con-

sume the water.

“The smaller the particle the more there is potential for toxicity,” he explained.

Benn said the expert panel learned there was no collection of sediment after the fact. The panel also had no input on what wells were studied which only included wells in the vicinity of the North Kent 1 wind project.

The province contracted Englobe to carry out the investigation, which concluded “there were no wide-spread health risks”

identified even though there was a 300-per-cent increase in turbidity from baseline testing taken in 2017. But it also recommended further study should be done.

The North Kent 1 wind farm consists of 34 wind turbines in an agricultural area that is underlain by an interface aquifer providing water in domestic wells. The aquifer is composed primarily of sands and gravels, as well as glacial till derived from the underlying bedrock geological formation known as Kettle Point black shale.

Area residents have long complained their water was negatively impacted following the construction and operation of the

wind farm.

Dover area wells were excluded from the all-hazard study, even though there are many wells with severe turbidity problems.

The first five turbines were built around Dover Centre in 2007, followed by construction of the East St. Clair Wind Farm in the former Dover Township in 2012-2013.

Meeting organizer Christine Burke, who lives in Dover with a well that produces black water, denounced all levels of government, noting Premier Doug Ford in 2018 had promised a health hazard study of the wells.

Photocopies of the letter from Ford, dated May

5, 2018, committing to a health-hazard study, were distributed at the meeting.

Burke said she feels abandoned by all levels of government and said that people are still drinking water that could be toxic.

“I feel for people who may be drinking water that is harmful to them,” Burke said.

However, Burke and her husband Terry decided to take further action. They had their well water tested by an accredited lab in Michigan that included the health hazard parameters.

When the sediment was analyzed, it showed that potentially toxic metals, including antimony, arsenic, barium, cadmium, lead and nickel were present in what Benn calls “rather high” concentrations, noting further sampling of the well water and sediment is warranted to determine if these metals are bio accessible.

The Burkes, along with

Benn, encourage affected residents to get their wells tested so they can present the collective results to the government.

Burke said she would help other property owners pay for the testing, which costs around $600 US, by crowdfunding through Go Fund Me or Give Send Go. “If you know anybody who wants to do this, we can work together,” Burke said. “We can get this done.”

Benn said there is strength in numbers, adding the tests will provide proof.

“Somebody’s going to have to take responsibility,” Benn stated. “We’re getting to the point where it’s becoming more and more difficult for government to shrug their shoulders and turn away.”

Benn is hopeful he can speak with municipal government on the issue, noting he hopes the municipality will reach out to the province for additional help.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022

PAGE 3

News

It’s a giving season in C-K

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Even after three iterations of The Gift, organizer Brent Wilken continues to be amazed at the giving nature of the people of Chatham-Kent.

“It was amazing. I was just blown away by the community,” he said of the Nov. 19 event where volunteers went down streets across the municipality, gathering donations of toys and food left on front porches by local residents.

“This was a whole new level of working together,” Wilken added.

He estimated upwards of 2,000 volunteers took part in the gathering of items.

There were depots set up in communities across the municipality, making quantifying exactly what

was donated difficult, Wilken said, The laid back approach also made it hard to pinpoint how many volunteers were part of the day.

“At least half of the volunteers didn’t sign up.

For example in Erieau, two volunteers signed up and they had 40 turn out.”

Volunteers come from all walks of life, Wilken said, including those in need.

“We had a homeless individual who volunteered on Saturday. She worked her butt off,” he said.

Wilken said of the goods donated, it appears there is a decent blend of needed items.

“It was a good mix. We were short on items for teens, but otherwise it was great,” he said. “It seems like a healthy mix between toys, food and

hygiene stuff, good for a complete Christmas.”

There are gaps, however, but the sharing nature of The Gift helps minimize them.

“It’s hard to quantify with so many drop locations, and many communities self manage.

Blenheim managers Blenheim, for example,” he said. “We try to communicate and work together as much as possible. If one area is short on something and another has a surplus, there is sharing.

We just communicate the need and it ends up happening.”

Being on hand during the drop offs was humbling, Wilken said, “There were hundreds of cars with trunks jammed full. Each bag – someone clearly thought of an individual,” he said. “One might be for a 90-year-old

Contributed image

The Gift volunteer Jamar Bonnell is all smiles as he and other volunteers were inundated with donations during the annual gathering effort of the organization Nov. 19. Behind him are some of the items collected by volunteers and donated by residents of Chatham.

woman, for example.”

The Gift set up shop inside the former Sears building. Wilken said the allotted floor space went from empty to full in about two hours, as upwards of 100 volunteers helped empty the arriving vehicles.

In the coming days, the process shifts from gathering to delivering.

Wilken said the focus is on identifying who can benefit and helping them access needed items.

“Who do you know that is in need that is not going to get help otherwise?

You can come here and get it for them, or you can get them here and they can choose,” he said. “It’s all about getting the job done.”

Wilken discounts critics who say The Gift is open to abuse.

Continued on page 4

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 4

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022

News

Council approves new ball team fessional team that will call Chatham’s Fergie Jenkins Field home.

The team is starting off strong with baseball legend Jenkins agreeing to act as the club’s honorary president.

Council’s vote was unanimous but came after a lengthy discussion mainly involving base-

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has agreed to play ball with a new Intercounty Baseball League team.

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ball outreach possibilities and how increased costs will be covered.

Annual operating costs for the team are in the neighbourhood of around $82,000 minus $9,000 for revenues to be paid by the team. The team will pay $9,000 per year for the duration of the agreement and will charge admission for games.

The venture will see capital costs of $195,500, including the purchase of equipment that needs to be installed prior to the 2024 season. That includes new bleachers at a cost of $120,000.

The team will utilize the facilities at Memorial Arena as part of the deal.

The initial capital funding will come from the Hydro One Community Benefit Contribution Reserve; however, the agreement means annual funding from the municipality is pre-approved for the duration of the contract.

C-K Parks, Recreation and Cemeteries director Rob Pollock told council the new team will generate more upkeep for all of Chatham’s baseball facilities.

“This is increasing our capacity so much that we have to increase our equipment,” Pollock said, noting a new seasonal full-time employee will be hired to handle the

grooming and maintenance of Fergie Jenkins Park. Other baseball diamonds will also require increased maintenance as teams that had previously used Fergie Jenkins Field will need to relocate when the IBL team is playing or practising.

In February 2020, team owner Dom Dinelle approached Chatham-Kent administration about establishing an IBL franchise in the municipality.

However, the idea was put on the back burner due to COVID-19, but resurfaced earlier this year.

Established in 1919, the current league operates under similar rules as Major League Baseball and

has eight teams. Many professional players, including Chatham’s own Fergie Jenkins, played in the league before going on to the majors.

Mayor Darrin Canniff said the team’s owner is committed to outreach across the municipality, whether it be going into schools, or other programs.

The new team will play 40-plus games during the regular season with 20 taking place in Chatham.

The move has been endorsed by Chatham Minor Baseball Association.

A deputation from president Jason Chickowski supporting the team was read out at the meeting.

Team effort leads to success of The Gift

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together,” he said, adding each person comes in and has, in essence, a personal shopper with them.

“Does abuse still happen? I guess it’s possible, but each person gets that individual attention.”

Wilken said he’s seen people search out the perfect gift for their child, sometimes perusing items for up to two hours to select items.

“It’s for a loved one. They’ll spend a ton of time doing it. You just know

when they leave here, the item is likely to be cherished,” he said.

At the end of the day, Wilken said The Gift is an extension of what C-K is all about.

“I think we are all realizing that it’s pretty amazing what Chatham-Kent residents can accomplish. And that is pretty darned wicked,” he said with a laugh. “We are so blessed to live in such an amazing community.”

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 5

News

$100-M lawsuit over Wheatley

Six plaintiffs sue municipality, HSE Integrated over explosion, gas leaks The Chatham Voice

A $100-million class action lawsuit has been filed against the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and HSE Integrated Ltd. relating to the Wheatley explosion that occurred Aug. 26, 2021.

Filed in the Superior Court of Justice in Chatham on Nov. 18, the action claims the blast was “caused by the negligence” of the named defendants.

Windsor law firm StrosTwo buildings were berg Sasso Sutts filed heavily damaged in the the suit on behalf of six 2021 blast on Erie Street Wheatley plaintiffs. A and 20 people were inbreakdown jured, acof the dam- “We received it and it cording to ages sought will now go before the previously in the 29published page suit courts.” reports. include $60 - Mayor Darrin Canniff A gas demillion for t e c t i o n general damages, $20 alarm had gone off at million for special dam- 4:30 p.m. the day of the ages; $10 million in ag- explosion, and first regravated damages and sponders were in the $10 million in punitive process of extending the damages. evacuation area when the

blast rocked the town at around 6 p.m.

A state of emergency had been declared by Mayor Darrin Canniff in June 2021, after hydrogen sulfide gas was detected in Wheatley’s downtown. Some homes and businesses were then evacuated.

In September 2021, Premier Doug Ford and then Natural Resources Minister Greg Rickford visited the blast area and met with municipal officials.

In a joint statement to media, the pair stated the province had the backs of the families and businesses affected in the incident.

An intensive investigation was launched after the explosion. That probe discovered three wells in the vicinity of the blast.

Complex mitigation work began to plug the wells in order to prevent further disaster.

The work was completed earlier this year, how-

ever, an evacuation zone remains in place with some families and businesses still unable to access their properties.

The municipality was served with the suit Nov. 22.

“We received it and it will now go before the courts,” Mayor Canniff stated.

None of the allegations put forward in the suit have been proven or tested in court.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 6

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022

Opinion

More must be done “Somebody seriously dropped the ball.”

When a member of the expert panel that advised the Ford government on its recent all-hazard water well study in North Kent makes that statement, something is certainly amiss.

Dr. Keith Benn, a local geologist who was a member of the panel, spoke at a Nov. 20 gathering in North Kent to review the all-hazard study. He’s also written letters to the editor to this newspaper voicing concerns that more investigation is warranted in the well water quality in North Kent, and the potential impact the construction and operation of wind turbines in the area has had on the local aquifer that feeds those well.

Benn, respected by the province to the extent officials gave him a seat on the panel, said the Ministry of Health probe failed to examine the ultra-fine sediment of the 61 wells sampled in the study.

“If there was somewhere where somebody seriously dropped the ball in the whole investigation, this is where it was dropped,” Benn said at the Nov. 20 public meeting.

This is quite telling, as the Ford government has failed to live up to its promise. In 2018, while stumping for office, Doug Ford pledged to have a

health-hazard investigation done into the well water situation in North Kent.

Well, he was elected, and then dragged his feet for a couple of years. When the province finally took action, it was more of a broad-brush approach, and employed companies who do a great deal of work for the wind farm corporations to gather information.

And it appears that information was gathered selectively. Why else were there no sediment samples taken?

Anyone viewing the water coming out of these wells – which owners stress were just fine prior to the pile-driving and operation of the wind turbines in the area, can tell there is a great deal of particulate suspended in the water.

Is some of that made up of carcinogenic heavy metals, known to exist in Kettle Point black shale, on which the aquifer exists? If so, are the metals transferring to those who drink the water?

Too few answers were provided and too few questions asked during the all-hazard investigation.

When you have a panel member, and even the Ministry called for further studies, the government must take notice. And it must do so in a timely manner.

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.

Chatham Voice advertising policy The publisher of this newspaper, CK Media Inc., reserves the right to clarify or refuse any advertisement based on its sole discretion. The publisher reserves the right to reject, discontinue or omit any advertisement without notice

or penalty to either party.

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

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

A member of:

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

Pleasant payment surprise Editor: About three weeks ago, Loretta and I were in Maple City Bakery having lunch, and another couple were having lunch also. We got into a conversation with them.

Now, we didn’t know these people and had never seen them before.

These folks left before we did, and when we left, I went to pay our bill and one of the waitresses told us the other couple had paid our bill.

We were surprised. I told Joe, the owner, and he too

was surprised.

He has good customers and fantastic people who work for him.

The same experience happened to Loretta at Food Basics a few days before. A lady paid for the few groceries she had bought because her bank card wouldn’t work.

This store has some good customers and employees also.

Since COVID started, the world has been turned upside down and every-

one has been hit with high prices for food and gasoline.

This needs to stop.

Once again thanks to you good people who paid us a good gesture of human kindness.

We need more deeds of kindness and love for our fellow human beings.

Right now the whole world needs it.

David Hamilton & Loretta Hope Chatham-Kent

Better enforcement or speed bumps?

Editor: We have become accustomed to roaring, noisy vehicle engines and their speeding drivers on Chatham’s streets, activity which is apparently ignored entirely by local and provincial police alike.

Only once have I seen police stopping traffic on southbound St. Clair Street, near Paxton Drive, where there are easy pickings as the speed limit drops from 60 to 50 km/h. They spent all of

an afternoon at it, as far as I’m aware.

The lack of enforcement seems to encourage this kind of behaviour on our own residential street – and for all I know, many others – where we endure noise and speeding on a daily basis. Neighbours have complained before, to which police allegedly respond “We’re too busy.”

Perhaps.

But I was deeply dis-

turbed to see the same concrete cowboys speeding up and down this street repeatedly on Halloween as I sat on my front porch shelling out for dozens of children making their way from house to house.

If police are too busy to deal with this sort of thing, perhaps more speed bumps on residential streets are in order?

Marcel Gautreau Chatham

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022

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PAGE 8

News Zonta says no Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022

Body identified The Chatham Voice

The Zonta Club of Chatham-Kent stood strong on the Third Street Bridge Friday to show their support for female victims of abuse across the world. The annual event protests against human trafficking, sexual harassment, sexual assault and female circumcision, and is part of the 16 Days of Activism campaign.

The OPP have identified the body found at the side of Highway 40 back in mid-September.

The deceased is identified as Matthew Hewer, 41, of Chatham.

The OPP continue to investigate the events that led to the discovery of the deceased on Hwy. 40

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between Pine Line and Eberts Line in the predawn hours of Sept. 19.

Investigators are looking to speak with any member of the public who may have observed a northbound white hatchback passenger vehicle or an individual walking in the area on Sept. 19 between 5:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022

News

Veteran aid

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

PAGE 9

Feedback sought The Chatham Voice

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 642 Poppy Fund just got a nice boost, thanks to a donation from Chatham’s New LIfe Thrift Store. New Life volunteers Marlene Van Raay, Chrystal Koopman and Ellen Vandersluis presented branch president Len Maynard and poppy chair Jim Mason with a cheque for $3,550 recently. The money will be used to help Canadian veterans.

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is asking residents what recreational and cultural projects they would like to see developed throughout the community.

Ideas can range from more sports fields, skate parks and splash pads to sculptures and public art

displays.

To share your ideas and vote, visit letstalkchatham-kent.ca/recreationand-art-wish-list.

Use the map on the site to identify the community and ward in which you live.

Results will be shared with the public in the coming weeks. Voting will be open until Dec. 9.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 10

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022

News

Agriculturalists honoured in C-K

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Mitchell and Morgan Anderson aren’t certain what the future holds, but they know they will both be choosing a career in agriculture.

The siblings, who are both studying the subject at the University of Guelph, said they were inspired by positive role models they had growing up on a 200-acre farm near Ridgetown.

It all began with them riding

in the fields with their grandpa, helping grandma in the garden and playing with toy tractors their parents’ brought home.

Their ongoing passion for all things agriculture was recognized Nov. 23 at the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce Rural Urban Awards.

Held at the John D. Bradley Centre in Chatham, the event saw five people receive awards, one posthumously.

Mitchell, 18, was named Youth Agriculturist of the Year for 2022, while his older sister Morgan, 20, received the

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same award in 2021. However, she was unable to receive the award last year, as the ceremonies weren’t held because of pandemic restrictions.

The sister and brother have always been closely associated with the agriculture business.

Their parents work in the sector, they both belonged to 4-H and they each help on their uncle’s dairy farm.

Both recently attended the Royal Winter Fair in Toronto, where they showed cattle and where Mitchell also groomed cattle.

Morgan, now in her third year at Guelph, said attending university with others interested in agriculture has been a great experience.

“You find your people there,” she added. “It’s a lot of fun to be part of a group where everyone has the same passion.”

Three other awards were also presented.

Wallaceburg’s Dennis DeBot was named Agriculture Innovator of the Year for building a stateof-the-art grain-drying FISH system that has made

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Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

There were smiles all around at the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce’s 76th Annual Rural Urban Awards held last week at the John D. Bradley Centre. From left, accepting the award for Youth Agriculturist of the Year, 2021, is Morgan Anderson; while her brother Mitchell Anderson got the nod for the same award for 2022. Sue Boyle accepted the Agriculturist of the Year award for fiancée Danny Ellis posthumously. Dennis DeBot was named Agriculture Innovator of the Year and Ken McEwan received the Friend of Agriculture award.

his 6,000-plus-acre farm 70 per cent more efficient.

Another Wallaceburg area resident was recognized posthumously. Crop fertility expert Danny Ellis, who passed away in March, was named Agriculturist of the Year. The award was accepted by his fiancée Sue Boyle.

The 2022 Friend of Agriculture

Award went to Ken McEwan.

A professor at the University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus and formerly the campus director, McEwan has taught thousands of students over the course of his career. An economist by trade, McEwan said it’s important for urban dwellers to support farmers and agriculture.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

Whether it’s to invoke beauty or provoke thought, more public art is in the works for Chatham-Kent.

At its Nov. 21 meeting, council approved the creation of the municipality’s first ever public art policy.

The decision was reached following a presentation by Heather Slater, manager of arts and culture for Chatham-Kent.

Input from the public will be critical to the process, Slater said, as “consultation is absolutely key to a successful public art program.

“Public art is for – and often about – the community in which it lives, and to be impactful, it relies on the input of individuals from those communities,” she said, noting the feedback gathered thus far has been “extremely supportive” of public art.

“Internal and external consultation will continue to guide us as we build a public art program for Cha-

tham-Kent,” Slater added, stressing that this will be a key component of each new public art call.

A survey on public art is now available on the municipality’s webpage Let’s Talk CK. Officials are encouraging feedback so the policy can better address the new policy.

“We’re looking for input on how to create a public art program unique to Chatham-Kent,” Slater added.

Council also approved the creation of a public art reserve. Funds of $33,826 from the divestment of the Blenheim Heritage House are to go to the reserve, along with an annual allocation of $40,000 from the TekSavvy bridge sponsorship fund for public art programming in 2024 and 2025.

Next steps for the policy include the creation and initial meetings of core committees; the creation of a manual and guidelines for public art in private development; launch of the initial public art call for completion in 2023-24; development of a public art master plan and ongoing public consultation.

Four inducted into Kent Ag Hall of Fame The Chatham Voice

The past week saw the induction of four well-known names into the Kent Agricultural Hall of Fame.

The four, who have worked tirelessly as innovators and promoters of agriculture, were recognized at a ceremony at Hidden Hills Golf Club Nov.22.

Chatham-Kent’s famed Kim Cooper, the “AgGuy” columnist who worked for more than 40 years as a tireless promoter of Chatham-Kent agriculture, was welcomed to the hall of fame. Cooper worked as an advisor to the municipality for many years and helped develop the “We Grow for the World” campaign.

Former Raleigh Township Reeve George Denys was recognized by the hall of fame for his many roles in agriculture, including helping to create crop insurance for farmers.

Always advocating for agriculture, the vegetable farmer was instrumental in establishing a labour force for vegetable and fruit growers. He was also an early supporter of the Corn Producer’s Association.

Dresden-area innovator Dennis Jackson was also inducted. He’s the founder of Jackson Seed Service and a pioneer in the field of food-grade soybeans, shipping to 10 countries around the world. Jackson is a supporter of many community projects and a humorous promoter of local agriculture through his “Soybean Man” YouTube channel.

The name of the late Dr. Ron Pitblado, who passed away in 2009, was also added to the hall of fame.

Pitblado was known as a pest management specialist who shared his knowledge with thousands of students at the University of Guelph Ridgetown campus.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 12

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022

News

Chatham-Kent council against Bill 23 as proposed in a new piece of legislation called Bill 23.

At its Nov. 21 meeting, council endorsed a recommendation from South Kent Coun. Trevor Thompson to send a formal letter supporting the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority’s

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

The municipality has added its voice to the chorus concerned about sweeping governance changes to Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities

concerns relating to the bill.

As chair of the authority, Thompson said there are several key issues looming within Bill 23, including downloading liability and cost onto municipalities in dealing with issues such as flooding and plan-

ning. He said it will also add more responsibility to each municipality and weakens the ability of conservation authorities to protect people.

Thompson said it would also prohibit the LTVCA from providing input on decisions and could ne-

cessitate the municipality to farm out the services the conservation authority currently provides.

“I’m not opposed to development, but this is something that has broad ramifications,” Thompson said.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 13

Business

Greenfield celebrates 25 years in C-K

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Twenty-five years down and at least another 25 to go.

That’s the mindset of Greenfield Global’s Veselin Nikolov. He’s the plant manager for Greenfield’s Chatham operation, which just celebrated its 25th anniversary.

For two and a half decades, the plant has produced ethyl alcohol from corn.

“We have a good program in place here. The plan is to continue to invest and grow the plant,” he said. “I am very proud of the place I work. It’s a great environment for nurturing people. And safety is the most important component.”

Greenfield employs more than 80 people at its Chatham plant. Each received a custom-made gift last week from local wood artisan Devin Schaffner to commemorate the 25th anniversary.

These days, the focus is on high-grade alcohol, suitable for beverages and pharmaceuticals, Nikolov said.

Their alcohol has been used in Crystal Skull vodka, for example. In fact, Greenfield works with more than 700 distillers and bottlers around the world.

Nikolov said in recent years, the output is about 70 per cent earmarked for the beverage and pharmaceutical industries and the other 30 per cent goes into ethanol for fuel. He’d like to see the ratio reach 90-10 in the future.

As well, the focus is on high-quality output with a reduced carbon footprint. Since 2017, Greenfield has teamed up with Truly Green greenhouses on the other side of Bloomfield Road to exchange heat and carbon dioxide.

“We try to be a good corporate citizen and support the local community.

We work to have less impact on the environment,” he said.

Greenfield and Truly

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Dover Duds and Lucier Glove and Safety Products have set up shop at a new location at the intersection of Highway 40 and Countryview Line north of Chatham. Dover Duds manager Dyana Charlton said business has been brisk since the store’s recent opening.

Green are still perfecting the process.

“It’s really challenging.

Being innovative and having something absolutely unique,” Nikolov said.

“It works, but we’ve had to shut it down to make improvements. Hopefully 2023 will be the year everything will run well.”

Excess heat and carbon dioxide head to Truly Green from Greenfield.

Nikolov said what heads to Truly Green is lowgrade heat, a byproduct of the fermentation process.

“Normally, it’s vented through the stack. There’s nothing we can do with it, but it’s perfect for Truly Green and growing tomatoes,” he said.

Truly Green sends cold water to Greenfield, which in turn heats the water and sends it back.

“The water harvests the heat and it goes back to Truly Green.

It’s an uninterrupted loop,” Nikolov said.

Country Club (formerly Countryview).

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TJ Stables has a special offer for a Christmas giving idea for the horse lover, the Two-Hour Horse Connection.

Get to know a horse by grooming, preparing for a lesson/assessment and follow that up with a onehour trail ride or arena ride (on site) weather permitting.

TJ Stables is open year round.

This offer is regularly valued at $130, but for the Christmas gifting, TJ’s is

offering it at $50 off, for $80.

TJ Stables is located at 837 Gregory Dr. E. in Chatham.

• 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.

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Dover Duds moves

Dover Duds, carriers of outdoor workwear clothing, boots and shoes, has changed locations.

For years, the shop had been on Bear Line Road. It is now on Highway 40, or rather St. Clair Road, with a street address of 25442 St. Clair Rd. But the easiest way to mark where they’re located is the store is across the road from Hidden Hills Golf &

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PAGE 14

THE CHATHAM VOICE

Community Events

Thursday, December 1, 2022: • Panzerotti Special at the Merlin Legion Br. 465, 2 Stanley Street Merlin.

• Festive Christmas Music - Pipe Organ Music of the Season, a 3-week Advent pipe organ series at the church. All recitals begin at 12:15 and are approximately 45min. Very informal “come and go” format. Everyone is welcome.

Thurs. Dec. 1 - Dr. Wayne Carroll.

Thurs. Dec. 8 - Dr. Carroll with Kathleen Gahagan, harpist. Thurs.

Dec. 15 - Dr. Carroll with the Carroll String Ensemble, an 8-member chamber orchestra. Holy Trinity-St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 81 Selkirk St., at the corner of Victoria Avenue, Chatham. Lots of parking.

Free. Donations gratefully accepted to cover expenses. Masks are optional. For further information, contact: ian.chathamcentrercco@ gmail.com Chatham Centre, Royal Canadian College of Organists. https://www.facebook.com/ groups/2154088471326478.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am– 9:30pm.

Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am-1:30pm. Check out our daily specials . Euchre at 1:00 p.m.

Everyone is welcome.

Friday, December 2, 2022: • Merlickin’ pork chops with scalloped potatoes, vegetable, bun and dessert at the Merlin Legion Br. 465, 2 Stanley Street Merlin.

• Join Wallaceburg writer John Gardiner and Chatham singer/ songwriter Julie Ross for an evening of words and music at the Turns and Tales Board Game Café at 7:30 p.m. This is a free event, but the hat will be passed and there will be merchandise for sale just in time for the Christmas season.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm.

Kitchen is open for lunch from 11:30am–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. Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639.

Fun Darts at 7:00 p.m. Everyone Welcome.

• Community Living Chatham-Kent’s Community Christmas Concert at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave. W., Chatham. 7:00pm9:00pm. Doors open at 6:15pm.

Admission: cash donation.

Proceeds stay in Chatham-Kent.

Performers include: Cornell School of Irish Dance, Pine Street Performers, Bailey Baggio, Camryn Dudley, The Ginty Family.

Saturday, December 3, 2022: • 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.

• Kitchen menu at the Merlin Legion Br. 465, 2 Stanley Street Merlin.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm.

Meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch from 3:00pm–5:30pm. Entertainment by Unity Station from 4:309:30. Everyone Welcome.

• Christmas House Tour – Catherine McVean IODE. Saturday, Dec 3rd 6–9pm and Sunday, Dec 4th 1–4 pm. Tickets $20. Pick up tickets and map the day of at Union Block Bakery, Dresden.

Sunday, December 4, 2022: • Classic Country Jamboree at the Merlin Legion. 3pm-7pm.

Perch dinner with potato, beans, coleslaw and dessert. $20 for 3 pc and $24 for 5 pc. Both include $7 entry. Pickup dinners $13 and $17 respectively and Jam only $7. Kids meals available too. Call Lori at 519 476 5870 to book your spot.

• The CK Singers present A Christmas Spectacular. 2:00 pm matinee at First Presbyterian Church. 60 Fifth St at Wellington.

Freewill donation for Outreach for Hunger. Featuring soloists: Andrew Derynck, Aimee Clifford and Holly McCubbin on flute. Masks are required.

• Perch Dinner @ 5pm at the Merlin Legion Br. 465, 2 Stanley Street Merlin, RSVP with Lori @ 519-476-5870.

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

Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am-1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce.

Euchre at 1:00 and 7:00. Shuffleboard starting at 7:00 p.m.

Everyone is welcome.

Wednesday, December 7, 2022: • The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm.

Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am-1:30pm. Daily special is meat loaf dinner. Fun darts start at 7:00.m. Everyone is welcome.

Thursday, December 8, 2022: • Unifor Local 127 Retirees Meeting at 10:00am. 405 Riverview Dr., Chatham.

Fun Stuff

65. Member of Jamaican religion 66. Large wading bird 67. Carries out 68. Eternal rest 69. It holds up your head words

Tuesday, December 6, 2022: • Join us and learn how to take control of your health! Diabetes, Healthy Feet & You, 9:30am12:00pm. FREE Registration at: https://dhfy_dec6.eventbrite.ca.

Access virtual programs using any computer, tablet or smartphone.

All workshop materials are provided free of charge.

• Come in for a cozy craft night at the Chatham Branch of the Chatham-Kent Public Library! We will be making sock gnomes! All supplies are provided, so just bring yourself and get ready for a jolly good time! 6:30 pm in the Meeting Room. Program open for teens 13–18 years of age. Registration required. Register by contacting staff 519-354-2940. By text 519401-7174. By email – cklibrary@ chatham-kent.ca. By Facebook chat - @ckplibrary.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022

CLUES ACROSS 1. Chop up 5. Ones who utilize 10. Sings with closed lips 14. South American hummingbird 15. Serves as a coxswain 16. Liquor distilled from coconut or rice 17. Spur 18. Senile 19. Tanzanian people 20. Cruel 22. Boxing’s “GOAT” 23. Yokels 24. London soccer team 27. Chinese chess piece 30. Supervises flying 31. 007’s creator 32. Shaft horsepower (abbr.)

35. A spider makes one

37. Liquefied natural gas 38. Opaque gem 39. Brazilian palm 40. Periodical (slang) 41. You might step on one 42. Marvin and Horsley are two 43. Partner to cheese 44. Unpleasant smell 45. Field force unit (abbr.)

46. Fashion accessory 47. Cool!

48. Time zone 49. Songs to one’s lover 52. German river 55. Go bad 56. Sword 60. Very eager 61. Leaf bug 63. Italian seaport 64. Napoleon Dynamite’s uncle

• Panzerotti Special at the Merlin Legion Br. 465, 2 Stanley Street Merlin.

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

Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am-1:30pm. Senior euchre at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

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

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CLUES DOWN 1. Not low 2. Small water buffalo 3. A mark left behind 4. Archaic form of have 5. Fiddler crabs 6. Popular Hyundai sedan 7. Deport 8. Making over 9. Midway between south and southeast 10. Arabic masculine name 11. Type of acid 12. Popular 1980s Cher film 13. Outdoor enthusiasts’ tools 21. Chinese city 23. “Star Wars” character Solo 25. The bill in a restaurant 26. Old, ugly witch 27. Burn with a hot liquid 28. To claim or demand 29. “A Doll’s House” playwright 32. Involuntary muscular contraction 33. Pea stems (British) 34. Double or multiple fold 36. No longer is 37. Lakers’ crosstown rivals (abbr.)

38. S. American plant cultivated in Peru 40. Cloth or fabric 41. Flanks 43. Disfigure 44. Angry 46. Baltic coast peninsula 47. Large, flightless birds 49. Plants of the lily family 50. Medieval Norwegian language 51. Polio vaccine developer 52. Not soft 53. Exchange rate 54. Voice (Italian) 57. Baseball’s Ruth 58. Famed guitarist Clapton 59. Take a chance 61. Wife 62. Elaborate handshake

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022

Obituary

Birth Announcement

GAMMAGE, Robert Keith

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We’ve Moved!

Edward Blondeel 81, Saturday, November 19, 2022 Life Transitions

John Edward Cook 81, Tuesday, November 22, 2022 McKinlay Funeral Home

Helen Hoffman 72, Saturday, November 19, 2022 Life Transitions

Margery Ann Roe 90, Wednesday, November 23, 2022 McKinlay Funeral Home

Martyn “Bert” Stephens Sunday, November 20, 2022 Life Transitions

Bruno Hochheimer 83, Saturday, November 19, 2022 Nicholls Funeral Home

Patricia Apthorp Thursday, November 17, 2022 Life Transitions

Rhonda Deming 43, Friday, November 18, 2022 Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Matthew Hewer Monday, September 19, 2022 Life Transitions

Ed Randall 47, Monday, November 21, 2022 Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Robert & Richard Tanha Thursday, November 17, 2022 McKinlay Funeral Home

William Angus Johnson 86, Thursday, November 24, 2022 Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Jessica Linda Alain 38, Wednesday, November 16, 2022 McKinlay Funeral Home Stacy Bowls 49, Monday, November 21, 2022 McKinlay Funeral Home

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Call 519-437-1008 for more info.

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April 7, 1945 – Dodsland, Alberta November 17, 2022 - Olds, Alberta

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Robert “Keith” Gammage of Olds, AB, on Thursday, November 17, 2022, at the age of 77 years. Keith came into this world on April 7, 1945, in Dodsland, SK. Boy, the world would never be the same! Keith cherished his childhood in the prairies. He was presented with physical challenges from a young age, but that NEVER held him back. His determination allowed him to obtain degrees from Lakehead, Western, and a Masters of Education from the University of Windsor. In 1969, Keith married Carole Heise and they had two strapping lads, then Daddy’s little girl came along. Keith was very proud of the people his kids became. While inspiring his students, he honed his chalk-throwing skills, being employed by the Kent County Board of Education for twenty-eight years, specializing in math and science. During this time, Keith coached basketball and soccer and was well known for taking his students to various sporting events, Pistons games mostly, leaving a lasting impression on his students’ lives. Keith was a social butterfly and storyteller extraordinaire! Someone once said, “if you give the man a minute he would take your life away” (in a memorable way). “Chief” was a devoted sports fan, Flames, Wolverines, and Rough Riders were his passion. For the last twenty-five years of Keith’s life, he could be found traveling the world with his second wife Jodi. Committing felonies and making memories, Keith was larger than life. There are no words that describe how much “Chief” will be missed. Besides his partner in crime Jodi, Keith is survived by his three brats, Calvin (Terri), Bryant (Tina), and Marla; grandchildren, Ashleigh, Zakkaree, Madison, Makenna, Kolton, and Emma; great-grandchildren, Everett, Smith, and Emilia; and stepchildren Erin (Jem) and his two sisters, three grandchildren Kieran, Kylie and Brae-lyn. Keith is also survived by his two sisters, Marion and Heather; and various nieces, nephews, and cousins. Keith was predeceased by his parents, Bob and Ruth Gammage. Run free Chief, your tee time awaits! If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Canadian Spinal Research Organization, 2, 120 Newkirk Rd., Richmond Hill ON L4C 9S7 Telephone 1 (800) 361-4004, www.csro. com/donate. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed at www.McInnisandHolloway.com. In living memory of Robert Keith Gammage, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Airdrie, 300 Towerlane Drive, Airdrie, AB T4B 3L8, Telephone: 403-948-1100.

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Divorced 78 year old non-smoking gentleman seeking local non-smoking lady in 70’s for companionship & friendship for local social activities including walks, card playing, conversation & other fun activities. Please answer to PO Box 513, Chatham, ON N7M 5K6.

Unattached, RETIRED FEMALE seeking a nice retired or semi-retired UNATTACHED MALE companion for FUN and TRAVEL. Must own a car or truck, speak French, love cats and boating. Let’s talk.

Call 226-229-2751

Ministry

Healing Love Ministry is an all night prayer line with counsellors available from 12:00am-7:00am. Also, a male support group for those struggling with sexual addiction. A home based ministry, private and confidential.

519-354-3532.

lifetransitions.ca • 519-351-4444

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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A Part of Wallaceburg since 1943.

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This weeks puzzles answers. Puzzle on page 14

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 16

3 ways alcohol impacts your ability to drive 1. Inhibitions are lowered, affecting judgment and coordination, even after one drink.

2. Reaction times are slowed, even after two beers.

3. Vision, balance, speech and movement are adversely affected.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022

The ratio of alcohol to blood in the body is called the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC).

Two people drinking the same amount of alcohol can have drastically different BACs. Body weight, drink strength, amount of food in the stomach, time between drinks and even gender can all affect a person’s BAC and level of impairment.

While a BAC of .08 is typically the legal limit, any level of impairment significantly increases the likelihood of a traffic crash, putting your life and the lives of others in danger.

The bottom line? If you plan on drinking, getting behind the wheel is always a bad idea.

If you see a driver you suspect is impared, pull over and call 911.

You are not safer when you are high Cannabis affects your judgment, coordination and reaction time, and increases your chances of being in a collision. In 2016, 74 people were killed in collisions involving a driver under the influence of drugs in Ontario according to police reports.

Celebrate Responsibly • Agree on a designated driver before you go out for the evening.

When hosting this season host thoughtfully: • Offer a mocktail, alcohol-free beer or other nonalcoholic beverage for guests choosing not to drink.

• Save the number for several local cab companies in your phone if you plan to drink,

• Ask guests who are drinking if they have a designated driver or transportation plans.

or make sure you have a ride-share app downloaded to your phone.

• If someone has been drinking and might drive, offer your couch as a place to sleep. • Ask a friend if you can crash on his or her couch for the night if you’ve had too much to drink.

• Help guests who have been drinking arrange transportation through a ride-share app or taxi service.

• If you’re attending a party and are concerned you may drink too much, give your keys to the host at the start of the evening, so he or she can hold on to them unless you are sober.

Personal Personal Personal Personal service, service, service, service, every every time. time. time. time.

Community isevery our focus, shop local!

Personal service, every time.every

ervice, every time.

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Goodfellows’ Code: The best of life and the worth of it Is not how much can I get for me But what I have done to be neighbourly.

Don’t Drink and Drive

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Arrive Alive, Don’t Drink & Drive!

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Think Before Your Drink:

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Plan Ahead for a Safe Ride Home.

ONE BAD DECISION CAN COST A LIFE. Protect yourself, your loved ones and everyone on the road by staying sober and focused behind the wheel this holiday season and all year.

Chatham-Kent Police Service Police Headquarters 24 Third St. PO Box 366 Chatham, Ontario N7M 5K5 519-352-1234

Driving while intoxicated can cost you dearly. Why risk so much?

Some effective alternatives include appointing a designated driver, calling someone for a ride, using a safe ride service or calling a taxi!

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

mckinlayfuneralhome.com