The Chatham Voice, Aug. 6, 2015

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Brightenview moving cautiously with GDC

But nothing has developed as yet.

Burton said he isn’t too Chatham-Kent’s head of worried. He said Brighteconomic development enview, headquartered in doubts construction will Saskatchewan, is being begin anytime soon on quite cautious.

Calls and e-mails to the Global Development officials Centre (GDC) slated for Brightenview seeking Blenheim. comment M i c h a e l “Until they know how not Burton, di- to tell the investors the were rector of process, they don’t re- returned by press time. economic The comd e v e l o p - ally want to invest the pany’s plan ment for the $45 million on spec.” is to erect municipal- - Michael Burton the GDC, ity, expects 680,000-square-foot, no shovels will hit the a industrial ground by mid-October. $45-million project, That’s when the extended condominium closing date for the land which would help facildeal expires. In April, itate expansion to North council gave Brighten- America for small and view Development Inter- mid-sized companies.

Brightenview’s vision is national a 180-day extension on the $800,000-plus to see the GDC eventualland deal that effective- ly be home to as many as ly was to gobble up all 80-100 different offshore available land – 34 acres businesses.

The concept, according – in Blenheim’s industrial to Burton, is for Brightenpark.

The deal was announced view to build the structure in September 2014, little and supply support for more than a month prior offshore small- and medito the last municipal elec- um-sized businesses.

Continued on page 2 tion.

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

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Ken Francis enjoys a nice water balloon dunking at the third annual Children’s Respite Carnival held July 29 by Community Living Chatham-Kent. The person responsible for the dunk was none other than Francis’ daughter, Lydia. See story on page 4.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

News

Construction unlikely to begin soon

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to begin operations.

Burton said Brightenview officials have been slow to take the first construction step because they are unsure of word-

“The provincial nominee program allows investors to come in and operate their companies when they come into the country,” he said.

“The Ontario program is not quite as clear as other provinces.”

Burton said British Columbia and Saskatchewan, for example, have changed their PNP language “Before I moved into Residence on the to make matters Thames I was lonely, now my activities are more straightsocial: Tai Chi, Cards, Wii Bowling... forward. Such there is never a dull moment.” efforts are being made in OntarCall to book a furnished io, but it is not guest suite today! yet complete.

Burton said the • Wonderful Accommodations • 24 Hour Emergency Response province has to • Marvelous Healthy Meals • Weekly Housekeeping & Laundry have language • Unique Care Services • Friendly Caring Staff the federal gov• Social Activities • Furnished Suites & Complimentary Stays Available ernment approves, as it is www.myretirementliving.ca ultimately that

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ing in an Ontario government program – the provincial nominee program (PNP) – which paves the way for investment from outside the country.

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government who gives the thumbs up or thumbs down to out of country investment.

“This has caused a lot of fuzzy areas for the GDC. Until they know how to tell the investors the process, they don’t really want to invest the $45 million on spec,” Burton said. “That’s been the holdup. I know Minister (Michael) Chan (of the Ministry of Citizenship, Culture and International Trade) wants his department to get a similar approach in Ontario (to that of B.C. and Saskatchewan), but that hasn’t happened yet.”

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Brightenview for the past six months to try to iron out the issue.

“We’re trying to assure them companies can be nominated (for the PNP) if they have the money and it isn’t tainted,” he said, referring to the need for finances to come from legitimate areas.

Burton said contacts abroad have expressed interest in the GDC plan.

“We’re getting pretty good response from just about anybody coming into the community from China. They say it sounds great, especially from the services the GDC will provide,” he said. “I can see applications from German, Indian and Asian companies.

This would be a hell of an attraction to smaller companies off shore who want to set up here. It’s just getting the damned thing built.”

Burton doesn’t anticipate Brightenview making the mid-October closing date for the property, but he is also not overly worried.

“Will all this unfold in time? I suspect it won’t.

At the same time, I don’t expect that land to be gobbled up quickly by other investors,” he said.

“As long as they’re still intent on setting it up and building it, that’s my main concern.

“I’m comfortable Brightenview will be able to fill all the spaces. But there’s got to be a clear understanding of the status of the (PNP) program.”

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Animal shelter receiving financial help before asking

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

The driving forces behind a new animal shelter had hoped to hit the ground running when it came time to begin fundraising. But the ground has rushed up to meet them.

Art Stirling, who with Marjorie Crew, co-chairs the quest to build a new $2-million animal shelter for Chatham-Kent, said they have already seen fundraising dollars pour in ... even though they haven’t begun the fundraising portion of their campaign yet.

“We’ve probably received about $60,000 so far. It’s so early. But we’ve already had two or three pleasant surprises,” he said. “We’ve had great support so far.”

That has included a couple of large donations and a fundraiser. Pet and Wildlife Rescue (PAWR) recently held an online auction, raising $3,000.

And more are lined up to help.

“Another group is talking about doing a golf tournament for us.

There’s already interest by other groups and businesses to support us. That’s wonderful,” he said.

“And we’ll provide whatever support we can to their fundraisers.”

All this is months before Stirling, Crew and the committee get rolling on fundraising of their own.

Stirling said they have posters and brochures produced and are now making contact with individuals and organizations.

“The committee is busy now reaching out to a number of influencer groups. These folks might not only be supportive themselves, but they also interact with pet lovers all the time,” he said.

Stirling said the committee wanted to take its time getting going, to ensure people understood what it hopes to accomplish in building a new shelter to replace the cramped OSPCA shelter on Park Avenue East. The new shelter will be built on the same street.

“We wanted to get materials out

in the key areas so people can see what we’re doing. In terms of a large-scale public campaign, we’re probably a few months away from that,” he said. “We want to make sure people understand the difference between the current OSPCA and what we are looking to do.”

That hasn’t prevented groups from coming forward to offer assistance, or from the committee meeting with key individuals and groups. Those include veterinarians, pet food and pet supply stores, pet rescue groups, and other organizations.

“The funeral directors are quite interested,” Stirling said. “We’ve received donations in memory of people.”

Stirling said the early support is a sign of how badly a new shelter is needed in the municipality.

“In my mind, from being on council the last eight years and being in the fundraising field (he was the executive director of the Children’s Treatment Centre Foundation of Chatham-Kent), there is a pent-up demand in the community to support a new animal shelter,” he said.

“People see the need and see the state of the current facility. It’s just something the community, in my personal opinion, wants to rally behind.”

Stirling said the OSPCA isn’t to blame for the lack of a new shelter in the municipality. It’s a combination of things that have led to such a dire need.

“We never had a dedicated focus – between the OSPCA and Chatham-Kent – for someone to step forward and get the job done.

That’s what Marjorie and I are trying to fill.”

Despite the support and interest already, Stirling doesn’t want to alter the committee’s timelines.

“You want to get rolling, but you want to do things very deliberately. It positions you for success,” he said. “I don’t want to do it fast.

I want to do it right. This is our chance to make it happen.”

Cookin’ for a cause Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Mary Button enjoys a hot dog Friday at Food 4 Less’ charity barbecue. The store is donating proceeds from the barbecue to the Salvation Army, and asked patrons to donate non-perishable food items. Scott O’Brien, manager for Food 4 Less in Chatham, was busy manning the grill for the four-hour barbecue, and said response from the community was great.

Store staff also donated to the cause.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 4

News Bruce Corcoran /The Chatham Voice

Noah Hamel, 3, tries his hand at milking a cow at the Children’s Respite Carnival held July 29

by Community Living Chatham-Kent.

Hamel, and many other kids, had help from Melissa Jansen with the Essex-Kent Milk Producers. As for the cow, it was a life-sized replica that dispensed water.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

Respite Carnival draws folks in

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

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It turns out the third time is indeed the charm, at least for Community Living Chatham-Kent.

The organization held its third annual Children’s Respite Carnival on July 29, playing host to kids and parents on a sweltering summer day.

Cathie Verfaillie, one of the event organizers, said turnout on a sweltering sunny summer day was the best yet.

“We do it so they can come out and have fun,” she said of the kids involved. Dozens of children and their families showed up to take part in various games, have lunch, and play some more.

Everyone went home with a prize, Verfaillie said. And smiles.

An easy way to get a smile at the carnival was to have a water balloon

dropped on your head in the light version of a dunk tank. Also popular was the bouncy house.

New to the carnival this year was a life-sized replica cow. Melissa Jansen with the Essex-Kent Milk Producers exposed interested kids to what it is like to milk a cow. She had a full-sized replica cow, whose udder dispensed water.

“This lets them get an idea of how to milk a real cow,” she said, adding there is no mess to clean up and no danger of the fake cow moving or becoming agitated.

Community Living Chatham-Kent provides supports and services for people who have an intellectual disability. The organization’s goal is that all people live in a state of dignity, share in all elements of living in the community and have the opportunity to participate effectively.

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PAGE 5

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Chatham-Kent-Essex MP Dave Van Kesteren, left, tours the kitchen of the Active Lifestyle Centre after announcing a $25,000 Canada 150 Fund grant Friday. With him is kitchen worker Freddie Polak, 90, an Auschwitz survivor, executive director Linda Lucas, and board chair Dave Hewstone.

ALC to receive $25K kitchen upgrade

By Mary Beth Corcoran mary@chathamvoice.com

No more lighting the old stove for the kitchen staff at the Active Lifestyle Centre (ALC) in Chatham, thanks to a $25,000 grant from the Canada 150 Fund.

Chatham-Kent-Essex Federal MP Dave Van Kesteren was on hand Friday to announce the funding at a summer birthday celebration at the ALC, and the large crowd responded with plenty of clapping and smiles, especially from the kitchen volunteers and centre maintenance staff.

Van Kesteren said the ALC application sent in by executive director Linda Lucas met the funding criteria and was approved. The MP said other projects have also been approved in the riding, including the Chatham Granite Club, the Merlin Legion

and the Chatham Legion, for a total, including upcoming Leamington projects, of $430,000 in the riding.

According to ALC board chair Dave Hewstone, the building committee has had a kitchen upgrade on their wish list for two years and the announcement was very welcome.

“The kitchen has been an issue for quite some time.

It’s an old stove and we have a problem with the walk-in freezer; it dies every six months and so does the food in it,” Hewstone said.

“The kitchen is used seven days a week for lunch for seniors and various parties.”

Lucas said the announcement was “very exciting for kitchen staff and will make our maintenance man happy. Every day he lights

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PAGE 6

Let the funding begin A great sign that something is sorely needed is when it begins to receive donations before any official fundraising has kicked off.

That’s the case for the Chatham-Kent Animal Shelter. Community support is well underway, even though the fundraising effort is still in the planning stage.

The shelter’s co-chairs, ex municipal councillors Art Stirling and Marjorie Crew, couldn’t be happier.

To date, they’ve received a couple of $25,000 private donations, as well as a $3,000 helping from the Pet and Wildlife Rescue, the proceeds from an online auction.

The donations keep coming, whether via online or from fundraising events such as what PAWR recently held.

While off to a hot start even before their fundraising feet touch the ground, Stirling and Crew know they still have a long way to go, as they have a $2 million target to build a nearly 6,500 square-foot shelter to replace the cramped OSPCA shelter that sits on Park Avenue East.

Still, when something is badly needed in Chatham-Kent – and a new animal shelter certainly qualifies – this community rallies en masse. Just look at the Chatham-Kent Hospice, which is well under construction behind St. Andrew’s Residence. Hospice volunteers were told by so-called experts there was no way they could raise $5 million in a short time period. It would take years.

Instead, 640 days after a committee first sat down to talk about building a hospice in Chatham-Kent, construction began, and more than $5.7 million was raised.

The doors are slated to open by the end of this year.

The hospice was badly needed to help provide endof-life care in our municipality; local citizens, groups, and businesses stepped up big time.

This time around, a new animal shelter is in dire need; expect a similar groundswell of support. In fact, it’s already begun, ahead of official fundraising.

Most animal lovers in Chatham-Kent – and pretty much anyone else driving by the OSPCA’s aging building – know we need a new shelter.

Crew and Stirling will roll out the fundraising plan later this year to get the ball truly rolling. But a few animal lovers are playing fetch with that same ball already.

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

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

Opinion

C-K overflows with history Sir: Recently I met with T.J. Brown of the Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society where I took my students who are enrolled in the Underground Railroad Pioneers Course at St. Clair College, Thames Campus.

T.J. took us a tour of the Historical Society and surrounding area, which is rich in the history of the first Black settlers in this area.

We, in Chatham-Kent, are so lucky to have history that others from around the world come

to see, yet we know so little of our past, which is in our own backyard.

Did you know that Chatham once had six black doctors, or that Mary Ann Shadd Cary, whose bust is in Freedom Park on the corner of Wellington and Princess streets, was the first female editor of a newspaper in North America?

Abolitionist John Brown spoke in Chatham not long before he participated in the raid at Harper’s Ferry, which precipitated

the Civil War. Frederick Douglass visited the Elgin Settlement in North Buxton as he had heard that the area was a model settlement of former slaves.

And Abraham Lincoln sent people to North Buxton to study the settlement prior to the emancipation of the slaves in the US. Artis Lane, a world-renowned artist who sculpted the bust of Mary Ann Shadd Cary in

our very own Freedom Park and designed the Congressional Medal of Honor awarded to Rosa Parks, is from Chatham.

There is so much more to know, and I encourage all of you, including students in elementary and high school, to contact the C-K Black Historical Society, speak to T.J. Brown and become more informed about the rich history we seem to take for granted.

Margaret O’Phee Chatham

Property bylaw in place for a reason Sir: I am glad that there is a property standards bylaw. On my street alone, they’ve enforced the tearing down of a crumbling shed filled with garbage, broken glass and needles, and cleaned up a back-

yard so filled with garbage, it took several dumpster loads to haul it all away.

Another building I wish they would tear down is the old Aberdeen

Hotel site. It is an eyesore. The stucco structure is so filled with cracks and patches that they’ve had to riddle it with randomly placed metal rivets to hold it to-

gether. I cringe every time I walk by it and wonder if a piece is going to fall on me. Is there a potential safety issue here?

Carol Evans Henley Chatham

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

More fun packed into WAMBO this year

PAGE 7

News

WAMBO 27 this weekend

By Aaron Hall Contributing Writer

Some new events have been added this year for WAMBO 27, and they are set to use the waterways.

“The south-side will probably be the biggest it will ever be,” said Bill Wolsing, chair of the Wallaceburg Antique Motor and Boat Outing committee.

“Before it was sort of small but now it is starting to evolve into something. Wayne Barnier our south-side manager has done an excellent job on keeping that area busy.”

Wolsing added: “Now we have the cardboard boat races and the inner tube races that will be going on there too. It’s something new that is enhancing the south side.”

This new event has been sponsored by Home Hardware in Wallaceburg.

People needed to pre-register by July 31 to take part in the races.

The boat and paddles must be made of cardboard, duct tape only

and may have a flag. For environmental and safety reasons there is no metal, wood, flippers, air pumps, egg beaters, plastic or motors.

For this event and the inner tube races, you have to be over 18 to participate.

“There will be 12 inner tubes supplied and donated by O’Neil Tire for the inner tube races,” Wolsing said. “They are a huge WAMBO supporter.”

Wolsing added he is thrilled that the walking bridge work is completed in time for WAMBO “That was all planned out ahead of time,” he said. “It was an issue that had to be taken care of. Obviously not just for WAMBO, although it does get used quite a bit for WAMBO. Wolsing said he was in close contact with Coun.

Jeff Wesley throughout the process.

“He was instrumental in keeping me informed,” he said. “It was good to know it was going to get done before WAMBO for sure.”

Chatham Voice file photo

The boats line the docks along the Sydenham River in Wallaceburg during last year’s WAMBO. This year’s event is adding new events for the weekend.

City Hall tries to pass its biology exam using subtraction.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

News

Muddy fun fundraiser returns Sept. 12 The second annual Grapes of Wrath 5 K Obstacle Course is a physical and fun way to raise money for cancer, and the committee has some new challenges and Are you up to the challenge? old favourites from last M.C.B.N. presents an evening year, according to committo celebrate our 10th Anniversary tee member Rachael Mcand acknowledge our success, goals Leod. and people of our Non-Profit “We have brought back Organization for children. some favourites from last year, and it’s a lot climbing, a lot of water, a lot of ropes Friday, August 14th and a lot of mud,” McLeod John D. Bradley Centre said, laughing. “We’ve 565 Richmond St., Chatham been digging ditches and creating hills.”

Cocktail reception at 5:30p.m.

Tickets: $75.00/person The Sept. 12 event begins Gala dinner at 6:30p.m.

Children: $50.00 Dancing & Entertainment to follow with registration starting No tickets available at the door at 7:30 a.m. at Bayside For more information or for tickets please contact: Brewing Co. in Erieau. jennifer@makechildrenbetternow.org • 519-358-1451 ext. 2252 becky@makechildrenbetternow.org • 519-358-1451 ext.2251 Participants will then be

By Mary Beth Corcoran mary@chathamvoice.com

Under the Stars

Fulfilling Your

bussed to C.M. Wilson Conservation el; there are options at every obstacle or Area for 9 a.m. when the heats begin, you can get an obstacle bypass,” Rioux and go on every three minsaid. “The course plays to utes until all participants “Obstacles are doable everyone’s strengths, and are out. teamwork is a big part of at any fitness level; After the course is com- there are options at getting over the obstacle. pleted around noon, parIt’s a sense of accomplishevery obstacle or you ticipants will then be taken ment for people who mayback to Bayside Brewing can get an obstacle be thought they couldn’t Co., the event’s main spon- bypass. The course do it, but were able to.” sor, for a complimentary plays to everyone’s A participant, and All lunch and glass of Long- strengths, and teamfor Wine and Wine for All pond Lager for those over team member, Maggie Kowork is a big part of 19 years of age. brossy from last year said Krissy Rioux, fundraising getting over the obsta- her team has 12 members co-ordinator locally for the cle.” on it, adding her squad Canadian Cancer Society, - Krissy Rioux had a great time last year, said the event is for everygetting dirty, having fun one over 16 years of age, no matter what and raising money for a great cause. shape you are in.

“We got really dirty and it was awe“Obstacles are doable at any fitness lev- some. That’s why you go into these mud runs to see how dirty you can get,” Kobrossy joked. “It’s great to help out and be a part of it and I definitely love the community aspect of it.

With the teamwork and community coming together, people you didn’t know would come along and help you over the obstacle.”

Final Wishes

Continued on page 9

Pre-Planning a Funeral

D

eath is not a topic many people prefer to discuss. However, discussing funeral planning and making arrangements can be a smart financial move and one that limits large decisions at a time of heightened emotions.

The main purpose of pre-need planning is to alleviate the financial burden and decision-making during times of grief and stress. Well-executed plans can make the funeral process run like a well-oiled machine.

It’s never too early to begin pre-planning a funeral. Making a list of information that will go to a trusted family member, executor of one’s estate or a funeral director is one way to start. Here are some items to include: • Name • Date of birth • Place of birth • Location of will • Military service • Place of disposition, whether a cemetery or crematorium • Organ donation preferences • Funeral and/or wake preferences • Name of funeral home and director All arrangements can be thoroughly considered and spelled out so they meet a person’s desires. If he or she has a preference in cemetery or prefers to be interred at a mausoleum, these requests

can be expressed and not assumed by family members.

Pre-planning also enables a person to shop around for the most affordable services, caskets and funeral homes.

Because the average cost of a funeral is between $10,000 to $15,000, it is important to spend money wisely. Preplanning also helps avoid inflation of costs later on, enabling a person to lock in the cost of services now.

Stress and grief can make family members unable to cope with decisions during the time of death. As a result, one of the most important reasons for pre-need planning is to make the process one in which close friends and family members can come to grips with the death, rather than having to run around for a few days and make arrangements in haste. This way loved ones can simply remember a person how he or she was instead of choosing clothing, disposition places, service wording, and the like.

A funeral director can walk a person through the process of pre-planning a funeral. He or she is often licensed to sell cemetery plots and can take much of the work out of the process. A community or family-owned business may have a rapport in the area and offer the best deals or the desired level of personalized service.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

PAGE 9

News

Mud, obstacles for Grapes of Wrath

Continued from page 8

McLeod agreed people surprise themselves with what they can do.

“There was a group last year who didn’t think they could do it,” she explained. “But with some encouragement they did it and loved it so much they came back around and did again.”

Last year, the event surpassed the committee’s expectations, raising over $30,000 with more than 300 participants. The goal this year is $40,000.

McLeod said the event started off in the Niagara area, hence the Grapes of Wrath name, and was so successful there it has become a signature event for the Canadian Cancer Society. With the assistance of Bayside Brewing Co., Lower Thames Conservation (Mud Sponsor) and McAllister Courier (Shuttle Sponsor) and media sponsors Blackburn Radio and The Chatham Voice, McLeod said she hopes this year’s event will be just as successful.

Volunteers are still needed and are

welcome to help with event registration and at the obstacle course.

Early bird registration is $65 until Sept. 1, $80 regular and $100 for event-day registration. Food, beverage, a T-shirt and surprises are included in the fee. Teams and individuals welcome. To register or for more information, call (519) 352-3960 or go to www.cancer. ca/grapesofwrath.

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The Chatham Voice

The Beach Boys are making one stop in Canada this summer and it’s in Chatham-Kent on Saturday.

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PAGE 10

THE CHATHAM VOICE THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

News

Summer fun for a cause nized the concert to raise funds to meet its $100,000 commitment to Chatham-Kent Hospice.

There are 3 levels of tickets available starting at $20 and are available at the Box Office, 75 William Street N, Chatham; by

phone at 519-354-8338 or online at cktickets.com.

The Kent 1874 (formally Chatham Baptist Church), Chatham’s newest event venue, will also be supporting Chatham-Kent Hospice that day. They will be raffling off a number of signed Beach Boys memorabilia during their open house, which will run from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Available in most new Ford vehicles with 6-month pre-paid subscription

Zontas help food bank

Corrinne Kennedy and Wanda Bell, members of the Zonta Club of Chatham-Kent, presented a $1,000 cheque to Captain Stephanie Watkinson, Family Services Director of the Salvation Army recently to assist in building up their food bank supplies.

The Salvation Army issued a plea for food items, which coincided with a wrap up meeting of the committee that had organized the 2nd Annual Zonta Garden and Pond Tour. Stocks are low because it is summer and many families and single mothers who rely on school breakfast and lunch programs find it difficult to feed their children without that extra assistance.

The captain explained that use of the food bank was up 80% compared to this time last year.

Dedication pays off

A Wallaceburg teen’s dedication to academic excellence and community engagement was recently recognized by Community Living Wallaceburg.

Rachael Lotman was awarded with the agency’s Family Scholarship.

A graduate of Wallaceburg District Secondary School, Lotman received a $1,000 cheque.

In addition to receiving honours throughout her high school career, Lotman remains actively involved with multiple volunteer organizations that focus on the inclusion of individuals in the community.

She is spending her summer assisting at Riverview Cemetery. She has enrolled in the Earth Science program at Carleton University in Ottawa with a goal of gaining a better understanding of the past and how to preserve the world in the future.

Ice, ice baby

Chatham’s Andrew Evans is working on a way to keep citizens cool this summer, while raising money for charity.

Evans has opened Kona Ice. His decked out mobile shaved ice truck features a tiki hut top, self-serve Flavorwave and flavors such as pickle and tigers blood. He partners with schools and sports programs throughout that area to host “Kona Days” which allow administrators to raise money for underfunded programs and initiatives.

Evans gives back 20-30% of his proceeds at each of these school fundraising events back to the school.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

PAGE 11

Life

Is every day optional-shirt-day in C-K? Have you ever noticed how many guys in Chatham walk around with their shirts off in the middle of the day?

We must be Ontario’s per capita capital of shirtless guys.

Now, there is nothing remotely illegal about going topless.

Heck, it’s legal for the ladies to follow suit; has been since 1991.

I know it gets hot in C-K in the summer. But I’m surprised at how many guys – regardless of body type, pull their shirts over their heads, tie them to their belts, and walk around the Maple City.

It seems you get bonus points for going shirtless and walking a dog the size of a compact car too.

Or if you travel in pairs.

I grew up in communities further north, where the summers weren’t so sweltering. I don’t recall quite the addiction for shirt removal. Sure, you do it in your backyard, at the beach or on the water, but it never seemed to be a habit in the downtown core or on a residential street.

And what’s even stranger is that so many of these shirtless guys, halfway through the summer, are exposing pasty white skin. What’s up with that? If you’re so gung ho to remove your shirt, one would have thought this would have been done for many weeks prior, and you would have built up a tan, rather than reflecting the sun in drivers’ eyes with your melanin-starved skin.

I don’t want to discourage guys from getting their dose of Vitamin D by tanning their upper bodies. Ladies, if you are so moved, you can do it too. It’s legal.

But I won’t be. First off, as mentioned, it wasn’t something we did in our family. Second, I don’t have a physique worthy of display. I once joked with a friend I had a washboard stomach. Without missing a beat, he said back, “Looks like you have a load on.” Well played, Doug, well played.

Yes, he had his shirt off at the time.

The house is too quiet

When your kids go off to camp or away with family and friends for a while, you know they’ll have a good time, and you as a parent look forward to a little quiet time around the house.

But it’s amazing at how quickly you tire of said quiet time.

You want your house complete.

Our daughter went away on a trip with relatives to Montreal and Ottawa last week. She had lots of fun.

But by later in the week, we were counting down the minutes until our teen was back home.

Such is parenting, I guess. You

want a break; get one; and then can’t wait for that break to be over.

Paradise by the water

It’s that time of year again for us; a time where we connect with friends for a night or two on the shore of Lake Erie.

Friends Charlene and Chad have family with a place across the road from the water a few kilometres east of Rondeau Provincial Park. The property includes the beach on the other side of the road. It’s a great spot for a bit of camping, as there

Bruce Corcoran is a huge bonfire pit and plenty of flat, shaded grass under some trees.

And, of course, there’s a lot of beach to enjoy.

I love being down there, close

to the water. Regardless of how hot it is, there’s always a breeze coming across the lake. And if you are really warm, one can always go for a swim.

Last year, Chad and I wound up sleeping in gravity chairs under the stars and up close to the fire (it was a cool night).

Our wives found us snoring away in the morning, hoodies drawn close against the mosquitoes, without a care in the world.

Waking up to the sunrise and to the sound of seagulls and the

gentle lapping of waves is never a bad way to start the day And cooking over fire is something I relish. It doesn’t have to be on a Big Green Egg, but open flame above wood or charcoal is fine with me.

I recently picked up a little portable Kingsford steel barbecue at a yard sale. It’s perfect for augmenting the Egg at home when we need a little more cooking space, plus it will work nicely on such camping excursions as our trips to the lake.

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Todd also notes that in both home and business line cases, the customer must have GOOD RELIABLE INTERNET SERVICE in order to utilize Canquest’s VoIP network.

Their customers still use their existing residential phone(s) and for businesses their existing phone system.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 12

Business

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Wednesday, August 5, 2015 • Al Baker of United Christian Broadcasting Radio, Chatham office, will be giving a presentation, talk and q&a at The Spirit & Life Centre (St. Joe’s Hall) on Wellington St. W., in Chatham. Snacks provided.

7:00pm-9:00pm. Free Admission.

Thursday, August 6, 2015 • Join us at the Chatham Branch of the CKPL from 6:30pm-7:30pm to meet local author Cassandra Nywening. For more info please contact your local branch.

Friday, August 7, 2015 • Kingsville Folk Music Festival, August 7-9 at Lakeside Park in Kingsville, ON. www.kingvillefolkfest.org.

• Meal and fun darts at The Chatham Legion, William & Colborne St., Chatham. Dinner at 5:30pm7:00pm. Choice of chicken parmesan, roast beef or fish & chips for $8.00. One meat draw. Open darts at 7:30pm.

Saturday, August 8, 2015 • Meat draw and dance at The Chatham Legion, William & Colborne St., Chatham. Meat draws from 4:00pm-6:00pm. Dance from 4:30pm-9:30pm featuring L.U.E.Y. Everyone Welcome.

• 79th Annual Municipality of Chatham-Kent Plowing Match. 8183 Eleventh Line, Charing Cross.

Sunday, August 9, 2015 • Annual Broasted Chicken Dinner at the Spirit and Life Centre (180 Wellington St. W., Chatham). Meal from 4:00pm-6:30pm. Tickets are $16.50 for ages 10 and over. Tickets available at the church office or by calling Geraldine at 519-360-1656 or Beth at 519-352-5093. Proceeds will go towards renovating the Spirit and Life Centre.

• Dresden Christian Ministerial Association presents Sunday Evening in the Park. 7:00pm at Jackson Park, Dresden.

Monday, August 10, 2015 • The Chatham-Kent Film Group is presenting the film “The Water Diviner” starring Russell Crowe.

This will be subject to change. There will be one showing at 7:00pm (door open at 6:15pm) at the Capitol Theatre. This film will cost only $5 admission except if you purchase a 2105-2016 season’s pass it is free. For more info call 519-359-8455.

Wednesday, August 12, 2015 • Fun Darts at The Chatham Legion, William & Colborne St., Chatham starting at 7:30pm for open darts. Everyone Welcome.

Thursday, August 13, 2015 • Ridgetown OEYC presents: Family Board Game Day! 180 Main St. E., Ridgetown. 10:00am12:00pm. No Registration.

Friday, August 14, 2015 • August 14/15 - The Mitchell’s Bay Area Association will host the “Mitchell’s Bay Open” Bass Tournament. $500 entry fee per boat. Guaranteed 1st prize of $5000. Registration packages and rules available at Mitchell’s Bay Marine Park or online at www.mitchellsbayopen.com and www.bigfatbass. com.

• The Foundation of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) will host its 10th Annual Pro/Am Golf Tournament at Maple City Country Club in Chatham. Proceeds from the tournament will support the CKHA’s $6.9 million CKHA Diagnostic Imaging Equipment Renewal Campaign. Individual golfers $325. Foursomes $1300. For more information and to register, please contact the Foundation of CKHA at 519-436-2538. Event details at www. foundationckha.com • Meal and darts at The Chatham Legion, William & Colborne St., Chatham. Dinner from 5:30pm 7:00pm. Choice of pork medallions, roast beef or fish & chips for $8.00. One meat draw. Open darts at 7:30pm. Everyone Welcome.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

Investing in past, future

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

The Kent 1874 is a family affair.

The two couples who own the banquet and music hall in Chatham share blood – as a brother and sister are involved.

Stephen and Stephanie Keating, along with Michael and Melanie Fry, own what is the former Chatham Baptist Church at the corner of Park and William streets. Stephanie and Michael are siblings.

The notion to purchase the church came at a get together at the family cottage in Rondeau. Stephen Keating, a Toronto-based developer, said he is always looking at property to convert for other use.

When he and Michael Fry learned the Chatham Baptist Church was for sale, they were intrigued.

The next thing you know, they had purchased it, and plans were

underway to convert the building, built in 1874, into a much different facility.

The purchase took place a year ago. Renovations, which began back in February, have evolved around retaining as much of the building’s classic features as possible. The large pipe organ remains in the main hall; beautiful stained glass windows let in natural light throughout the building; the grand piano that so many Kiwanis Music Festival students have used over the years remains a key feature; and the raised dais that used to be home to the minister and choir on Sundays is now a stage of sorts.

The developers have also made many upgrades. The washrooms are larger, most floors have been resurfaced, and a drop ceiling has been removed to showcase several original architectural features.

Continued on page 13

Saturday, August 15, 2015 • Meat draw and dance at The Chatham Legion, William & Colborne St., Chatham. Meat draw from 4:00pm6:00pm. Dance from 4:30pm to 9:30pm featuring Unity.

CHAP Volunteer DRIVERS Needed for Chatham-Kent. CHAP helps Seniors live independently at home! Drive seniors to appointments, groceries, banking, etc. in Chatham-Kent. Contact Marjorie for further info CHAP 519-354-6221 ext. 241.

Chatham-Kent Metal Detecting Club Meetings Last Thursday of the Month, 7:00pm at Evangel Community Church, 76 Sandy St., enter at the back door. Guests Welcome.

Toastmasters is a place where you develop and grow - both personally and professionally. Meetings are a learn-by-doing workshop in which participants hone their speaking and leadership skills in a no-pressure atmosphere. Guests are always welcome. Join the Chatham-Kent Toastmasters at Green Field Ethanol, 275 Bloomfield Road on Mondays from 6:30 – 8:00pm.

Don’t leave home without us...

Small pets welcome

Royal Canadian Air Cadets 294 (Kinsmen) Squadron is looking for new members. If you are between 12 and 18 years of age and have an interest in aviation, camping or just meeting new friends visit us any Monday at 6:30pm at the Chatham Armoury 280 Bloomfield Rd in Chatham. Contact us at 519-352-7090.

What do chalk, mud, pool noodles, snakes and ladders, sandpaper and Minecraft all have in common? They are all part of CKPL’s Totally Terrific Tuesdays! Join us each Tuesday at 6:00 pm all summer long in the Chatham Branch, Children’s Room for fun! All ages are welcome and no registration is required. Come and see what fabulous activities are waiting for you!

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

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

PAGE 13

Business

Why Have This When You Can Have This!

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Michael Fry and Stephen Keating, who with their wives are the owners of The Kent 1874, are about to showcase to the public their months of hard work at the former Chatham Baptist Church. The couples have turned the facility into a premier events hall.

The Kent 1874

Couples transform Baptist church into an event hall, retaining rich decor Continued from page 12

Keating and Fry believe in the buy local, shop local mantra, as they used local suppliers and contractors for their renovation efforts.

Walking into what used to be the church hall, which housed luncheons and other functions over the years, you are greeted by a much warmer atmosphere. Gone is the tile floor and drop ceiling and fluorescent lighting. In their place is wood flooring, a high ceiling complete with fine metalwork at the top of each support pillar, and warm light fixtures.

It is but one example of the changes made at The Kent.

But the big one is the use of the building.

The Keatings and Frys can’t wait to rent the facility out for weddings and other events, but they also have ideas of their own, revolving around music, food, and good times.

“I would love to see us bring local music to life,” Fry said.

Keating agreed.

“What we’re going to be creating is a music series. We’d like to have weekly local music and maybe once a month bring in a Canadian headliner,” he said, adding it would have to be someone who would appreciate playing an intimate venue with “amazing acoustics.”

The owners have asked Alysson Storey to help out with marketing and promotions.

“Alysson has amazing experience working abroad in arts and culture,” Keating said.

Storey sees The Kent as a magnet for music and entertainment.

“This fits a unique niche.

We’re a private hall, which allows us some nice flexibility,” she said.

People have already approached the owners about booking the hall for weddings, a book signing, and even an album release party.

Variety is said to be the spice of life, and it appears the owners of The Kent hope to see such spice occupy their building. They want to host culinary events, a craft beer evening, and art shows, along with the weddings, anniversary parties, and live music events.

“We just want to bring in some exciting entertainment and some great culture,” Keating said. “Culture doesn’t need to be a snooty word.”

Fry agreed. They hope their special events draw people back again and again.

“I’d like to see this on everybody’s ‘date night’ list,” he said.

The hall gets busy this week, starting Thursday, when musician Rob Mitchell performs at a private function.

On Friday, the Frys and Keatings host an invite-only grand opening.

And on Saturday, they open the doors to the public, holding an open house from noon until 5 p.m.

They look at the event as a chance for the public to come and see the work they have put

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into the place, but also as a pre-Beach Boys party, as the original boys of summer are playing in Tecumseh Park that evening.

The Beach Boys concert is a fundraiser for the Rotary Club and its commitment to the Chatham-Kent Hospice.

The Frys and Keatings are holding a raffle at their afternoon gathering, where all proceeds will also go to support the hospice.

Up for grabs are such things as Beach Boys albums – signed by the band.

Chatham

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334 King St. W., Chatham

519-352-1600

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Your ga ming destinat ion!

Tap to play Taptix

with additional

give-a-ways!

Come on in and have some real fun!

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497 Riverview Drive, Chatham 519.351.3232 |www.riverviewbingopalace.ca

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 14

Fun Stuff 28 Surmise 30 Macabre author 33 Easy task comparison 36 Central German city 37 Soap opera extra, often 38 Beat 39 Advertising award 40 Dog’s doc 41 Golfer Ernie

ACROSS 1 Legislation 4 Cooking-spray brand 7 Hint 8 Overseas money 10 Plant life 11 Psychological injury 13 Easy task comparison 16 Toss in

What is missing on this puzzle page. . . . ?

17 Grant’s successor 18 Letter after pi 19 Phone inventor 20 Mulligan, e.g.

21 Dodge 23 Magnetic induction unit 25 Unescorted 26 Cartoonist Goldberg 27 Branch

DOWN 1 Frank - Wright 2 Emanation 3 Newscast segment 4 Blender setting 5 Large part of Al-Jazeera’s audience 6 Small grimace 7 Dressed (in) 8- alcohol 9 Stings 10 Rx watchdog org.

12 Liniment targets 14 Converse 15 Explanation 19 Huge 20 Take to court

THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

21 Sucker 22 Shakespeare title role 23 Spew like Old Faithful 24 “Perfect attendance” spoiler 25 Witnessed 26 So old it’s new again 28 Greedy kid’s demand 29 Inappropriate 30 Hilton heiress 31 Roughly 32 - out a living 34 Ukraine’s capital 35 Yank

Visit our website daily for the latest news! www. chathamvoice. com

YOU!

Let Us Be Your Voice!

519-397-2020

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

CLASSIFIEDS Special Thanks

Guenther Ruediger and family would like to send out a thank you to all who offered prayers, gifts and donations following the death of his wife Eileen. A special thank you to the staff at McKinlay Funeral Home, the Chatham-Kent Police Service, Pastor Murray, and the ladies guild of Our Saviors Lutheran Church.

And lastly, a very special thank you to the 4 west staff at Riverview Gardens for the care and attention they gave Eileen during her stay there.

Stylist Wanted

Licenced hair stylist chair rental available at Ridgetown’s newest salon.

Contact Leilani at 226-8811890.

Carpet Cleaning Cleaning Specials! Carpet $25.00 per room. Sectional $40.00. Sofa $30.00. Loveseat $25.00.

Chair $20.00.

Call 519-3587633.

For Sale

Inglis Washer and Dryer top loading, white, excellent condition. $350/pair.

519-352-6734.

Call today to place your ad!

519-397-2020!

Tree Care

PAGE 15

Come to our new pool

HOW TO PLACE YOUR AD IN PERSON: 84 DOVER ST. #2,

FATIMA @CHATHAMVOICE.COM

GRAND OPENING!

Help Wanted

August 8, 2015

CALL: 519-397-2020, EMAIL:

Thank you to the following for making this happen!

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• Trimming & Pruning • Complete Removal • Crane Service 30+ Years Seniors Experience

Discount

519-359-9876

www.customtreeservice.ca

Auctions Online Auction

Maple City Auction Services

Auction starts Sunday, Aug. 9 @ 4pm

Antique Washing Machines, Jewelry, Power Tools, Antique Trunks, Estate Effects, Furniture, Art Glass, Collector Ashtrays and much more!

For more details visit www.maplecityauctionservices.ca or call 519-365-2295

A N K LAVER EN VK V A U C T I O N S I N C. Clearing an Estate, Downsizing, Liquidating Inventory or Decluttering?

We can help. Call to sell your items for cash or by consignment Call John @ 519-845-3663

Routes available in the following areas: King St. W/Crystal Dr Kerr Ave/Warwick Dr. Lark St/Cardinal Cres.

Pheasant Dr/ McNaughton Ave W Oxley Dr/Willowdale Pl. Adelaide St N/ Stanley Ave Park Ave W/Edgar St. Berry St/Mulberry Ct Shawnee Trail/ Cherokee Cres Charing Cross Rd Call Fatima today 519-397-2020 ext.223 or email fatima@chathamvoice.com

519-845-3663 • Wyoming, Ontario • www.vkauctions.ca •

OBITUARIES

Stanley H. Mardling 91, Monday, July 27, 2015 McKinlay Funeral Home

Joseph Johns 95, Monday, July 27, 2015 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Barbara Jean Wardell 67, Sunday, July 26, 2015 McKinlay Funeral Home

Mary Forster 90, Wednesday, July 29, 2015 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Gladys May Tuck 97, Thursday, July 30, 2015 McKinlay Funeral Home

Ken Cottel 58, Tuesday, July 28, 2015 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

David Kenneth Stead Wednesday, July 29, 2015 McKinlay Funeral Home

William “Willy” Ciaciek 57, Tuesday, July 28, 2015 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Rogier Blondeel 89, Sunday, July 26, 2015 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Edythe Kersey 85, Wednesday, July 30, 2015 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Anne Kopriva 84, Monday, July 27, 2015 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

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

See full obituaries at www.chathamvoice.com

245 Wellington St. W., Chatham 519-352-2710

A FAMILY BUSINESS THAT CARES

Wallaceburg

Oungah Grande Point Dresden Bothwell Thamesville

Ridgetown Blenheim

Erieau Pain Court Mitchell’s Bay

Tilbury Highgate Wheatley Chatham

60 Stanley Street, Blenheim (519) 676 – 9200 blenheimcommunityfuneralhome.com

PRIVATE DONORS Fr. Jim Williams bequest Anonymous x2 Cathy Bachynski Robert and Brigitta Falconer Jeanine Foulon Deanna Borovic Joanne Neilson Jim and Barb Cooper Heather McCann Daniel Falconer Kevin O’Rourke Hessie Byma Mary Ann O’Rourke Jeff Edmondson Judith Bouchard Joe & Brenda Kormendy

Pick us up!

alexanderfuneralhome.ca

FUNERAL HOME

ASSOCIATION DONORS Thamesville La Sertoma Chatham Kent Community Partnership fund Ontario Regional council SSVP Ursuline Sisters St. Vincent de Paul PC Ottawa St. Vincent de Paul PC London St. Michael’s conference Ridgetown Holy Rosary CWL

If we have missed you, we apologize, but we remain grateful for your donation and contribution to right the wrong.

Come let us thank you in person and see the finished product.

We will have a cheque presentation and dedication ceremony and tree planting on Sat. Aug. 8 from 11a.m.-2p.m.

11a.m. - cheque presentation Hydro One. 12p.m. - dedication of pool and dining hall followed by tree planting Luncheon will be available - ALL WELCOME

Merlin

Hinnegan-Peseski 156 William St., Chatham 519.352.5120 www.peseski.com

BUSINESS DONORS Hydro One Entegrus Quality Pools Fox Pools The Shock Doctor Water Boy Simpson’s Fence Alexander Houle North Kent Mutual Baelda Holding Ltd. Paragon Pools Dig R Right Mrs. Sandra Verkaik QPS Heating and Cooling

Charing Cross

Shoppers Drug Mart 99.1CKXS Taylor’s Variety Black Goose No Frills C-K Library Wallaceburg Career Centre McB’s Restaurant Jo’s Diner JMHI Insurance C-K Library JMHI Insurance C-K Library Mac’s Milk Park’s Bluberries Mary’s Restaurant Country Cuts C-K Library Community Futures C-K Library McIntyre I.D.A. Pharmacy Gord’s Barber Shop More Than TZ Bayside Brewery Eau Buoy Pain Court Market Mitchell’s Bay Variety

Dover Duds C-K Library Erie Café and Variety C-K Library C-K Library C-K Library Dutch Marke C-K Library Downtown Chatham Centre Legion Branch 628 Legion Branch 28 Maple City Bakery Economic Development Office Young’s Variety Active Lifestyle Centre 4 Corner’s Restaurant Post Office/Bert’s Plumbing

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 16

THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2015

Time passes, things change.

Let us be there for your mom just as she’s always been there for you.

Call today for more information.

Or visit: oaksretirementvillage.ca

NOW OPEN Call today!

80 McNaughton Avenue Wallaceburg, ON Managed by Seasons Retirement Communities

Call 519.627.9292