The Chatham Voice, Feb. 20, 2025 by Chatham Voice

RE-ELECT

Tariff threat pulling Canadians together

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

As U.S. President Donald Trump seemingly pulls out new and mutually damaging economic platforms on a weekly basis, local business experts are left scratching their heads. Across-the-board 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods and resources entering the U.S. are on temporary hold, but he recently announced plans to add tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum. This was attempted when Trump was in power in 2018 and it cost the U.S. economy billions.

Stuart McFadden, Chatham-Kent’s director of economic development, said there seems to be little reasoning behind what Trump is doing.

competitiveness, and ultimately increase consumer prices at a time when Canadians and Americans are both struggling with significant affordability challenges,” Stephen Tapp, chief economist at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, said in a media release.

Chatham-Kent is heavily tied to cross-border trade. Upwards of 1,000 jobs in C-K are connected to such trade, experts said.

“It’s unjustified. There’s nothing about this (tariffs) that makes sense. Canada and the U.S. have had a great relationship for many years. Both countries prosper from it.”

- C-K’s Stuart McFadden

“Every day you wake up and wonder what he’s going to talk about and what the impact will be,” McFadden said. “It’s unjustified. There’s nothing about this (tariffs) that makes sense. Canada and the U.S. have had a great relationship for many years. Both countries prosper from it.”

McFadden said tariffs hinder business on both sides of the border.

He’s not alone in that mindset.

“Tariffs are a lose-lose. They would raise business costs, reduce North America’s international

“Chatham-Kent is deeply connected to the U.S. economy, as are so many communities across Ontario and Canada,” said Rory Ring, president of the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce. “Disrupting this vital trade relationship through tariffs would have serious consequences. It’s not just about the big numbers; it’s about the jobs, businesses, and families here in Chatham-Kent that depend on cross-border trade. We need to strengthen, not break, these mutually beneficial ties to ensure a prosperous future for both our community and our trading partners.”

Trump has indicated he doesn’t need Canadian resources. McFadden begs to differ. Canadian lumber could help rebuild thousands of homes in Los Angeles in the wake of the wildfires.

Continued on page 3

C-K council looks to shed 3

Ward boundaries to be revamped, council number to go to 15 from 18

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

For the first time since amalgamation in 1998, Chatham-Kent’s municipal boundaries are changing.

Effective at the next municipal election in 2026, the municipality’s ward boundaries will be reconfigured.

Along with that, the number of councillors, including a mayor, will drop from 18 to 15.

Approved by council at the Feb. 10 meeting, the new scheme features eight wards, instead of the current six.

Ward 1 (West Kent) is the largest area geographically and representation stays the same with two elected councillors.

Ward 2 (South Kent) will see its representation drop to two councillors from three.

Ward 5 (Wallaceburg) will also continue with two councillors.

However, Ward 4 (North Kent) and Ward 3 (East Kent) will only have one councillor each, down from two.

Chatham, instead of being a single ward, will be divided into Wards 6, 7 and 8, with each ward electing two councillors apiece. Ward 8 will extend south to Highway 401.

Council approved the move in a 14 to 4 vote, with councillors Morena McDonald, Trevor Thompson, Aaron Hall, and Anthony Ceccacci voting against.

Sabine Matheson of StrategyCorp, the consulting firm hired to examine the issue and come up with solutions, presented council with two different options for a revamped Chatham-Kent, as well as a status quo option with adjusted borders.

In her presentation, Matheson explained each option thoroughly, noting StrategyCorp’s goal was to meet the “effective representation test,” creating a more even playing field for all C-K residents when they elect the next council.

According to Matheson, the options presented came as a result of many revisions, prompt-

ed by input from the public and council.

Geography and natural dividing lines were considered, she said, including using Hwy. 401 as a dividing line in the south part of the municipality, rather than the Thames River. Matheson said future population growth in each ward was also factored in.

The third-party review of C-K’s ward system and council composition kicked off in May 2024 following a motion from North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville. But it’s an idea that’s been floated unsuccessfully by previous councillors in the past. Other amendments were brought to the floor.

A bid by West Kent Coun. Melissa Harrigan to make Chatham an “at-large” ward, rather than divide it into three wards, was narrowly defeated in a 9-9 vote.

However, an amend-

‘Buy local, buy Canadian’

Continued from page 2

More than half of the petroleum the U.S. imports comes from Canada. And Canada provides electricity to millions of Americans.

One good thing coming out of all the economic sabre rattling Trump is doing is uniting Canadians.

“It’s causing us to rethink

things, about being more self-sufficient,” McFadden said. “What we can do is buy local, buy Canadian and buy Ontarian,” he said. “Everyone gets buying local as a positive. You support your neighbour, your community, your province. I don’t believe Amazon sponsors a hockey team or a soccer

team in Chatham-Kent.”

The economic threats could lead to more inter provincial trade, and increased trade to other nations.

“We have trade agreements with 70 countries. We need to look at those agreements to reduce our reliance on the Americans,” McFadden said.

Attempted murder charge after late night stabbing in Chatham

The Chatham Voice

A Chatham man faces attempted murder charges following an early morning altercation in Chatham on Monday.

Police got the call about 2:15 a.m. to Grand Avenue East in Chatham, answering a report

that two men were fighting. Officers found a man bleeding profusely from stab wounds. He was taken to hospital.

Police arrested a suspect at the scene.

A 30-year-old Chatham man is charged with attempted murder.

ment by North Kent Coun. Jamie McGrail to align Mitchell’s Bay with North Kent, rather than looping it in with Wallaceburg’s ward was approved, utilizing Electric Line as Ward 4’s south border, instead of Marsh Line.

Mayor Darrin Canniff voiced his appreciation to his fellow council members for moving ahead, calling it a “major change” that’s been brewing for

a number of years “I want to congratulate everyone,” the mayor said.

A bylaw enshrining the changes will be brought back for council’s approval in March.

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent was created in 1998 when the Mike Harris government forced 22 Kent County townships, villages and the City of Chatham to merge into a single-tier government.

Police are asking if anyone has video footage of the altercation to please contact them.

Det. Dan Hamilton is the lead investigator and he can be reached at 519-436-6600 ext. 80284 or danha@chatham-Kent.ca.

20% of C-K families endure food insecurity

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

At least one in five families in Chatham-Kent suffer through food insecurity, and the board of health is lobbying the premier to support basic income guarantee legislation.

Dr. Shanker Nesathurai, medical officer of health for Chatham-Kent, said one’s finances are directly tied to one’s health.

is for people to thrive,” he said.

Balakrishnan said the system is letting people down.

“Current social assistance programs are inadequate,” she said, adding food banks are not the answer over the long haul. “Foodbased programs are not a longterm solution for food insecurity.”

Public Health personnel surveyed six different grocery stores across Chatham-Kent in 2024 to see how much it costs to put healthy food on the table.

Trust& Care

“Poverty is adverse to individuals, families and communities in terms of health,” he said. “Addressing poverty is one lever we can pull when advancing health in our communities.”

Sharmini Balakrishnan, public health nutritionist, said food insecurity is “when people worry about running out of food or they compromise the nutritious quality of the food.”

Having to choose between paying the rent, keeping the heat on, or eating nutrition-rich meals leaves people short.

Nesathurai said poverty is, as a result, heavily tied to one’s health. And it can go beyond food.

“It’s also about social disadvantage. Poverty is associated with inadequate opportunities for education, access to housing, and health care,” he said. “Inadequate income affects life expectancy, and we see higher incidents of diabetes and heart disease.”

He added statistics also indicate higher incidents of infant mortality, poor mental health, increased chance of cancer, and even asthma.

“Poverty leads to family stress,” he said. “Poor health can lead to poverty just as poverty can lead to poor health.”

Nesathurai said Public Health officials want people to experience wellness.

“Our goal at Public Health is not just for people to survive. Our goal

For a family of four, that number was $1,147per month. A single parent with two children would need $853, and a single adult would require $402, according to health officials.

For people on Ontario Works, that means little funds left over after food and rent for other necessities, or being in an outright deficit if you are a single person on Ontario Works and living on your own. Such a person is $301 short, according to Public Health figures, each month just trying to feed themselves and put a roof over their head.

For a family of four, after food and rent, there is about $700 left over for other necessities. For a single parent with two children, that drops to $639.

Carmen McGregor, chair of the Chatham-Kent Food Policy Council, said food insecurity is a national issue.

“In Canada, a staggering 70 per cent of households relying on social assistance are experiencing food insecurity,” she said.

“An adequate and secure income is a crucial solution to reduce these rates.”

The board of health approved sending a letter to the premier’s office seeking support for a basic income guarantee for Ontario residents.

Contributed image

Dr Shanker Nesathurai, acting medical officer of health for CK Public Health, and Sharmini Balakrishnan, CK public health nutritionist, showcase a basket of food containing some of the items included in the Nutritious Food Basket, a survey used by public health units in Ontario to monitor the affordability of a nutritious diet based on the 2019 Canada’s Food Guide.

KFA helps stock the shelves

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Local farmers flexed their community roots recently, donating fresh produce and frozen meat to local food banks in celebration of Canada Ag Day.

Members of the Kent Federation of Agriculture dropped off cheques and produce at the Salvation Army Church on Orangewood Boulevard in Chatham on Feb. 11, benefitting Outreach for Hunger and the Salvation Army.

It’s a tradition that’s been taking place for two decades.

Paul Stratton, business manager for the Salvation Army in Chatham-Kent, said the KFA aid is greatly appreciated.

“It is great support at this time of the year. Produce is not readily donated to us by other people. It’s nice for the farmers to come together and do that,” he said. “Our clients love fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s a great thing. We have lots of stuff with preservatives, but a lot of our clients would rather have fresh.”

Brenda LeClair, executive director of Outreach for Hunger, said she loves Canada Ag Day.

“I’m always excited when this day rolls around. Coming from an agricultural background myself, I recognize the importance

of agriculture to our community. It’s wonderful to recognize that they are supporting people who also need it,” she said of the KFA donating to the food banks. “We couldn’t feed our families if we didn’t have events like this. We rely on the charity of the community.”

Brad Snobelen, co-chair of the Ag Day committee within the KFA, said KFA members stepped up, as they have in the past.

“The community has really supported us, it’s been amazing,” he said. “We probably have around 40 partners that donate monetarily, and probably another 20 or 30 that support with in-kind product.”

Snobelen said when the KFA asks, farmers support.

With more than 70 different crops grown in Chatham-Kent, the options are diverse.

As diverse as they are, delivery for the food banks is even more widespread.

“The big thing is it is not just this one day. This is a day we go and solicit donations. But our donations go on throughout the year,” Snobelen said in a recent interview.

Included in that is the purchase and delivery of ground beef, he added.

Stratton said the meat donation

is well received.

“Meat is very rarely donated, unless it is canned, and we’re happy for that, but it’s nice to have fresh,” he said. The need is only growing.

“Even though there may be more people helping people out, every given day, there’s a lot of people going into Raleigh Street (the Salvation Army’s Chatham food bank location) and they’re taking what we have to offer,” Stratton said.

Key issues

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Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

From left, Kent Federation of Agriculture Jim Brackett, past-president Brad Snobelen, Outreach for Hunger executive director Brenda LeClair and Salvation Army business manager Paul Stratton celebrate donations made by KFA members to the local food banks as part of Canada Ag Day recognition efforts in Chatham on Feb. 11.

Opinion

Attack the issues

There’s a growing and disturbing double standard that cannot continue unchecked.

We’re talking about how traditional media outlets are rightly held to account while social media platforms and their users can seemingly run amok unchecked in terms of distributing inaccurate information and defamatory statements about individuals.

Sometimes, such statements are downright criminal.

Proponents of the move say it removes a level of what they term censorship. Opponents counter with concerns over the spread of hate speech.

It is fatiguing to scroll through social media these days. It’s not so much about seeing differing political opinions, but rather the vitriol and personal attacks that plague the online world.

Print inaccurate information? A Canadian newspaper, if it does not correct the issue, can see the matter taken to the National NewsMedia Council, which serves as a forum for complaints against its members and to promote ethical practices within the news media industry.

An escalated matter could appear before the civil courts.

On social media, there is little, if any, regulatory oversight. People have the mindset they can share anything they want, regardless of accuracy or potential for defamation of individuals.

And it is getting worse.

Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg recently announced the platform, as well as Instagram, will no longer use independent fact checkers, replacing them with X-style “community notes” where commenting on the accuracy of posts is left to users. For now, the change is confined to the U.S.

The same platform that has banned Canadian news stories from appearing on its site – unless sponsored – is giving more freedom to the proliferation of online disinformation.

For example, on Facebook recently, a local individual reposted a rather libellous meme that said one potential federal Canadian Liberal leader, a woman, was an “expensive hooker.” Another, also a woman, was labelled a “corrupt foreigner.”

If something like that were to appear in traditional media, regardless of who was the subject, lawyers would instantly become involved.

But such trolling is all too commonplace on social media. People who should know better are all too quick to click “share.” If you think because you said it online that means you are insulated, think again.

“Negative statements about people or companies appear frequently on social media sites, such as X and Facebook. If they are false statements of fact, they can be considered defamation in some circumstances, or more specifically libel because they are written statements,” according to the legal site justica.com.

There is no place for hate speech and defamation anywhere. Attack the issue, not the individual. Lord knows, there is plenty of factual fodder to utilize, regardless of political stripe.

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Reel in the spending in by the municipality

Editor: The mayor of Chatham-Kent wants Canadian citizens to step up. As a taxpayer of Chatham, I expect the mayor and council to step up also by cancelling all large expenditures that really are not required at this time, like the $57 million Community Hub.

It is a duplication of existing infrastructure.

The grandiose idea of new and better has to

be put on hold if these tariffs come in. Already the coffee shop talk is perhaps, with the mayor’s own words, step up and hold back to keep taxes low might be in order.

Or will the new mayor next year will be in line with saving the taxpayers money in 2026?

I for one don’t believe that, in such a small

community, money should be spent for the sake of spending money. But then again if this project continues during a financial crisis of tariffs, a higher government authority might want to intervene to make everybody happy.

Wayne Robertson Chatham

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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

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and clarity. All letters need to be signed.

Problems in the ivory tower: reader

Editor: Wow! I am absolutely amazed by how those in power in Chatham-Kent can build kingdoms, while hiding their activities behind a “privacy” wall. If council can reduce their numbers from 17 to 14 because the suggestion had been made, why did they not do this years ago?

In fact, if they can volunteer to reduce their numbers by three, perhaps they should reduce the number by seven or maybe eight?

Perhaps an audit should be done to figure out how many people are doing the same jobs, while the higher ups are out golf-

ing? I am thinking we can reduce the numbers by at least half.

It seems to me that taxpayers should be entitled to know where and when their money is being spent, and not have everything done behind closed doors so the taxpayer does not know what is being done.

I think council has lost touch with the reality of what is happening in Chatham-Kent. Why is it that council is wanting to spend millions of taxpayer dollars for a new meet-

Election makes little sense

Editor: We do not need a provincial election no matter what spin Premier Doug Ford puts onto it.

However, I wonder if he is running for Premier of Ontario, Prime Minister of Canada or just from the RCMP investigation into the Greenbelt? He presently has a majority in Queen’s Park

and over a year before his term expires. What has he done with our health-care system in Ontario which is in need of doctors and nurses? What has he done to aid our education system in Ontario?

Arnold Schuur Chatham

ing place when there are people losing their homes because they are not able to pay property taxes and put food on the table at the same time?

I am a retired factory worker and do not know how council works, but I think the taxpayers of Chatham-Kent should

fire all council that voted yes on the new council chambers, reduce the amount of pay they are getting (this is rural southwestern Ontario, not downtown Toronto), and put a whole new council into place. Maybe we can get some people to be concerned about the

wellbeing of the taxpayer, instead of themselves.

What is council doing about the homeless encampments in our area? I think they are doing nothing because they are too busy taking care of the higher ups. What does council think it means, that all

the outlying areas of Chatham-Kent want to go to other counties? I think it means there is something rotten going on in Chatham-Kent, and they want out before it all collapses.

Glen Spooner Chatham

Friendship gathering is back

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

pamwrightlji@gmail.com

The boys are back with the sixth rendition of the Friends of Chatham gathering.

To be held at Chatham’s KBD Club March 8, the event is again welcom-

ing Chathamites from far and wide to come and celebrate life with old and new friends.

The gathering is also a fundraiser for Chatham-Kent Hospice.

“We’re hoping for another successful year,” said Mike Dorner, who along with Howie Morton and

Ray O’Phee, put the idea together. The three old friends kept running into each at funerals and celebrations of life of other friends and acquaintances. They decided they’d like to meet up at least once a year on a positive note, and the Friends of Chatham gathering was born.

It’s still going strong, and Dorner said the trio wants to “keep on doing it as long as we can.”

There’s no cover charge for the gathering. Instead, organizers collect donations for the Chatham-Kent Hospice, and have raised $50,000 for the organization to date. While providing a space for friendship, the event also serves to commemorate those who have passed on. A moment of silence will be held at 4 p.m. to honour those who have passed away. The event begins at noon and will run until the party’s over. Along with a cash bar and food from the KBD kitchen, there will be raffle prizes and music with at least five live bands performing.

Chatham Voice file photo

Howie Morton, Mike Dorner and Ray O’Phee are back at it March 8 with their Friends of Chatham Gathering to be held at the KBD Club on Byng Avenue. The sixth-annual rendition of this event is held to bring old and new friends together and raise funds for the Chatham-Kent Hospice.

Home sales brisk

Winter’s chill may have us in its grasp, but home sales in Chatham-Kent are hot.

The Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors (CKAR), report that sales in January were up nearly 34 per cent from January of 2024.

Eighty-seven units changed hands last month.

Home sales were 1.2 per cent above the five-year average and 12.5 per cent above the 10-year average for the month of January.

Barbara McCaughrin, president of CKAR, said it is good news all around.

“Sales roared back from December, surpassing the long-term January averages in a strong rebound,” she said in a media release. “New listings saw a modest rise but remained well above typical levels, more than doubling the number of sales. Yet despite this influx, overall inventory barely budged, remaining well above normal for this time of year.”

Home prices are up as well.

“Prices climbed yearover year, hitting their highest monthly average since summer 2023,” McCaughrin said. “With market conditions holding steady in balanced territory, the stage is set

for an interesting few months ahead.”

The average price of homes sold in January 2025 was $464,769, a gain

of nearly 16 per cent from January 2024.

The dollar value of all home sales in January 2025 was $40.4 mil-

lion, an increase of 55.2 per cent from the same month in 2024.

McCaughrin tempered the enthusiasm from the

hot January with the fact U.S. tariffs could have a profound impact on Chatham-Kent’s economy.

Continued on page 11

The Chatham Voice

C-K to re-examine Clearville

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Instead of selling off Clearville Park as recommended in the last budget, Chatham-Kent is taking another look at future prospects for the Lake Erie property.

At the Feb. 10 meeting, council passed a motion from East Kent Coun. John Wright directing staff to examine ways the municipality could continue to own the property, including financial recovery (full and partial) and divestment options, with a report to come back to council in the fall. It also directs administration to assess the 40-acre woodlot located at Clearville and to ensure the public and community are informed going forward.

Council also approved an amendment from South Kent Coun. Trevor Thompson directing staff to liaise with the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority in coming months to explore the possibility of the agency taking over ownership and operation of the land.

Prior to the decision, council heard several deputations, imploring council not to sell the property.

Susanne Spence-Wilkins, owner of Crazy 8 Barn & Garden at Palmyra, told council that the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) – one of Canada’s leading conservation groups – has expressed interest in purchasing the land to conserve it.

According to Spence-Wilkins, a seventh generation C-K resident, who can see the lake from her house, NCC had no idea the land was for sale.

Spence-Wilkins pointed out the property has been let go. Public washrooms at the site have been boarded up, she said, noting there’s only a port-ajohn available.

“I think we can all agree that Clearville Park is not being managed with a vision for sustainability and vitality,” she added. “We need to work together to make that happen rather than sell public space that benefits the many.

“It’s a rough-cut gem that could become a shiny jewel for the residents and tourists alike,” Spence-Wilkins told council, noting free access to the lake should be maintained.

In his deputation, Jim Griffin of the Chatham-Kent Heritage Network, expounded on the park’s historical significance, reaching back to the War of 1812. He said the network is marking Clearville with a historical plaque later this year, noting the site was once a bustling community dating back to the early 1800s.

“We hope that Clearville Park doesn’t become another casualty of development,” Griffin told council.

Wright said he was grateful for the way the public has stepped up to defend Clearville.

“They really hit it really good on how important

this park is to the community,” the councillor said.

Clearville Park Includes a park area, about 120 trailers (some permanent, some seasonal) and about 40 acres of woods.

It’s located about a kilometre from the Clear Creek Forest Provincial Park, which is under the management of Rondeau Provincial Park.

Clear Creek was purchased by the Nature Conservancy of Canada in order to protect rare species found in the Carolinian forest habitat that’s part of Clearville.

Wright explained that four years ago the municipality engaged in talks with the LTVCA and held community meetings, but the effort was derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We lost our contact at that point,” he said. “At this time, I’d like to see what the Lower Thames says before we move forward. It is an important, valuable piece of property.”

In speaking to the motion, West Kent Coun.

Melissa Harrigan pointed out that the estimates of capital costs in the next 10 years are more than $4 million and that was a concern during budget deliberations.

“There’s a hundred folks camping at Clearville,” Harrigan said. “That’s a lot of money to put on the backs of people who are seasonal there.”

However, the councillor said that because there is public access to the lake, the tax burden should be

New home listings up

Continued from page 10 “Given the region’s significant agricultural and automotive sectors, these tariffs will almost certainly impact job security, and by extension cause home buyers to reassess their options,” she said.

The number of new listings rose seven per cent compared to January 2024. Those new listings were 24.3 per cent above the five-year average and 38.7 per cent above the 10-year average for the month of January.

shared, adding that pausing the process to investigate is a “very sage” decision to make.

CAO Michael Duben said the decision was made during budget deliberations, noting that any fur-

ther decisions about the park had to come to council first before going to the public.

Winter Line, Pain Court

Active residential listings numbered 369 units on the market at the end of January, an increase of 18.6 per cent from the end of January 2024. Active listings haven’t been this high in the month of January in more than five years.

C-K to help pay to close a dump

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Chatham-Kent is on the hook for $361,240 as part of its payment portion to

close the Limerick Road Landfill in Southwest Middlesex.

The bill comes on the heels of a decision by the provincial Ministry of Conservation, Environ-

ment and Parks to close the facility, located approximately seven kilometres from Bothwell. Council approved the spending at its Feb. 10 meeting. The money will

come from reserves, as it was not forecast in the budget.

Further costs will be imposed on C-K in the future to help pay for ongoing environmental monitor-

ing, prompting a decision by council to create a reserve to address the cost of such monitoring that will continue for at least 25 years.

When questioned by councillors Alysson Storey and Anthony Ceccacci about the lack of preparation for the funding request, C-K’s general manager of infrastructure and engineering said the municipality only learned about the costs late in 2024. According to Edward Soldo, Southwest Middlesex is the administrator in charge, which leaves C-K out of the decision-making process.

ed a method for calculating each community’s financial contribution.

Chatham-Kent is responsible for 43 per cent of the monitoring costs going forward.

“If we were to area-rate this cost to the former community of Zone and Bothwell, including both the onetime capital and the ongoing monitoring, it would be about $1,200 per property.”

- C-K’s Steve Brown

“It’s their responsibility to fulfill the environmental order,” Soldo explained, noting Southwest Middlesex will be leading the monitoring phase as well.

The 6.27-hectare landfill was commissioned by the former Mosa Township in 1968, receiving waste from Township of Mosa, Bothwell, Wardsville, and Newbury, with Zone Township signing on in 1971 after its landfill closed.

In 1992, an agreement was signed by all five communities to contribute financially to the landfill’s eventual closure.

With amalgamation, Chatham-Kent inherited the agreement, which includ-

According to a staff report, curbside pickup and recycling began in Bothwell village in 2005. In 2018, the province ordered Limerick landfill to be closed. The work was tendered in 2024 and is expected to be completed later this year. In his comments, Ceccacci raised the spectre of C-K’s communities –including Bothwell-Zone – seeking to de-amalgamate from Chatham-Kent.

Ceccacci asked Steve Brown, C-K’s director of budget and performance services, what the landfill closure would have cost Bothwell-Zone residents if the Limerick landfill closure was area-rated.

“If we were to area-rate this cost to the former community of Zone and Bothwell, including both the one-time capital and the ongoing monitoring, it would be about $1,200 per property,” Brown said, adding that if every C-K resident pays it is about $28.

“So, there is significant cost savings to this when it goes through the entire community,” Ceccacci said.

St. Agnes School to be razed Future home for housing projects

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

pamwrightlji@gmail.com

St. Agnes School in Chatham is coming down.

The former Catholic elementary school will be razed by the municipality in order to clear the way for future housing projects.

Council approved the demolition at the Feb. 10 meeting, supporting a recommendation from administration, noting taking down the building, including the gymnasium, will eliminate risks and costs associated with maintaining the structure.

Following a question from North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville, asking if the demolition is connected in anyway with Indwell, council learned the Christian charity is not associated with this latest development.

According to CAO Michael Duben, clearing the property is not part of an Indwell project. However, he said the St. Agnes parcel is one of the properties

Chatham-Kent is making available for supportive housing projects. Duben said a report will be coming to council on the matter later this year.

St. Agnes School was originally purchased by Indwell from the St. Clair Catholic District School Board, which had a supportive housing project planned for the property.

However, a joint funding application by the charity and Chatham-Kent was turned down by the federal government, putting an end to Indwell’s presence in Chatham. The property was subsequently purchased by the municipality.

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

St. Agnes School has gone from hosting young Catholic students to potentially housing some of our homeless, to becoming a pile of rubble. Chatham-Kent council recently voted to take down the building to make way for future housing projects on the Croydon Street property.

Charity grows roots into C-K

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Noelle Paquette’s legacy of kindness and generosity is about to impact Chatham-Kent youngsters in a big way.

Named in honour of the caring Lambton County teacher whose life was tragically cut short in

2013, the bustling charity is formally establishing a Noelle’s Gift to Children chapter in C-K. It will be chaired by Caress Lee, public relations co-ordinator for the Lambton-Kent District School Board, and co-chaired by Leah Cabral, communications supervisor with the St. Clair Catholic District School Board.

Lee, a life-long resident of Chatham-Kent, said that while she had been aware of the charity, she didn’t understand the full scope of what Noelle’s Gift has been accomplishing over the last decade until she began working for the public board.

The organization offers a wide range of programs to help youngsters, includ-

ing a student nutrition program that provides healthy snacks to support student learning.

There’s also the Noelle’s Gift Closet initiative, which stocks schools with essential items.

Schools also have access to emergency funds for daily necessities, and all Grade 1 students receive a Noelle’s Gift water bottle

to promote healthy habits.

The charity also makes funding available for community efforts such as family fun days and other student-focused programs.

“Although I was familiar with Noelle’s Gift to Children before my role with the LKDSB, I never truly understood the depth of its impact,” Lee said in a media release. “It is truly a lifeline for countless families across Chatham-Kent and Sarnia-Lambton, offering support when it’s needed most. The immediate, compassionate help provided to children and families, free from barriers, is nothing short of extraordinary. I am honoured to step into this role and know that the Chatham-Kent community will be supportive of such a vital cause that is helping children across

Chatham-Kent every single day.”

Cabral echoed Lee’s comments.

“Noelle’s Gift to Children touches the lives of students in our schools every day, and I’m thrilled to be part of the team helping to extend that impact in Chatham-Kent,” Cabral stated. “Every child deserves to feel supported and have what they need to thrive, and Noelle’s Gift makes that possible in such a meaningful way.”

Noelle’s Gift is modelled after the educator’s actions when she was an elementary school teacher with the SCCDSB. Paquette would pack an extra lunch each day to give to a hungry child and would also make sure youngsters had the supplies they needed.

Continued on page 15

C-K could buy back idle properties

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Nearly three years after the municipality sold three Bloomfield Business Park lots, Chatham-Kent may be buying them back.

That’s the recommendation coming from administration after three separate companies failed to start construction within the required time period as spelled out in the purchasing agreements with the municipality.

According to a staff report, “due

Event to raise funds for Noelle’s Gift

Continued from page 14

To celebrate the new chapter’s creation, Noelle’s Gift to Children is hosting its first-ever C-K “Light Up the Night for Noelle” spring race. On April 25, participants can take part in a 5K run or walk, or a 1K kid’s race at Mud Creek Trail in Chatham. All proceeds from the

event will remain in Chatham-Kent to be used to support student initiatives.

C-K residents are asked to stay tuned for more details and to spread the word. Follow Noelle’s Gift on social media and visit its website’s events section (https://noellesgift. ca) for upcoming announcements.

to high interest rates and changing markets, the purchasers have failed to secure clients for their proposed warehousing facilities and have been unable to begin construction without secured leases in place.”

The business park parcels were sold in 2022.

If approved, Chatham-Kent will buy back two 2.5-acre

lots for $225,000 each, as well as a three-acre lot for $267,000. What C-K will pay matches the original purchase price.

Also, since these purchases were approved, the municipality has increased the price of an acre of land in the Bloomfield Business Park from $89,000 to $250,000 per acre for interior parcels and

$275,000 per acre for exterior parcels.

The matter was expected to be discussed at the Feb. 10 council meeting, however it was deferred to Feb. 24 following a request from South Kent Coun. Anthony Ceccacci. He said he had received some last-minute questions from a constituent and wanted time to review the matter.

NOTICE OF THE PROPOSED ROAD CLOSING Notice is hereby given that at a meeting of the Council of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent on February 24, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Civic Centre, 315 King Street West, Chatham , Council will consider, and if approved, may pass a by -law to stop up and close part of the road allowance from Wheatley Rd in the community of Tilbury:

• Property Identification Number art of the Road Allowance Between Concessions 6 & 7 (Closed by B Geographic Township of Romney, Municipality of Chatham-Kent, being Parts 2 and 3 of Part of PIN 00830 0039 as depicted in 24R11456

• Property Identification Number 00830 0039, Part of the Road Allowance Between Concessions 6 & 7 (Closed by By-Law R0794) Geographic Township of Romney, Municipality of Chatham-Kent, being Parts 2 and 3 of Part of PIN 00830 0039 as depicted in 24R11456

At this meeting, Council will hear any person or their solicitor or agent, who claims that their land will be prejudicially affected by the by-law and who provide a written submission by email to the Clerk’s office (ckclerk@chatham-kent.ca) by noon on February 24th. For further information, please contact Amy McLellan, Manager, Revenue at 519-360-1998, Ext 3185.

Image courtesy Google Maps

While some elements of the Bloomfield Business Park are thriving, the municipality is looking to buy back a trio of properties where development has been too slow to take place.

Girardi picked to lead LKDSB

The Chatham Voice

Gary Girardi believes that public education is a “cornerstone” of Canadian society.

That’s what the veteran educator had to say following his recent appointment as the Lambton Kent District School Board’s incoming direc-

tor of education.

A long-serving member of the LKBSD, the community advocate brings 25 years of experience to the role he assumes May 1, when current director John Hewitt retires.

In a media release, Girardi stated that access to public education isn’t something he takes for

granted.

“It’s a right for everybody, and I have dedicated my life to ensuring that,” he explained, having held various roles, including teacher, vice-principal, principal, and superintendent of education. In his most recent superintendent role, Girardi focused on ad-

vancing student achievement, equity and community collaboration, while overseeing human resources, safe schools and leadership development.

A child of immigrants who came to Canada after the Second World War, Girardi said his parents instilled in him a

Here are seven ways we should all strive to treat each other every day.

1. Be kind. Treat everyone with kindness and empathy, regardless of how you feel about them. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect, even those you don’t like.

deep appreciation of the transformative power of education.

“I am honoured to begin my work as the director of education for the Lambton Kent District School Board,” Girardi said.

In a statement, LKDSB chair Kelley Robertson acknowledged Girardi’s

passion for education.

“Gary’s wealth of experience, his commitment to community, and his dedication to creating an environment where every student, staff member, and family feels valued make him the ideal leader for the LKDSB,” Robertson said.

In 2007, two boys from Nova Scotia took a stand against local bullies and started a movement. When a classmate in their high school was harassed for wearing a pink shirt on the first day of school, David Shepherd and Travis Price decided to do something about it. The teens bought over 50 pink shirts and handed them out to their classmates, creating a “sea of pink” in support of the boy who’d been bullied. That was the first Pink Shirt Day, an event that has since made its way across the country and is now recognized on the last Wednesday of February every year.

2. Be inclusive. Make it a point to be friendly with everyone you know, even the people who are different from you. You’ll make others feel good and could even make an unexpected friend.

3. Check in. If you know that someone in your life has recently gone through a hard time call or text periodically to make sure they’re doing okay.

4. Listen. Be a sounding board for friends who need to talk. However, don’t offer advice unless they ask for it. Sometimes, people just need to share what they’re going through in order to come up with their own solutions.

5. Think before you speak — or post. Sometimes we

can hurt people without meaning to. Before you say or post something on social media, think about how others may perceive it, and keep your comments to yourself if you think someone might be hurt by them.

6. Don’t gossip. Though it’s easy to get drawn into discussions about other people, these types of conversations are best avoided. Even if what you say isn’t meant to be hurtful, it’s unkind to discuss others without their knowing it.

7. Speak up. If you see someone getting bullied, don’t just stand there and watch. Instead, say something. Most bullying incidents stop within ten seconds of someone intervening. Bullying in schools is an ongoing problem, but teaching young people how to treat others is a step in the right direction.

Antunes to speak in C-K

The Chatham Voice

A symposium highlighting the importance of welcoming new faces to Chatham-Kent will take place Feb. 20 in Chatham. As part of the annual Chatham-Kent Local Immigration Partnership (CK LIP) community forum, attendees will learn about the positive impacts im-

migrants and newcomers bring to the communities they call home.

In a media release, CK LIP’s Lara Olukolu said the event highlights the work done in Chatham-Kent over the past five years as part of the organization’s strategic plan, showcasing the “positive impact” immigration brings.

The event features a talk by keynote speaker Pedro Antunes, a chief economist with the Conference Board of Canada. Antunes will speak about Canadian immigration, housing and economic trends, including how immigration supports economic development and growth in local communities.

Doors open at 11 a.m. and the formal agenda runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. providing an opportunity for participants to network before and after the event.

Registration is available at: cklipforum.eventbrite.ca.

The forum will be held at the John. D. Bradley Centre in Chatham.

Over 75% of people say they’ve been bullied. Over 90% of bullying incidents have peer witnesses. But when those peers intervene, most incidents are over within 10 seconds. Bullying could be happening to someone you know and care about – join us in taking a stand against bullying, and letting your peers know that it is not okay. Show kindness, empathy, and compassion, and speak out!

One in five young people across the country are bullied regularly, the impact can l ast through adulthood

What is bullying?

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Bullying is a form of aggression where there is a power imbalance; the person doing the bullying has power over the person being victimized. In additional to any physical trauma incurred, bullying can result in serious emotional problems, including anxiety, low self-esteem, or depression. Types of bullying

• Physical bullying: using physical force or aggression against another person (e.g., hitting)

• Verbal bullying: using words to verbally attack someone (e.g., name-calling)

• Social/relational bullying: trying to hurt someone through excluding them, spreading rumours or ignoring them (e.g., gossiping)

• Cyberbullying: using electronic media to threaten, embarrass, intimidate, or exclude someone, or to damage their reputation (e.g., sending threatening text messages).

Consider these tips if you witness bullying:

• Speak up: Bullying can make a person feel isolated, but by speaking up against those who bully others, you have the power to stop it. In the moment it can be as simple as saying: ‘Cut it out’ or you can ask the person being bullied. If you are uncomfortable speaking up, find someone who can safely intervene.

• Refuse to go along with it. Youth who bully others often crave attention and an audience for their bad deeds. Those who laugh or cheer on people who bully are sending the message that they approve of their actions, but if you stand up for the person being targeted, you can show that you’re against the abusive behaviour.

• Write down what happened. Incidents can happen quickly, making it difficult to remember everything that occurred.

• Get help from your friends. People who bully others may get support from a large group, but if you seek the assistance of your friends, you can get the support you need to speak out against bullying.

• Be kind online. Young people are often targeted by people who bully online, but you can refuse to go along with this behaviour by refusing to share messages, being kind online and blocking someone who spreads rumours about others.

• You should never give out your passwords, even to close friends, and you should avoid posting personal information online. If someone sends you abusive messages, you should always save these exchanges.

• Seek counselling. Don’t keep your problems hidden.

• Talk to a trusted adult. Whether it’s a teacher, parent, relative or coach, if you witness bullying, you should reach out to an adult that you respect and trust. He or she can help you figure out the best approach to take.

• Take action. Talk to your school or community about the possibility of forming a bullying prevention committee with teachers, parents and young people.

InformationcourtesyofRedCrossCanada.

Pedro Antunes

Cornhole event raises $51K for C-K Hospice

The Chatham Voice

Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation may be onto something in bringing a traditional outdoor activity indoors and turning it into a fundraisers.

The foundation hosted the second Cornhole for Hospice fundraiser recently, and raised $51,500 for hospice care in Chatham-Kent.

The event welcomed players of all abilities to the John D. Bradley Convention Centre for a day

of friendly competition and fundraising.

Thirty-seven teams took part, and were split into two brackets based on ability.

Mike and Susan Cartier of team Last of 19 took home the trophy and cash prize of $500 for the Best of the Best bracket, while Gord and Tracy Adams of team Nan & Popps won the $250 cash prize in the Best of the Rest bracket.

Tim Patterson, the top fundraiser, and Cheryl Carroll, fundraising draw

winner, each walked away with a set of cornhole boards for their efforts.

“We are so grateful for all of the teams who came out to support this event, as well as all of the donors and sponsors who made Cornhole for Hospice such a success,”

Ginny Hawken, special cvents chair for the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation, said in a media release. “The true winners from this event are the people across Cha-

tham-Kent that will have access to end-of-life care at no cost to themselves or their families.”

Tournament play was organized by the local cornhole league, CK Dirty Birds, run by Darryl Lucio, Brett Castein, and Tyler Lucio.

Registration for the 2026 Cornhole for Hospice tournament is already open. Visit cornholeforhospiceck.com for more information, to register or see a full list of supporters.

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Contributed image

Cornhole for Hospice Best of the Best winners, from left, Susan and Mike Cartier, with Best of the Rest winners, Tracy and Gord Adams.

More work in downtown Tilbury

The Chatham Voice

It looks like the eyesore on Tilbury’s main drag is going to around for a while more.

According to a media release from the municipality, structural issues relating to the two buildings abutting 47 and 49 Queen St. N. have to be remedied before further demolition can proceed.

The buildings comprise

an entire block in Tilbury’s downtown core. A pile of bricks and rubble is flanked by buildings on two sides with debris ballooning out into a fenced area on the sidewalk.

Concrete markers on the street ensure that vehicles stay away from the area.

C-K corporate communications manager Eric Labadie said the effort to fix the problem is ongoing. Currently, insurers

are looking at examining an engineering report issued earlier this month to decide next steps.

“Because 45 and 55 Queen St. are privately owned, the property owners and their insurers are involved to develop a plan to correct the structural concerns on those properties so that the demolition work can be completed,” the release stated. “Demolition at 47

and 49 cannot continue until 45 and 55 Queen St. are stabilized and the danger of further collapse is remedied. Based on the findings of the engineering report, safety protocols will be established and debris will be removed to accommodate the plans outlined by the insurer.”

In 2022, the municipality received complaints of a collapsing building

at 47 and 49 Queen St. N.

The municipality hired a structural engineer who confirmed the presence of a partially collapsed roof and structural failures, determining that the buildings were not fit for occupancy and required major repair or demolition.

An order was issued to the owner of the building, requiring a condition assessment to be done and to undertake necessary repairs. The owner did not carry out the required steps and demolition was ultimately ordered.

During the subsequent demolition of 47 and 49, the media release said engineers noticed pre-existing structural defects of the walls of 45 and 55 and recommended that demolition pause until these walls were stabilized.

As a result, orders to remedy an unsafe building and prohibit occupancy were issued to the property owners of 45 and 55 Queen St. as well.

The municipality understands the “unsightly nature” of the site, adding work will begin as soon as possible.

Contributed image

Part of downtown Tilbury looks more like a war zone than part of a Canadian municipality. Municipal officials said efforts are underway to fix the issue, but don’t expect anything to happen overnight.

Community Events

Thursday, February 20, 2025:

• Afternoon Jamboree with all singers & musicians welcome 1-4pm at the Merlin Legion. Come out and enjoy good music and great company. Donation welcome. Call 519-350-8937 for info.

• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In from 6:00-9:00pm. Come spend some time in a 2SLGBTQIA+ safe space 48 Centre St., Chatham. Hang out, have a coffee, do your homework, ask a question, read a book, or chat about life or what we’ve been working on. No RSVP needed! Come & go as you please. All ages & allies welcome.

• Messy Thursdays at 4:30pm at the Merlin branch of the CKPL. Every week is something new and maybe messy. All ages, no registration required.

• Join us for an engaging discussion on Immigration strategies and community collaboration in our upcoming CK Local Immigration Partnership Annual Forum. This forum will highlight the importance of creating a welcoming community in Chatham-Kent, and the positive impacts immigrants and newcomers bring to the communities they choose to call home. 11:30am-1:30pm. John D Bradley Convention Centre, 565 Richmond St. Chatham, ON. Registration is requiredTo register please visit cklipforum. eventbrite.ca. For questions or more information on this, please reach out to us at cklip@chatham-kent.ca.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-3:00pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome. After 3:00pm, the legion will be closed for preparation of a Zone meeting, then opened for members only.

• The Chatham-Kent Quilters’ Guild meeting at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave W, Chatham. Doors open at 6:00 for socializing and shopping. Meeting starts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome to join us, the fee for non-members is $10 per meeting. Come and enjoy our presentations, guest speakers and all of the other fun at our meeting. You are welcome to contact us through our Facebook page or our website at www.ckquiltguild.com for more information.

Friday, February 21, 2025:

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

4:00–6:00pm. No orders after 5:30pm. Specials are roast beef, potatoes $15.00 or fish & chips $14.00. Take out available, call 519-351-8733 or 519-3515639. Fun Darts at 7:00pm.

• Scrumptious Perch and/or Chicken dinner with choice of potato & coleslaw plus dessert. Served 4:30-7pm at the Merlin Legion. 5pc perch $20; perch/ chicken combo $20 and 3pc chicken $15.50. Contact 519-689-4884 for more information. Take outs also available

Saturday, February 22, 2025:

• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In from 11:00am-2:00pm. Come spend some time in a 2SLGBTQIA+ safe space 48 Centre St., Chatham. Get some clothes from our Out of the Closet program, use the Community cupboard & more! No RSVP needed! Come & go as you please. All ages & allies welcome.

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

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 10:00am-9:30pm. Line Dancing lessons 10:00am-12 noon. Meat draws at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open 3:006:00pm. Entertainment by D.A.M. Band from 4:30-9:30. Everyone is welcome.

• The Mary Webb Centre for the Arts has unfortunately had to postpone the scheduled concert with “The Laws”, a husband and wife singing and song-writing duo from Kingsville. More information at marywebbcentre.ca.

Sunday, February 23, 2025:

• Merlin Legion Classic Country Jamboree from 1:30pm-5:30pm followed by a meatloaf dinner of meatloaf, potato, mixed veggie, coleslaw, dessert with coffee/tea for only $15. No Frills meal & Hamburgers also available. So bring your dancing shoes and don’t miss the fun event. Contact 519-476-5870 to book your spot. Take outs also available. $5 entry with musicians/singers free.

Monday, February 24, 2025:

• Kent Branch Of The Ontario Genealogy Society is having a 2nd scanning party from 4:30pm-8:00pm in their room on the 2nd floor of the Chatham Public Library. This is a free event-come and learn how to digitize your family treasures and historical material. Everyone is welcome. For more information contact: kent@ogs.on.ca.

Tuesday, February 25, 2025:

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

• CK Jobs presents: Find Your New Career with the Better Jobs Ontario Training Grant. Join us for a virtual information session exploring in-demand career opportunities and training through the provincially funded program. 12 – 12:30pm. Reserve your spot at eventbrite.ca.

Wednesday, February 26, 2025:

• Kent County Stamp Club meeting at the Active Lifestyle Center, 20 Merritt Ave. Chatham. 7:30pm-9:00pm. New Members and guests are welcome. Our members collect Canadian, USA, and World Stamps, Covers & Postcards. Learn & share knowledge of the Philatelic hobby. For more info contact President Dennis Marek (drsam2945@ gmail.com) (519-627-1429).

• Preschool Storytime at 10:30am at the Blenheim branch of the CKPL. Join us for songs, rhymes, and stories! Best suited to children 5 years and younger. Drop-in. No Registration required.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Our daily special is meat loaf dinner. We have Fun Darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

• CK Jobs presents: How to Prepare for a Job Fair. 12:30-1pm. Learn tips and tricks on how to prepare for the upcoming Workforce Week Job Fair. Online, sign up at eventbrite.ca

Thursday, February 27, 2025:

• Afternoon Jamboree with all singers & musicians welcome 1-4pm at the Merlin Legion. Come out and enjoy good music and great company. Donation welcome. Call 519-350-8937 for info.

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

• Messy Thursdays at 4:30pm at the Merlin branch of the CKPL. Every week is something new and maybe messy. All ages, no registration required.

Fun Stuff

CLUES DOWN

1. Body art

2. Boxing’s GOAT

3. Film for posterity (abbr.)

4. Prayer

5. Calculating machine

6. Keyboard key

7. Outburst

8. Man-eating giants

9. New Hampshire

10. Type of sword

11. Counting

13. Pants style

15. Political action committee

CLUES ACROSS

1. Tropical Asian plant

5. Yankees slugger Judge

10. Helps to preserve food

12. Plant disease

14. One who predicts 16. Equally 18. Burundian franc 19. Pouch 20. Arizona city 22. Surround 23. Hard, heavy timber 25. Witnessed 26. They __ 27. French river 28. A way to drink 30. Small constellation 31. Peruse a written work

33. Type of hound

35. Plant of the goosefoot family

37. Evade or escape

38. A way to confine

40. Volcanic crater

41. Weekday

42. Women’s service organization (abbr.)

44. Local area network

45. Sensory receptor

48. Posted

50. Tibetan pastry

52. Licensed for Wall Street

53. Very willing

55. Golf score

56. Consume

57. Touchdown

58. Tends to remind

63. In a way, smoothed

65. Poke holes in the ground

66. Herbaceous plants

67. Taiwanese river

17. U.S. government legislative branch

18. Civil Rights Act component

21. Contractors take one

23. Spanish soldier

24. A person’s brother or sister

27. Expressed pleasure

29. Song of praise

32. Shock treatment

34. Patti Hearst’s captors

35. Counteract

36. Goes over again

39. Popular Dodge truck

40. Male adult

43. A part of a river where the current is very fast

44. Rope used to lasso

46. Become less intense

47. Subway rodent

49. Lead alloy

51. Japanese honorific title

54. Advise someone

59. Famous NYC museum

60. Ocean

61. Cathode-ray tube

62. Cologne

64. It starts with these two

Entegrus continues Habitat partnership

Entegrus personnel recently celebrated 10 years of partnership with Habitat for Humanity Chatham-Kent, returning as the organization’s Signature Sponsor for 2025 with a $20,000 contribution. Since the partnership began, Entegrus has contributed more than $150,000 to the organization, helping their efforts in creating affordable local homeownership opportunities.

“Entegrus has been a steadfast partner since our 2015 Wallaceburg build, and their continued investment has been vital,” said Anne Taylor, director of partnerships and stakeholder relations for Habitat for Humanity Chatham-Kent, in a media release. “Their support has helped eight local families achieve the dream of homeownership, and we’re excited to continue this partnership.”

“Affordable housing is key to thriving communities,” said Jim Hogan, president and CEO of Entegrus. “We’re proud to support Habitat for Humanity Chatham-Kent in their mission to create safe, stable homes for local families.”

Beyond financial contributions, Entegrus employees actively support Habitat’s mission, volunteering at build sites, assisting at events, and serving on the organization’s board of directors.

Time stands still in ’Burg February marks 70 years for a timeless business in Wallaceburg.

On Feb. 3, 1955 a short note in The Wallaceburg News announced that “Mr. Harry Stekelbos has opened a watch repair shop and jewellery store at 851 Dufferin Ave.”

The watch repair trade was a sec-

ond career for Stekelbos, who needed a change due to health reasons.

Some early pictures show a small shop set up inside the front porch of his home.

The little shop prospered, and by the late 1960s, the store expanded to accommodate the growing business.

Looking to retire, Stekelbos was able to connect with Dick Bulsink, a student of a watch repair trade school in the Netherlands. Once certified, Bulsink immigrated to Canada in 1982 and has continued this small watch and jewellery store since.

“Through the years, the watch and clock repair trade has changed a lot because of the advancements of the battery-operated quartz technology” Bulsink said. “But there is still a high level of appreciation for the mechanical timepieces of grandfather, wall and mantel clocks and also for the intricacies of a mechanical watch.”

The trade of watch and clock repair has become a rarity over the last few decades. As a result Stekelbos Watch and Clock Repair has become a destination for many watch and clock lovers who want their timepieces serviced by a certified technician.

“The work never stops to fascinate me, it gives me a high level of satisfaction to get a non-functioning watch or clock running again,” Bulsink said.

Continued on page 22

• Property Identification Number 00818 0025, James Street Registered Plan 195 Geographic Township of Tilbury East, Municipality of Chatham-Kent, being Parts 1, 2 & 3 of Part of PIN 00818 0025 as depicted in 24R11485

NOTICE OF THE PROPOSED ROAD CLOSING Notice is hereby given that at a meeting of the Council of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent on February 24, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Civic Centre, 315 King Street West, Chatham, Council will consider, and if approved, may pass a by-law to stop up and close part of the road from James Street in the community of Merlin:

The Chatham Voice

Contribued image

From left, Anne Taylor, director of partnerships and stakeholder relations for Habitat for Humanity Chatham-Kent; Amy Adams, Entegrus and Habitat board member; and Jim Hogan, president and CEO, Entegrus, celebrate a decade-long partnership between the two organizations.

OBITUARIES

Roger Lesy

78, Wednesday, February 5, 2025

McKinlay Funeral Home

Harry Jinkerson

74, Wednesday, February 12, 2025

McKinlay Funeral Home

Henry Andrew Stepniak

Saturday, February 8, 2025

McKinlay Funeral Home

Sherrie Lampman-Smits

64, Monday, February 10, 2025

McKinlay Funeral Home

Allan Levine

82, Tuesday, February 11, 2025

McKinlay Funeral Home

Ralph Gordon Deline

83, Friday, February 7, 2025

McKinlay Funeral Home

Anne Marie Mann

90, Saturday, February 8, 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home

Mary McDonnell (née Lacina)

103, Monday, February 10, 2025

McKinlay Funeral Home

John William (Bill) Holling

77, Wednesday, February 12, 2025

McKinlay Funeral Home

Marie Jeanne Couture

89, Thursday, February 13, 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home

Kathleen Myers (Brown)

86, Friday, February 7, 2025 Life Transitions

Donna Burd (Pakulski)

56, Sunday, February 9, 2025 Life Transitions

Lorne Zimmer

92, Thursday February 6th, 2025

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Larry Zimmer

77, Saturday, February 8, 2025

Kendrick Funeral Home

Terry Moore

70, Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Kendrick Funeral Home

Timothy “Tim” Young

64, Thursday February 6, 2025

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Jules Baribeau

90, Thursday February 6, 2025

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

David Barrette

Saturday February 8, 2025

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

André Le Clair

80, Tuesday February 11, 2025

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Ken Nealey

69, Sunday February 9, 2025

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Ray Hands

93, Thursday, February 6, 2025

Badder Funeral Home

Anne Hodulik

Friday, February 7, 2025

Badder Funeral Home

See full obituaries at chathamvoice.com/obituaries

Mosaic display for Chatham’s Brio Academy

Continued from page 21

Chatham’s Brio Academy will serve as a host location for Mural Mosaic’s Global Roots Project, bringing the Canada Connects Home & Family National Mural Mosaic to the Chatham-Kent community.

The mosaic, which is a collaborative artwork made up of hundreds of individually painted tiles from artists of all ages and skill levels across Canada and beyond, will be permanently installed at Brio Academy. It will be unveiled Feb. 25 at 11 a.m. at 330 Richmond St.

Each tile in the mosaic reflects a unique perspective on the themes of home, family, and connection, coming together to form a breathtaking piece of public art.

As part of this initiative, Brio Academy will serve as a lasting home for this national collaboration, reinforcing its mission to foster creativity, self-expression, and community engagement through the arts.

sified Lending Fund. The fund manages a diversified portfolio of mortgages secured by real estate, focused on agricultural assets.

“We’re thrilled that BMO has joined our network of supporters who have placed their trust in our fund and our goal to support Canadian agriculture by providing options for securing alternative capital for farms and agri-businesses,” said Robb Nelson, CEO at Farm Lending Canada, in a media release. “Having versatile and sustainable financing choices is critical for a healthy future for Canadian farmers.”

FLC manages AgriRoots, an exempt market investment available to accredited investors and eligible investors via AgriRoots Diversified Lending Trust.

Investors may invest in both registered and non-registered funds.

ly completed its beta testing of its new SMS/text alert capabilities, and raised funds to support families facing food insecurity at the same time.

“Brio Academy is honoured to be part of this incredible international arts initiative,” said Rachel Schwarz, founder and artistic director of Brio Academy, in a media release. “At Brio, we believe in the power of art to connect, uplift, and inspire. This mural mosaic is a perfect reflection of what we strive to teach our students every day – that art is a bridge between people, a way to tell stories, and a way to strengthen our community.”

Agri-lending group teams up with BMO Farm Lending Canada (FLC) has joined forces with BMO in a new commercial arrangement.

BMO will support Farm Lending’s AgriRoots Diver-

“There are tremendous opportunities for investors in the Canadian agricultural space,” said Nelson. “At the same time, you are helping to serve growth and expansion in one of Canada’s most important sectors.”

Farm Lending Canada aims to facilitate seamless transitions for farmers to conventional lending facilities, promoting sustainability and long-term growth in the agricultural sector.

The commercial arrangement with BMO enables the fund to substantially increase its reach in the Canadian Alternative agricultural mortgage market in 2025.

Entegrus helps power up food banks Entegrus recently donated nearly $10,000 to several food banks in southwestern Ontario.

The utility company recent-

As a result, Entegrus donated $9,725 to Salvation Army chapters in Chatham, St. Thomas, and Strathroy, providing the equivalent to approximately 4,850 meals. Jim Hogan, president & CEO of Entegrus, thanked customers for taking part. “This initiative has shown the power of combining customer engagement with community support,” he said in a media release. “By signing up for SMS alerts, our customers not only enhanced their own experience but also made a significant impact in the fight against food insecurity. We are grateful for their support, which enabled us to make a difference where it’s needed most.”

Major Larry Bridger, director of The Salvation Army Chatham-Kent emphasized the importance of such contributions during challenging times.

“The generosity of Entegrus and its customers comes at a crucial time. The funds raised through this campaign will go directly toward providing meals to those who need them most in our communities,” he said. “On behalf of The Salvation Army and the families we serve, thank you for making a real difference.”

• 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.

Obituaries

Deline: Ralph Gordon

Classifieds

Obituaries

A resident of Chatham, Ralph Deline passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at the Chatham Kent Health Alliance-Chatham Campus on Friday, February 7, 2025 at the age of 83. Born in Chatham, Ralph was the son of the late Percy and Bessie (nee Sexton) Deline. Beloved husband of 57 years to Linda Deline (nee Robertson). Loving father of Annette Bushey (Jon) and Jeff Deline (Sarah). Proud grandfather of Dustin Deline, Hailey Caryn, Wyatt Bushey, Tony Deline and Laura-Lynn Deline. Great-grandfather of Layla, Serenity, Eugene and Jasper. Survived by brother Roy Deline (Elvy), niece Janet Deline and nephew Chris Deline and family. Family received friends at the Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 12, 2025 from 4:00 - 8:00pm. Funeral mass was held at Christ Church Anglican, 80 Wellington St. W., Chatham on Thursday, February 13, 2025 at 1:00pm. Interment followed at Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham. Donations made in memory of Ralph to Christ Church Anglican or the Chatham Goodfellows would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be left at www. mckinlayfuneralhome.com. McKinlay Funeral Home 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham. 519-351-2040.

Announcement

Chatham Baptist Chapel

“Come Out, Join Us”

Sundays 11am and 7pm.

Wednesdays 7pm, Friday 7pm.

Old Hymns and KJV Preaching Go to chathambaptistchapel.com to watch sermons.

Services

The Girl

Family Caregiver

Need a break from your loved one?

Need time to run errands or shop?

Need time to visit a friend?

Need a companion for a shut-in?

The Family Caregiver Relief Girl can help. Mature, responsible young senior with an approved Police Check, looking to give caregivers a much-needed break.

First two hours (minimum): $50.00

Three hours $70.00 Laundry and light housekeeping negotiable.

Text: 519-354-9702 for more info, or to book an appointment.

McDonnell: Mary Frances (née Lacina)

A resident of Chatham, Mary McDonnell passed away at Copper Terrace Long Term Care Home on February 10, 2025 at the young age of 103. Born in Vnorovy, Czechoslovakia, Mary was the daughter of the late Frank and Francis (née Brecka) Lacina. Mary was married to Frank Bartosek (Deceased 1968) for 27 years, and she remarried Donald McDonnell (Deceased 2000). Mother to Nancy Gagnon (The late Norman) and Joanne Bartosek. Grandmother to Suzette Devolder (Ralph), Steven Gagnon (Grace) and Sheri Millsum (John O’ Rourke), along with several grand cats and chickens. Great Grandmother to Clare, Seavers, Spencer and Rachel. Survived by sister Emilie Otrhalek and predeceased by siblings Stan Lacina and Lillian Palanek. Mary was a remarkable woman who selflessly loved and cared for her family and was a huge part of her community. She was the last Surviving founding member of the Active Lifestyle Centre here in Chatham. Mary helped open the Active Lifestyle Centre in 1970 and worked tirelessly there until she was 96 years old. The family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to the staff at Copper Terrace for their devoted passion, care and support. Mary considered them her second family. Friends to be received on Friday February 21, 2025, at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham from 3:00pm - 5:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held on February 22, 2025 at 10:00am at Blessed Sacrament 145 Victoria Ave, Chatham. Donations made in memory of Mary to the Canadian National Institute For The Blind or The Active Lifestyle Centre would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

Puppies

Purebred Rotty Pups. Ready to go home March 16th. Comes with first shots, tails docked. $1200. 4 females, 3 males. Mom and Dad on site. Call 519-360-5843 for more details.

Loans

Classified ads start at only $6. Give us a call today!

Chatham Voice 519-397-2020

MORTGAGES / LOANS

Whether you are looking to

$50,000

$100,000

$200,000

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$400,000

BONNIE JINKS

Wanted

Wanted to rent or buy 1 or 4 acres of land in Chatham-Kent area. No buildings or utilities needed. Rural area preferred. 519-352-5414 or 226-627-5414.

Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-7278894.

For Sale

Lessons

GUITAR LESSONS available. Novice and advanced. Call Dan 519-917-2339.

Wanted

CASH CASH CASH Will pay cash for Elvis DVDs. Phone 519-917-2339

For Sale

Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Readyto-go. Many colours available.

$40. 519-3543411

Native Crafts Moccasins, handmade necklaces, bracelets, dream catchers & more!

Open Thursday - Saturday 11am-4pm Cash only, no debit 14911 River Line, Delaware Nation

This week’s answers, puzzles found on page 16

March 11, 1951 - February 24, 2021

Four years ago I lost

My teenage girlfriend

My best friend

My wife for almost 50 years

The mother of our two sons

The grandmother of our two grandsons

The love of my life

My Soulmate

A sister to Lois and Janet

Lovingly remembered by Murray, Alan, Elizabeth, Matthew, Colin and Mark