Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
‘Elbows Up’ everybody
Local printer offering free pro-Canadian posters
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Like most of us, Rick Gardiner is fed up with President Donald Trump’s mean-spirited attacks on Canada.
Last week the graphic designer’s exasperation peaked, so
the owner of Planet Print channelled his anger into creating a unique emblem protesting Trump’s notion that Canada become the 51st U.S. state.
The emboldened so-called leader of the free world has been making a lot of noise about Canadian joining the U.S. Trump has spoken plainly
about using economic force to annex Canada and has constantly levelled threats of 25-per-cent tariffs on imported Canadian goods.
Initially, Trump said the tariffs were coming in due to what he claimed were Canada’s lax borders that allow fentanyl to “pour” into the United States, killing Americans.
But as witnessed in an increasingly chaotic news cycle, Trump keeps moving the goalposts on a daily, even hourly basis. On March 6, the president did an about face, saying tariffs imposed on March 4, will now be postponed until April 2.
Even with the reprieve, Gardiner said the threat to Canada’s sovereignty remains.
“I go home and I watch the news and social media and it’s just so frustrating,” the business owner explained. “To be called the 51st state and to have our prime minister called Governor Trudeau...it’s disrespectful and it just pisses me off.
“The frustration was building and I had to do something,” he added.
“My idea is to try and get the community to rally together and stand up to tyranny. Stand up to the bully.”
Gardiner’s vintage inspired designed features a red and while maple leaf with “est. 1867” emblazoned underneath.
The top of the motto reads “Elbows Up” in reference to hockey great
Rick Gardiner, owner of Planet Print in Chatham, put his frustration with the Trump government to work creating a patriot Canadian design that reads “Elbows Up, Never 51.” The graphic artist is offering free posters to businesses who want to display the message.
Gordie Howe who creamed his opponents with his elbows.
In a recent appearance on Saturday Night Live, Canadian comedian Mike Myers mouthed the words “elbows up” to viewers, encouraging Canada to fight back against American threats. Myers wore a “Canada is Not for Sale” T-shirt.
The bottom of Gardiner’s design reads “Never 51.”
Aside from the obvious threat to our country, Gardiner is con-
cerned that America’s bullying will adversely affect the younger generation.
“Young people are still influenced and are mouldable,” Gardiner said. “This hatred, nonsense and disrespect can really shape their views in a very negative way.”
Gardiner’s hope is to get every business in Chatham-Kent to put a free “Elbows Up” sign in their window.
Continued on page 3
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
C-K promotes ‘Team Canada’ approach
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
In the wake of Donald Trump’s continued tariff threats against Canada, Chatham-Kent is taking a “Team Canada” approach.
To that end, council passed a multi-faceted resolution at a special meeting March 6, called in response to 25 per cent tariffs imposed against Canadian goods by the United States government – much of which was postponed late that afternoon until April.
The C-K resolution directs administration to examine the municipality’s supply chains, purchasing power and to engage in advocacy to mitigate a potential trade war.
A strategy is needed, officials said, as every business sector in Chatham-Kent will be impacted either directly or indirectly if tariffs go ahead.
“It’s going to be painful across all sectors,” Stuart McFadden, head of Chatham-Kent’s Economic Development Services, told council, adding he wasn’t going to “sugarcoat” the damaging effects tariffs could have.
McFadden’s comments were part of a presentation to council outlining the ways the municipality can prepare. He said a number of initiatives are underway, including the creation of tariff page on Chatham-Kent’s website to offer the latest information.
In his remarks, McFadden en-
couraged residents to stay calm, continue to invest in the economy and to “buy local” whenever possible.
“You’re supporting your nextdoor neighbour, you’re supporting your friends,” McFadden said. “You’re supporting the person who supports your child’s hockey team.”
McFadden said it’s all hands on deck going forward, with administrative working with upper levels of government to bring supports to Chatham-Kent.
Ironically, in an about-face move only two hours before the meeting, Trump announced he was pausing most of the tariffs – imposed on Canada March 4 – until April 2. It’s the latest in a flurry of trade announcements made since the president took office.
According to McFadden, dealing with the tariff issue is difficult, as it keeps changing.
“One of the real challenges that we have is facing the unknown,” McFadden explained, but stressed that staff has been working with business and government leaders on the issue since the U.S. started talking about border issues, including the fact Trump would like to see Canada become the 51st state.
In the presentation, C-K chief financial officer Gord Quinton stressed that taking action is not a move against the American people.
“We’re all proud Canadians,” Quinton said. “Anything
that we do here tonight isn’t anti-American, it’s anti-theTrump-tariffs. That’s the issue. We have free trade agreements. We expect people to hold up their end of the bargain.”
In explaining the municipality’s “buy Canadian” spending, Quinton said it’s complicated because some goods and services – such as firetrucks – can only be purchased in the U.S. Plus, Chatham-Kent is legally bound by some of its purchasing agreements and it is still unclear what goods will be affected.
In his remarks, Mayor Darrin Canniff, said the tariff turmoil has created uncertainty for everyone. “We would all prefer not to be here tonight,” Canniff told council. “What’s happening south of the border is impacting all of us. It’s terrible what’s going on. Every mayor, every municipality, every politician in this country is dealing with this right now.
“This is something we need to work on right across the nation,” he said, adding a solution will come from putting pressure on the average American, who in turn will pressure their government.
Lambton-Kent-Middle-
Lawns signs to be available too
Continued from page 2
And due to interest from the public he’s planning to create yard signs for $10 and provide stickers as well.
He’s not reaping a profit. “We don’t want to make anything on this,” he said. “The idea is just to rally together as a community and
to bring a little more positivity to our day.”
Planet Print is located at 930 Richmond St. in Chatham.
MPP Steve Pinsonneault attended the session in person, with Chatham-Kent-Leam-
sex
ington MPP Trevor Jones and C-K-L MP Dave Epp attending virtually.
Measles exposure in local school
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Another case of measles has surfaced in Chatham-Kent and the municipality’s acting medical officer of health says there may be more.
“I would not be surprised if there are other cases of measles in Chatham-Kent. We anticipate there will be other cases.”
“I would not be surprised if there are other cases of measles in Chatham-Kent,” Dr. Shanker Nesathurai told reporters
- Dr. Shanker Nesathurai
at a news conference Friday. “We anticipate there will be other cases.” Nesathurai’s comments come in response to the confirmed case of a student at Chatham Christian School. It’s been widely reported on social media that the student was in school with the illness for a month, however, Chatham-Kent Public Health officials claim they cannot speak to this due to priva-
cy concerns. When asked about the possible time lag, Nesathurai said that public health begins an investigation as soon as officials are aware of a measles case. However, if there is no threat to the community, he said cases aren’t always publicized.
“For
tham, on March 5 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and again on March 6 from 2:15 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. An exposure also occurred at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) on Feb. 15 from 2:35 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
those most part, the illness is only a challenge to those who are unvaccinated.”
Besides the school, multiple other points of exposure have been identified. They include Thamesview Family Health, 465 Grand Ave W. in Cha-
- Dr. Shanker Nesathurai
Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent Southeast Chatham-Kent Water Distribution System Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Notice of Public Information Centre 2
The Study
The Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent (CK PUC) is completing a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) study for the Southeast Chatham-Kent Water Distribution System in accordance with the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. This Schedule ‘B’ MCEA Study will assess capacity requirements and provide recommendations on the existing South Chatham-Kent water treatment plant and water distribution system to accommodate increasing water demand and supply to the Ridgetown-Highgate Communities. Refer to Map 1 for the Study Area.
Public Information Centre (PIC) #2
PIC #2 will summarize work completed since PIC #1, to describe the alternative water servicing strategies (including their evaluation) to address the problem and opportunity statement, to highlight the preliminary recommended water strategy and to describe the next steps in the process.
PIC #2 will be presented online as a video recording. This recording will be available starting on March 24th, 2025 and can be accessed for the duration of the study. PIC materials are shared on the Let’s Talk Chatham-Kent webpage at the following address: https://www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca
How to get involved
seven days after the start of symptoms and this can spread on the body.
Other exposures occurred at the Chatham-Kent YMCA Feb. 25 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; the Chatham Christian School Celebration of Learning event, Feb. 27, 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.; and again at the Christian School kindergarten registration Feb. 28, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; No Frills Chatham Mar. 5 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; the Tilbury Walkin Clinic Mar. 5 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and again at the Tilbury clinic on Mar. 6 from 9:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.
Map 1
The CK PUC invites anyone with an interest in the study to have an opportunity to provide feedback and help inform the decision-making process. The comment section will be enabled on the website from March 24 to 28. If you have comments or questions, require further information or would like to be added to the study mailing list to receive future notifications, please contact:
Ali Akl, M.Eng., P.Eng., PMP Manager, Engineering
Chatham-Kent PUC
Tel: 226-312-2023 ext. 4347
Email : alia@chatham-kent.ca
Paul Adams, CPT. Environmental Planner AECOM Canada ULC.
Tel: 519-636-6448
Email: paul.adams2@aecom.com
With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record of the Study.
This Notice was Issued March 10th, 2025.
Anyone who was present at these locations during the aforementioned timeframes, and who is not up to date with their vaccinations, is asked to call CKPH at 519-352-7270 ext. 5902.
But despite the fact the disease is highly contagious, Nesathurai said the situation in Chatham-Kent is “readily manageable.
“For the most part, the illness is only a challenge to those who are unvaccinated,” he stated.
Topp told media, stressing that people who think they may be infected who want to access health care are asked to call ahead.
Topp said suspected cases will be sent to a separate area, and negative pressure rooms and air scrubbers may be deployed.
“It’s a very, very contagious disease,” he said, noting officials don’t want measles patients mingling with others in the waiting room.
“It’s one of the most infectious diseases we know of.”
- Dr. Shanker Nesathurai
Measles vaccination rates are high in Chatham-Kent, Nesathurai added. Across the district, students age 17 have a 95-per-cent vaccination rate, and 88 per cent of students are vaccinated at age 7.
Measles symptoms include a fever, runny nose, cough, drowsiness, irritability, and red eyes. A red rash appears on the face three to
The CKHA is also on the alert and has set up protocols to deal with measles directly.
According to CKHA president and CEO Adam Topp, the hospital has stepped up its efforts.
“Because we know there are cases of measles in Ontario, we are more vigilant in trying to spot it,”
The latest case of measles marks the fifth in Chatham-Kent this year.
“It’s one of the most infectious diseases we know of,” Nesathurai said, adding a room can be contagious two hours after a person with the ailment has left it. He said that when he graduated from medical school, he believed measles had been “vanquished,” and many young physicians have never encountered the illness.
In recent months, measles has been making a comeback in Ontario, with outbreaks in neighbouring municipalities. There are more than 225 cases confirmed.
Job fair bustles with activity
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
When it comes to her future, Riya Deo is looking at all the angles.
The Grade 10 Chatham-Kent Secondary School student has a broad range of jobs in her sights and she’s hard at it, doing the footwork to forge her career path.
that are hiring – or will be in the near future.
Organized by the municipality’s Employer and Social Services department, the fair was part of a number of C-K Workforce Week initiatives.
“I’m exploring skilled trades, but also looking at jobs in the health care and medical fields.”
- Student Riya Deo
“I’m exploring skilled trades, but also looking at jobs in the health care and medical fields,” Deo told The Voice, adding she enjoys investigating the options.
Deo was among the 1,434 people who poured through the doors at the Bradley Centre March 5 to check out the possibilities at Chatham-Kent’s Job Fair and Career Expo.
Matt Keech, employment and social services program manager for the municipality, said the event was a resounding success.
A total of 85 exhibitors set up booths, he added, with some employers hiring people or providing volunteer opportunities right on the spot. Others were able to sign up for apprenticeships.
Attendees were able to hand out resumes and connect with a host of businesses and agencies
According to Deo, she doesn’t feel limited in her choices. She’s already taking a Manufacturing Technology course at school, covering a slew of skills, from spot welding to creating computerized drawings with AutoCAD.
At the job fair, she was among the curious who checked out the new Skills Ontario tech trailer, trying her hand at techniques, including simulated autobody painting.
The smiling teen said the handson stuff is a lot of fun.
of the local Skills Ontario trailer team, points out that there are more than 140 skilled trade options in Ontario and 300 in Canada.
A former employee of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent in water and wastewater and a Class A truck driver, Mackenzie said he wishes something like the trailer was available when he was starting out as a young man.
“If this trailer was around when I was in high school, I would absolutely have a different story to be telling you,” Mackenzie said. “We are showing them, particularly high school students, some of the skilled trades that are in high demand.”
“We are showing them, particularly high school students, some of the skilled trades that are in high demand.”
- Randy Mackenzie
“I’m already on it,” said Deo of her future. “I love it, I really do.”
The Ontario Skills trailer was a popular draw at the job fair. Based in Pain Court, the 42-foot trailer is available to travel to events across the region, giving job seekers a taste of some of the things they could be doing if they take up a trade.
Randy Mackenzie, who is part
Skills Ontario is a non-profit agency supported by the provincial government, according to Hayley Mackay, truck and tech program manager for the organization. She said a total of 1,000 people went through the trailer last week in Chatham, noting interest is high.
“Some of these skilled trades we are showing are also transferrable skills,” Mackay said.
“For example, welding. Welding is something you can do as a career in itself but other skilled
trades, such as a mechanic, may use it too.”
Skills Ontario currently has
three trucks available to cover events in Southwestern Ontario.
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
The Skills Ontario trailer was a popular draw at Chatham-Kent’s recent job fair. More than 1,000 went through the trailer to sample some of the techniques they could experience if they went into the trades. Haley Mackay and Rick Mackenzie are part of the Skills Ontario team.
Opinion
Of tariffs and measles
U.S. President Donald Trump is flip-flopping on his tariffs against Canada and Mexico so often that one wonders if he or some of his oligarch buddies are benefitting from speculating on the stock market.
Trump put the tariffs in place for two days last week, then abruptly pulled most of them back, after the stock markets plunged.
He claims tariffs are going to make America great again, a tired Trump slogan that he conveniently uses for most every decision he makes.
Meantime, real people suffer. Jobs are lost, economic panic sets in; and then he pulls back.
Kudos on Chatham-Kent officials for lobbying people to buy local, shop local. We all should have been doing that for years.
Notice fewer delivery trucks going through your neighbourhood these days? We have. Jeff Bezos of Amazon has enough money in his pockets. Focus local. It benefits us all.
And take the time to understand “local.” Who owns that business? Do they even have an office in Chatham-Kent, let alone a head office?
Look no further than local media. We are one of several independent newspapers in C-K that are headquartered here. There are local radio stations here as well.
One media chain, Post Media, does not have an office in Chatham-Kent and is more than 76% owned by one U.S. hedge fund and a private U.S. investor.
Buy local, shop local.
And a final reminder to local businesses and the municipality: Meta and Google are not local, so utilizing these platforms for advertising while advocating for others to buy local
and shop local is hypocritical.
It’s so preventable.
That’s the word from health officials on the measles.
Get a vaccination. Protect yourself, and others, from exposure.
Simple.
Yet how is it we have measles outbreaks in modern society? The vaccine was invented and introduced more than six decades ago.
According to the World Health Organization, measles is one of the most contagious diseases humans have ever faced. It poses significant health risks.
We came so far. In 2016, North and South America were declared free of endemic measles.
That declaration lasted all of two years.
But the resurgence is not just in lesser-developed countries far south of us. We’re seeing an annoying spike in Canada; in Ontario; in our area.
First, Chatham-Kent Public Health reported potential exposure in the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Emergency Department in late January. Next, this past week, we find that a student had been attending a local school for about a month while afflicted with the measles.
We’re not alone, however.
Public Health Ontario reports that between 2013 and 2023 there were 101 confirmed cases of measles reported in Ontario. In the first two months of 2025, there have been 119 confirmed cases and 23 probable cases of measles in Ontario.
The vast majority of those afflicted were unvaccinated against the illness.
Get jabbed. Get your children jabbed.
Watch dogs are too numerous to avoid
Editor: The snowball of accountability for the council of Chatham-Kent is starting to pick up speed. Very soon it will be so large that members of the council will find themselves in an awkward position of being inside a snowball that wants results along with answers quickly. Already there is talk throughout the areas of the OPP handling an audit of the Chatham-Kent civic expenses to follow a trail of money that has
no visible path or reason. Perhaps heads will roll or not, as the other day somebody asked me if I would sign a petition for Thamesville to leave Chatham-Kent.
I said yes and was told that an official one was being created to sign and a location to sign was in the works. With water and sewer rates going through the roof in Chatham along with all other taxes and
the so-called new city hall to replace an existing one that was built to add more floors for expansion, is of course ludicrous in these hard times of pending tariffs and uncertainty over whether jobs will be lost or not in Canada.
The people of Chatham-Kent are starting to wake up and what they see and hear, and smell is not the country air.
Wayne Robertson Chatham
Get with the program
Editor: I truly feel that Chatham has their own mini version of the situation south of the border. We have a mayor (aka as mini Trump) that is not listening to the taxpayers; we have a council acting like the Republican party in that they won’t challenge or question the leader or administration; and further, we have
a bunch of people with money that are throwing their weight around (aka as Musk) to get what they want in Chatham. But the taxpayers pay the bills.
The Community Hub and many other things in this municipality need to end and council has to
start listening to the taxpayers. Is it any wonder that so many outlying areas want to leave Chatham-Kent? Council needs to get with the program or pay the price.
Rick Williams Blenheim
Respect is earned, Donald Trump
Editor: I saw on TV that Donald Trump was at a NATO meeting and was demanding that officials and nations show him respect.
I quickly remembered Chatham’s own Jamie Bedford (son of a well-
liked and respected long-serving Chatham police officer, the late Jim Bedford). Jamie liked to wear his plain-coloured T-shirt with wording on the front. There were large letters that spelled
What the heck is Trump doing?
Editor’s note: This is an open letter to Donald Trump. Hey Donald, you are one slippery eel to delay the sentencing for all your felony friends until after the election. Now, it’s just swept under the rug… smart move!
Even all your sexual assault cases… gone. Count your blessings that you never tried that with Lorena Bobbitt, LOL. Looks to me that you and Elon are planning to go into the gravel and scrap steel business over in Gaza. The American Riviera will never happen because you won’t live long enough to make
First of all, you want the Palestinians out of there. So that leaves you and JP and Elon. If you guys are planning to clear the mess … just the three of you with a cyber truck … I wish you all the best. Maybe you were planning on using Mexican labour. That is another mistake you made rounding them all up and deporting them. They are hard-working people paying their taxes doing the jobs Americans don’t want to do.
B. J. Mulder Chatham
Letters to the editor policy
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“Respect” and below that it said “Give it,” and then “Get it.”
What simple words and what a powerful message. Poor Mr. Trump. He doesn’t realize that you can’t force or buy respect…you have to earn respect.
Trump will never have respect. His “friends” merely tolerate him. This reminds me of the two fellows standing at the side of the road as a hearse, followed by two cars, was carrying a very wealthy man to his grave. One fellow said to the
other, “Poor man, all he had was money.”
And now we seen Wayne Gretzky (the former Great One) all cozy with Trump. Has Wayne been sucked in by greed? My respect meter has gone from hero to zero for him.
Poor old Gretzky. Now just a rich man. If Alex Ovechkin passes Gretzky for the all-time NHL goal scoring lead, will Trump dump Wayne as he did Mike Pence?
Bill Elders Chatham
C-K to put paving into high gear
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Chatham-Kent is about to explore going into debt to upgrade the municipality’s gravel roads.
A motion directing administration to explore an investment and debenture option – to the tune of $30 million – was put forward by Mayor Darrin Canniff at the March 3 Chatham-Kent council meeting.
Designed to “accelerate” the conversion of gravel roads to either asphalt or tar and chip, the motion passed 16 to 0. According to Canniff, Cha-
tham-Kent is spending about $2 million a year to convert gravel roads. However, he said money can be saved by “locking in the price,” to do more, as the price will only go up in the future.
“From an economic perspective, it makes good financial sense,” Canniff said following the meeting, noting it helps improve the system for agriculture.
“It allows us to increase our purchasing power and get more done sooner.
“We are taking a debenture and putting the roads in place now,” the mayor added, adding inflation on road construc-
tion goes up between eight and 10 per cent a year. Plus, he said, it will save costs on maintenance and gravel and be able to address roads that are in “significantly rough shape.”
Under Chatham-Kent’s current plan, only two to three kilometres of road are paved each year, he said, noting costs will likely double in the not-so-distant future.
South Kent Coun. Ryan Doyle said he agreed with the move. “We can get way better value
for our money now than we can in years down the road, so I think this is a great idea,” Doyle said.
The motion followed a report from infrastructure and engineering director Marissa Mascaro-Amyotte outlining capital projects on tap for 2025.
Mascaro-Amyotte told council that road and bridge assets are among the largest assets the municipality has to manage and plan for.
According to the report, Cha-
tham-Kent has a total of 3,500 kilometres of roadways valued at $3.58 billion. There are 500 kilometres of road in urban areas, valued at $822 million and 3,000 kilometres in rural C-K, valued at $2.76 billion. Assets also include 1,350 bridges and large culverts with a value of $1.16 billion. A total of 46 of those are located in urban areas, with a value of $194 million, with some 1,304 in rural Chatham-Kent, valued at $970 million.
Image courtesy Ronald Debusschere/Facebook
Users of gravel roads in Chatham-Kent, especially in the West Kent area as seen here, say they are in terrible shape. The municipality plans to fast-track upgrades by debenturing.
Encampment will get flood warnings
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Homeless residents living in a flood-prone area near the Third Street bridge in Chatham will be warned if the Thames River rises.
That’s according to Jodi Guilmette, general manager of Health and Human Services for Chatham-Kent.
In response to a question from South Kent Coun. Anthony Ceccacci, Guilmette told council the municipality is prepared.
“Yes, there is a plan,” Guilmette said. “We have worked closely with fire emergency management to make sure we do have a process in place whereby we will be able to notify the individuals who are staying down near the river.”
The municipality will be working to assist in “any
way possible,” she said, adding it is “something that we do monitor and we are staying on top of.”
Discussion around flooding at the encampment rose as part of a presentation about flooding to council by the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority’s (LTVCA) Jason Wintermute.
Wintermute, manager of the LTVCA watershed and information services, described two types of flooding that could occur.
The first, brought on by heavy rainfall or precipitation, gives the authority about two days’ lead time before flooding occurs.
However, Wintermute said the second type that could result from an ice jam is a “little more complicated.”
Wintermute said staff physically observe ice jams when they move or break up as conditions
can change quickly.
“When it jams, then the Lower Thames has to operate some flood control structures and we need to be examining areas where it might potentially flood,” he said.
Wintermute said that when flooding can’t be
averted, residents can prepare for high water.
“A lot of the issues around flooding are about debris,” Wintermute said.
“Debris can block culverts and provide issues with drainage, event with rainstorm type
stuff. If your catch basins are blocked, this causes problems.”
Wintermute said one of the big things to prepare for flooding is to clean up yards and property to ensure there’s nothing that can be tossed around by floodwaters.
According to Wintermute, another good idea is to have 48-hour emergency preparedness kits on hand just in case. Paying attention to communications about flooding is also very important for homeowners, Wintermute said.
Conservation efforts celebrated
The Chatham Voice
A number of local environmentalists were celebrated recently by the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) at its annual general meeting.
In recognition of their outstanding efforts in preserving the health of the Lower Thames watershed, six awards were presented at the gathering held in Ridgetown Feb. 20.
Three plaques were given out in the Volunteer Hero awards category, with the Special Event recognition going to the Lambton and Chatham-Kent Retired Teachers.
Anne Velle and Kathy Flanagan accepted the award on the group’s behalf.
The Environmental Hero award to acknowledge individuals who contribute to environmental awareness and action was presented to John and Jan Everett of London. The couple travels to local schools and special events, including annual appearances at the LTVCA Water Festival to educate students about turtles.
Jan has also written a children’s book about turtle conservation titled ‘Never Give Up.”
The Chatham-Kent & Lambton Children’s Water Festival Committee
According to a media release, the award is given to an individual or a group involved in a onetime or recurring event. Made up of 60 retired educators, the teacher’s group has volunteered at the Chatham-Kent & Lambton Children’s Water Festival for the past 18 years.
was also recognized. After 18 years of leading the event as a volunteer, Don Hector has stepped down. However, under his guidance, a new committee has been formed to ensure the initiative’s ongoing success.
Despite limited time, the committee put together the 2024 event that saw 2,100 students attend.
A handful of Environment Awards to recognize projects committing to environmental sustainability in the community or on private property were also awarded.
Enbridge was named as the Most Dedicated Organization for collaborating with the LTVCA on multiple tree-planting initiatives across Chatham-Kent. Enbridge employee Mark Gagner was given special mention.
The Most Dedicated
Landowner (East) went to Glencoe-area Hadler Farms Inc., which implemented a two-acre tree-planting project.
Chatham’s Bob and Moira Kerr were named as the Most Dedicated Landowner (West) for
transforming a portion of the Flook & Hinton drain into 10 acres of protected space for species at risk.
The annual meeting also saw changes on the LTVCA board. Leamington Coun. Paul Tiessen was elected board chair for
2025-26 as new provincial regulations mean outgoing chair Sara Emons was only allowed to serve a two-year term. However, Emons and Chatham-Kent Coun. Trevor Thompson were elected as vice-chairs.
Chatham Voice photo
The encampment at Rotary Park in Chatham is located adjacent to the Thames River.
NOW BOOKING SPRING LAWN CARE PROGRAMS
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For 43 years, Al Pinsonneault has been dedicated to expanding his business to meet the needs of all of Chatham-Kent. In 2001, Al changed the company’s name to Al’s Lawn and Garden to better reflect the services that the company had begun to offer. Al’s Lawn and Garden is now the one stop shop for all of your landscape needs! Al’s Lawn and Garden is committed to providing the best quality service and price in Chatham-Kent. Our staff of over 40 employees are trained professionals and experienced in taking care of all of your horticultural and landscaping needs with a fleet of trucks equipped with the latest equipment. Our company is dedicated and well equipped to keeping Chatham-Kent beautiful!
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‘Let the voters decide’ letter voted down
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Chatham-Kent council won’t be sending a message to Queen’s Park regarding ousting municipal councillors for bad behaviour.
In a four to 12 vote, a motion by Chatham Coun. Michael Bondy to send a letter to the Ford government opposing tough new legislation, that would see the removal of councillors and possibly prohibit them running again for four years, was defeated at the Mar. 3 council meeting.
The failed motion stated that “ the voting public” should be the only mechanism allowed to remove a “sitting elected government official.”
It also read that “council recognizes that elections alone determine who sits on any municipal council and that practice cannot be undone by unelected bureaucrats and Integrity Commissioners.”
However, because the Ontario government was paused due to the election, the Municipal Accountability Act 2024 that was tabled in the legislature is now dead, making Bondy’s motion a moot point. But the councillor pointed out the proposed bill could resurface under the new government and action should still be taken.
“What I don’t like is what the province wants to do, is it would give the ability for a democratically elected councillor to be removed,” he said, noting a “firewall” is in place at the
municipal level whereby council must have a unanimous vote to proceed with sanctions.
North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville echoed Bondy, noting that a small council could have a mentality to “turn against” the colleague in question. Jubenville said that removing a councillor should only happen if they commit an egregious “criminal” act, adding any decision about holding office should be left up to the electorate.
But the majority of council disagreed.
“I think we need to have a process to hold us accountable,” Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew stressed, adding council has a code of conduct.
Chatham Coun. Brock McGregor also chimed in stating that under current rules, the only way you can be removed from council is if you spend too much on a campaign.
He said that “a lot of the advocacy” for the legislature came from a situation in Ottawa where a councillor committed “incomprehensible” acts of intimation and harassment” as described by the Integrity Commissioner. There was no way to remove the councillor, McGregor said, meaning municipal staff experiencing the harassment had to continue to work with him.
“These rules and changes come about because there’s been really terrible behaviour and there is no mechanism to protect people from that type of behaviour,” he said.
Marking Black Excellence in C-K
The Chatham Voice
A packed house celebrated the second annual Black Excellence Awards & Gala recently.
Part of Chatham-Kent’s Black History Month celebrations, the event honoured the achievements of Black leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, and youth, and one special trailblazer, who are making a lasting impact in the community.
Co-chaired by Doug Robbins, Michelle Robbins, and Shannon Prince, the evening brought together community members, leaders, and supporters for a night of recognition, celebration, and inspiration.
“The Black Excellence Awards & Gala is more than just an event – it’s a movement that ensures the contributions
of Black individuals in Chatham-Kent are recognized and celebrated and elevated,” said Doug Robbins in a media release. “Each nominee represents the hard work, resilience, and brilliance of our community, and we are proud to honour them.”
Yejide Kilanko took home the honour of Citizen of the Year.
Jeral Lumbley of Social Ladybug earned BlackOwned Business of the Year.
Marsaydees Farrell was named Female of the Year, while the Male of the Year honour went to Kyle Wright.
Layla Bardyla received Youth of the Year (Ages 13-17), accolades, while Oluwanifemi Ezekiel Koleosho took Youth of the Year (Ages 18-25) honours.
Agriculturalist of the Year went to Rebecca Smyth.
Derek Quigley was named winner of the Black Excellence in Education award.
Olvie Olbey received the Trailblazer award.
The Black Excellence Awards Committee said all nominees are recognized for their dedication to excellence and their
contributions to making Chatham-Kent a stronger, more vibrant community.
“This event is about acknowledging those who are paving the way for future generations,” said Michelle Robbins. “It’s inspiring to see such a diverse group of individuals excelling in different fields, each leaving a lasting mark on our community.”
Contributed image
From left, Rebecca Smyth, Kyle Wright, Jerel Lumley, Layla Bardyla, Olive Olbey, Marsaydees Farrell, Yejide Kilanko, Derek Quigley, and Oluwanifemi Ezekiel Koleosho celebrate at the recent second annual Black Excellence Awards & Gala, part of Chatham-Kent’s Black History Month.
Farm taxes remain unchanged
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
A bid to increase Chatham-Kent’s farm tax ratio has been shelved once again.
That was the decision reached by C-K council at its March 3 meeting, following a lengthy discussion and several deputations opposing the idea.
And while Wallaceburg Coun. Carmen McGregor was the one who brought the motion to increase the tax ratio forward last year, she said she could no longer support the move due to uncertain economic times.
McGregor’s original motion would have seen the farm tax ratio increase to 23.5 per cent in 2025, followed by an increase to 25 per cent in 2026. However, the new motion she brought forward will see the tax ration remain at 22 per cent until the province’s Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) completes its next round of assessments.
“I can longer support the recommendations, even though I was the councillor that brought it back in August,” McGregor told council. “And I hope when I conclude this, you will agree with my thinking.”
Earlier decisions by council to push back improving gravel roads from a three year to fouryear cycle, as well as suspend the use of dust suppressant on gravel roads factored into her decision, McGregor explained, noting these decisions were made to decrease Chatham-Kent’s base budget to a 4.99 per cent increase.
MPAC has paused its assessment process for several years, leaving Ontario municipalities working off of assessments made in 2016.
The majority of Ontario municipalities – including nearby Lambton
County – have farm tax ratios at 25 per cent.
However, officials remain skeptical of MPAC’s timeline with neither C-K budget chair Brock McGregor or chief financial officer Gord Quinton holding out hope MPAC will re-assess Ontario properties anytime soon.
According to Brock McGregor, the same discussion around farm tax ratios surfaces annually.
“I’m not holding my breath for an MPAC assessment,” the Chatham councillor said. “We talk about it every year. It keeps not showing up.”
Brock McGregor pointed out that other segments
of the population carry a greater tax burden – including businesses –which pay nine times the tax rate of rural and farm properties. He also stressed the issue is a challenge because of what happened at amalgamation in 1998-99.
“Staff maybe politically can’t say it, but I will,” he stated, adding rural Ontario is “financially neglected.
“We need to all put in the same effort to lobby the province to get fair and equitable funding,” he said, adding that “we see massive investments” by government in other sectors and agriculture
should be part of that. In his comments, Quinton said he agreed that the next council should deal with the issue as there is “zero chance” MPAC will complete a new assessment before that time, noting the earliest it could come back is April 2027. Members of various agricultural lobby groups, including the Kent Federation of Agriculture, were on hand to make deputations against an increase. A drop in commodity prices, uncertainty around U.S. tariffs and the reduction of services to rural roads were among the concerns expressed. The motion carried 13-3.
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PARK PLACE
Conservation group celebrates 40 years
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
The Sydenham Field Naturalists (SFN) have come a long way – focus wise and geographically – since their inception 40 years ago, and the diversification is set to continue.
Sherri-Anne Wills, spokesperson for SFN, said the group initially formed with a geological focus. They incorporated in 1987 and eventually shifted to bird watching primarily and shifted into conservation in the 1990s, becoming a charitable organization around that time as well.
“That’s how the Sycamore Woods were saved,” Willis said of the Wallaceburg property. “They (SFN) also helped with the Sydenham River Nature Reserve. We’ve been saving that area and reclaiming it as a natural resource.”
The nature reserve is lo-
Baha’i
cated south of Alvinston and is a 288-acre property that is rife with Carolinian species native to southwestern Ontario.
Sycamore Woods is an 11-acre parcel of Carolinian Forest in Wallaceburg.
SFN has roots in Wallaceburg, but over the past 40 years the group has spread across Chatham-Kent and is into Lambton County.
With “Sydenham” in their very name, it’s no surprise SFN has a focus on the Sydenham River. Willis said it’s part of an incredibly diverse ecosystem.
“The Sydenham is one of the most diverse rivers in the world. In terms of variety, there are more mussels, more fish in the river than most rivers have,” she said.
Wills said the goal of SFN is to preserve native species and re-introduce them wherever and whenever possible.
“We find that native spe-
invite all to celebration
The Baha’is of Chatham-Kent invite the public to celebrate the Baha’i New Year on March 22. The celebrations take place between 5:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. at the Thames Campus Arena.
Organizers stress the event embraces global unity and inclusivity.
Community, religious or ethnic groups attending are asked to bring or share a dinner dish or dessert from their native country.
The event promise to be
a night of celebration of all countries, cultures and religions of the world. A potluck dinner, a brief program, entertainment, games, fun and dance are on the program. There is no cost to attend. For groups, the Bahai ask that you RSVP the number attending from your community by March 20, either by email chathamkentbahais@gmail.com, or over the phone to 519358-3447.
cies are better for our environment because they have lived here for thousands of years and are more adaptive to climate change,” she said.
The introduction of invasive species can be devastating, and it can cause chain reactions. For example, some plants will thrive and wipe out native plants, which can negatively impact insects who pollinate and are food for birds. The eco system changes as a result.
Spreading the word is important for SFN.
“We take our mission very seriously,” Wills said. “We want to expand further. We’re showing up to raise awareness at different events, including the (Chatham-Kent & Lambton) Children’s Water Festival and the Dresden (Night) Market.”
The organization is celebrating its 40 years by hosting a special guest speaker at its banquet this
year. Kathy Johnson, a producer for PBS’s Great Lakes Now, will present “Livers of the River,” focusing on freshwater ecosystems and the importance of preserving rivers and lakes.
The banquet takes place April 12 at Retro Suites in Chatham. The event will feature a fundraising auction, door prizes, and a chance to learn more about SFN’s ongoing projects.
Funds raised will support future conservation efforts, environmental education, and the protection of native biodiversity. Wills encourage residents to embrace conservation.
“If we don’t’ nurture nature, nature can’t nurture us,” she said. “When we disconnect from nature, we’ve basically disconnected from ourselves.”
Learn more about SFN’s projects, events, and how to get involved at sydenhamfieldnaturalists.ca.
The Chatham Voice
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“I just wanted to thank you and the attentive and caring staff for your outstanding care that you’re giving Mom. A night and day difference with her previous residence. Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas and healthy and happy New Year. Please pass our thanks on to all. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
“Let me start off with saying how happy my family and I have been with the care my mother, Dorothy Parker, has received since moving to The Maples. Every person we have interacted with has been kind, caring and compassionate. Not living in Chatham myself, I can’t tell you the peace it brings me to know she is treated with dignity, and respect when we can’t be with her.”
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Hike sets $150,000 goal
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
March’s uneven weather means spring is almost here, and that also means the annual Hike for Hospice is also just around the corner.
The ninth iteration of the Hike for the Chatham-Kent Hospice is slated for May 4 at Mud Creek Trail in Chatham.
Jodi Maroney, executive director of the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation, said the foundation set a target of $150,000 this year, despite pulling in $167,500 in 2024.
“We had some really amazing support last year. We were thrilled,” she said. “But you just don’t know if you’re going to get that same level of involvement.”
Ginny Hawken, special events committee chair for the foundation, said the Hike is a way for people to share and respect memories of lost loved ones.
“We invite people of all abilities to sign-up, collect pledges and come together for some family time,” Hawken said in a media release.
Maroney also encourages anyone who has not attended the Hike before to stop by.
“Come out and see what it is all about and learn more about the hospice,” she said. “There’s a lot of meaning to the event. It’s a wonderful way for people to come out and remember and honour their loved one. It’s also a really practical way for others to think about how they can help families; to
see the impact.”
While the hike has many families who have had loved ones go through the hospice as part of their end-of-life care take part, Maroney said businesses get involved as well.
“We really encourage businesses to take part.
It’s a great way to do
community engagement and activities as a team,” she said.
While the in-person event takes place May 4, Maroney said participants are welcome to hike on their own. The trail will be set up from April 28 to May 3 for people to do just that.
Boundary changes mapped
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
A bylaw to officially approve Chatham-Kent’s redrawn ward boundaries was passed by council March 3.
However, at least one C-K councillor wants to make his opposition to the changes known even though it’s a done deal.
“I know this fight’s been lost but I am going to continue to oppose it,” Ceccacci told council, adding he wanted to make sure his comments are on record.
North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville, who started
the ball rolling in 2024 to re-examine ward boundaries and the composition of council, said constituents will be better served under the new system. But she acknowledged some rural residents feel left out.
“There is a lot of concern from the rural areas that because we’ve decreased, the optics are we’ve decreased councillors in the rural areas, but I think that what’s been lost in translation is that Chatham proper itself has grown,” Jubenville told council, noting Chatham councillors will now be responsible for more constituents in South and
North Kent.
In response to a question from Jubenville about actual numbers, CAO Michael Duben said a report will come back to council regarding numbers and how ward funding could be impacted.
Changes imposed by the bylaw come into effect prior to the next municipal election.
But Maroney encourages people to come out the day of the event.
“It’s so nice to have so many people all together for the same cause,” she said. “We’ve worked very hard to make it family friendly. There’s lots of entertainment and activities pre-hike.
Those activities begin at noon, with the run slated to start at 2 p.m.
To register for the Hike, visit hikeforhospiceck. com. Maroney said if people prefer to fill out paper forms rather than online ones, the foundation can accommodate that as well.
Contributed image
Claire skips along Mud Creek Trail in Chatham during the 2024 Hike for Hospice. She was hiking in memory of her grandpa Grant.
Community Events
Thursday, March 13, 2025:
• Retired Workers Chapter Meeting at 10:00am. Keep up to date with things going on in the community, pensions, benefits and the information provided from informed leadership and guest speakers. Spouses are welcome. Unifor Local 127, 405 Riverview Dr., Chatham (lower board room).
• Afternoon Jamboree with all singers and musicians welcome 1-4pm at the Merlin Legion. Come out & enjoy good music & great company. Donations welcome. Call 519-350-8937 for more info.
• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In from 3:30-6:30pm. Come spend some time in a 2SLGBTQIA+ safe space 48 Centre St., Chatham. Hang out, have a coffee, do your homework, ask a question. Get some clothes from our Out of the Closet program! Come & go as you please. All ages & allies welcome.
• The 63rd Annual Lenten Noon Hour Interdenominational Service at Christ Church, 80 Wellington St. W., Chatham (beside the bus depot).12:10pm12:35pm, followed by a sandwich luncheon. The theme this year is “The Power of Forgiveness.” The speaker this week is The Rev. Albert Lambkin, First Baptist Church. Free will offering with proceeds to CK Hospice.
• Join us for two days filled with creativity, community, and amazing local products! 4-8 pm AND March 15th 9am-2pm. Location: St. Clair College HealthPlex, Chatham. Explore unique handmade goods, delicious food, and the talent of our incredible vendors.
• 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.
• Drop-In Pottery Making at C.M. Wilson Conservation Area. 11:00am2:00pm! Create your own small clay pot to take home. $3.50. Parking is $5. Cash is the preferred payment. No need to pre-register! Dress for the weather. Please note that children must be supervised by a guardian at all times.
• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St. from 11am-1:30pm. Daily specials or off the menu available. Everyone welcome.
Friday, March 14, 2025:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00a –1:30pm. Supper served
4:00-6:00pm. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are meat loaf with potatoes, or fish & chips, $14.00 (includes HST). Take out available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Weekly Catch-The-Ace draw is at 5:15pm. Fun Darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
• Merlin Legion delicious pork chop dinner with scalloped potatoes, coleslaw & dessert. $16.50. Call 519-6894884 to book your spot or order your takeout!! Served from 4:30-7pm.
• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St., 11am-1:30pm. Daily specials. Friday night supper is a Meatloaf dinner with potatoes, vegetables, coleslaw and a bun. Dine ins $13, pickups $14. Meals served at 6pm. Everyone welcome. Call 519-352-8291.
Saturday, March 15, 2025:
• Fun Day Euchre Tournament at Branch 18 Wallaceburg Legion, Clubroom. 2 person teams, register 11-11:45, games at noon. $10/person, lunch available.
• 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.
• Smile: Charlie Chaplin in the Silent Movie - The Gold Rush with live pipe organ accompaniment will bring laughter to all. Presented by the Performing Arts at St. Andrew’s United Church, 85 William Street S., Chatham at 7pm for a suggested donation of $20 at the door. All are welcome! For further information call 519-352-0010 or www. standrewschatham.org/music.
• House Plant Swap at the Chatham Branch of CKPL, Community Living Café. Calling all plant enthusiasts! Are your plants having babies? Drop off plants from 10:00am-11:00am, Swap to take place from 11:00am-12:00pm.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 10:00am-9:30pm. Line Dancing 10:00am-12noon. Meat draws at 3:30, 4:30 & 5:30pm. Kitchen open 3:00pm. –6:00pm. Come check out our menu. Entertainment by Good Company from 4:30-9:30. Everyone is welcome.
• Join us at the Merlin Legion for Karaoke Bob 7-11pm. Meal special: 1 lb wings, burger or jumbo hot with beer or alcoholic drink $11.50. Please call 519689-4884 for more information.
• Euchre at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St. Registration is from Noon -1pm. , $10 per person.
Sunday, March 16, 2025:
• Euchre Tournament & Fundraiser at the Kent Cloverleaf Conservation Club, Entry $20/pp, must be 19 yrs, Top 3 Win Cash Prizes! 9092 English Line Chatham, preregistration by emailing; secretary@ kccc.ca, or calling 519-401-8242.
• The Tribute Quartet concert, a free southern gospel concert. 7:00pm at the St.Paul’s Discover Life building, 450 Park Ave. W., Chatham. All are invited to join & enjoy a great evening of live music.
• Breakfast at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 9amnoon. All meals are cooked to order. Jamboree from 1pm-5pm, $5. Come, dance and enjoy the great sounds of Hired Hand.
Tuesday, March 18, 2025:
• Kent Historical Society meeting at the Chatham Cultural Centre, Studio One, 7:30pm. Ian Trott and his wife will speak to us about their work with the Find-aGrave initiative. They are both photographers and that is how they came to this important work.
• 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 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
Wednesday, March 19, 2025:
• Chatham-Kent Coin Club meeting at the Active Lifestyle Center (7pm8pm), 20 Merritt Ave, Chatham. New Members and guests welcomed. For more info contact President Paul Robb (probb1@cogeco.ca) (289-228-2817).
• Heart Buddies - A monthly get together. A chance to talk and share your experiences of Heart Surgery, Heart Issues, matters of the Heart. For more info 519-354-0070 or thamesviewfht.ca.
• Games Night at Bill’s Place, 2SLGBTQIA+ Community space, 48 Centre St., Chatham. 6:30pm. You are welcome to bring a game to see if others want to play it or play what we have.
• 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. Come check out our other daily specials. We have Fun Darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
Fun Stuff
64. An increase in price or value
CLUES DOWN
1. Works of body art
2. Abba __, Israeli politician
3. A desert in Asia
4. Eat greedily
5. Doomed French queen
6. Beat
7. One who survives on blood
8. As a consequence
9. Counted on
10. Acquired Brain Injury Behavior Science
11. Unclean
CLUES ACROSS
1. Unsheared sheep
5. Rock TV channel 8. Streetcar 12. Concerning 14. Expression of recognition 15. Greek goddess of youth 16. An iPad is one 18. Adult beverage 19. Manning and Wallach are two 20. Makes a petty verbal attack 21. Tyrion Lannister’s nickname 22. Pointed ends of pens
23. Wristwatches 26. Body part 30. Made a mistake 31. Adjusted 32. Turkish honorific title
33. Yell
34. Historic Alabama city
39. Cub
42. Type of sea bass dish
44. To call (archaic)
46. Unfortunate
47. Separate oneself from others
49. Hero sandwiches
50. Former OSS
51. Open spaces in a forest
56. Innermost brain membranes
57. Fortune
58. Hunting expedition
59. Doomed queen Boleyn
60. Peyton’s little brother
61. Type of wrap
62. Scottish tax
63. Soviet Socialist Republic
13. One who does not drink
17. Wild ox of the Malay Archipelago
24. __ student, learns healing
25. Bacterial skin infection
26. Expresses surprise
27. What one says on a wedding day
28. Crony
29. Where you entered the world (abbr.)
35. Unit of length
36. Side that is sheltered from the wind
37. More (Spanish)
38. Autonomic nervous system
40. Violent troublemakers, originally in Paris
41. Statements that something is untrue
42. Greek alphabet letter
43. Suspends from above
44. Popular types of cigars
45. Girls
47. U.S. philosopher and logician
48. Nocturnal hoofed animal
49. Relaxing spaces
52. From a distance
53. Form of Persian
54. Amounts of time
55. Trigonometric function
C-K’s tobacco usage dipping
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
Chatham-Kent continues to slowly butt out.
Jeff Moco, youth engagement co-ordinator with CK Public Health, said stop-smoking efforts and anti-nicotine campaigns in schools are having an impact.
Fifteen years ago, the smoking rate in Chatham-Kent sat at just under 30 per cent, he said. Today, it’s half that. “We’re losing about 1,000 smokers every year, just due to people stopping smoking,” he said. “That’s really, really good.”
Progress is being made in younger age groups, but for people aged 65 and up, smoking cessation is stagnant.
Public Health offers its C-K Stop program, and provides 26 weeks of nicotine replacement therapy for individuals looking to kick the habit.
So far in 2025, more than 100 people have signed up for the program.
It seems to be working, as Moco said after a year, 45.5 per cent of participants have stopped smoking.
Vaping remains a concern, especially among teenagers. Moco said provincial numbers indicate 13.4 per cent of student report having vaped in the past year. That’s down marginally from previous figures.
Public Health goals for 2025 in terms of addressing nicotine addiction include promoting cessation services and increasing the number of people who sign up to attempt to quit, especially in the age 20-44 group; and continuing to educate students against the intake of nicotine.
For years, the federal government has been pledging it has plans to ban flavoured vape products. But to date, no legislation has been passed.
The board of health will be writing a letter to advocate senior levels of government to accelerate the banning of sweet and fruity flavours of vape products.
Piped back in time
The Performing Arts contingent at St. Andrew’s United Church want to take you back in time on March 15; 102 years, specifically.
The show will feature the silent film “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” starring Lon Chaney, and will be accompanied by Juno-award winning organist Ian Sadler on St. Andrew’s historic pipe organ.
Prior to the invention of synchronized sound, many moving pictures were created and shown in theatres on big screens. This era of cinema was popular from approximately 1890 to 1929.
The term “silent film” is a misnomer as these films were almost always accompanied by the live sound of piano, theatre organ or in some cases a small orchestra.
St. Andrew’s is pleased to wel-
come Sadler, organist and director of music at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, Ont., to provide live accompaniment on its historic three manual Casavant pipe organ that was built in 1923 thus making this the 102nd anniversary of its installation in the church’s sanctuary. Before and since immigrating to Canada in 1980, Sadler, a native of England, has served as music director and organist at various churches and cathedrals, presented organ concerts and conducted choirs internationally.
The Hunchback of Notre Dame is an historical drama based on Victor Hugo’s 1831 novel of the same name.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the March 15 show. Donations (suggested $20 per person) will be gratefully accepted at the door. All donations support the music program at St. Andrew’s.
Image courtesy Metro Creative Graphics
The number of people in Chatham-Kent who smoke is half of what it was 15 years ago, according to CK Public Health figures.
The Chatham Voice
New alert messaging system in C-K
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
There’s a new tool to help Chatham-Kent residents stay safe.
Donald Broadbent
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Helen McDougall
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84, Thursday February 27, 2025
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Officially launched at the Mar. 3 council meeting, CKAlert will keep residents apprised of emergency conditions or threatening weather. The voluntary system allows residents to sign up for texts, emails or phone calls to let them know how to prepare in real time.
“An extremely easy and convenient way for resi-
OBITUARIES
Dennis DeJager
81, Saturday, March 1, 2025
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Pieterke “Pat” DeBoer
101, Sunday March 2, 2025
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Marilyn Belcoure
62, Saturday, March 1, 2025
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Amber Knight
44, Saturday, March 1, 2025
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Frances Lucille Longe “Frankie”
87, Monday, March 3, 2025
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Lee Ellis
66, Friday, February 28, 2025
McKinlay Funeral Home
Linda Ann Lauzon
66, Friday, February 28, 2025
McKinlay Funeral Home
Marie Whittington
97, Sunday, March 2, 2025
McKinlay Funeral Home
Jim McBrayne Sunday, March 2, 2025 McKinlay Funeral Home
dents to receive emergency notifications,” C-K corporate communications director Eric Labadie said of the new tool. “We are always concerned about reaching as many people as possible in the shortest amount of time possible.”
Joanne Greaves
51, Wednesday, March 5, 2025
McKinlay Funeral Home
Margaret Ellen Smith
95, Saturday, March 1, 2025
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Theresa Mary Regan
97, Wednesday, February 26, 2025 Nicholls Funeral Home
Arthur “Brent” Charron
79, Wednesday, February 26, 2025 Nicholls Funeral Home
Joan Finkbeiner
91, Saturday, March 1, 2025 Nicholls Funeral Home
Marjorie Anne Baillargeon 84, Sunday March 2, 2025 Nicholls Funeral Home
Darleen Pratt
68, Sunday March 2, 2025
Kendrick Funeral Home
Hermione Lewis (Harvey) Sunday, February 23, 2025 Life Transitions
Margaret Weierstall (Kopittke) Friday, February 28, 2025 Life Transitions
Various topics are covered under CKAlert, including flooding, boil water advisories, emergency bridge closures, and more. Unlike the Federal Alert Ready system, Chatham-Kent residents will not receive notifications unless they sign up for the service.
Labadie said that one of the highlights of the system is that its technology allows officials to pinpoint affected areas and warn those residents specifically.
“We are able to geo-locate the exact places and send information to just those residents,” he explained, noting the sys-
tem allows people to get information first-hand rather than through a neighbour or social media.
“You can get it directly from us, a trusted and reliable source, right to the device of your choosing.”
Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue Chief Chris Case offered kudos to Labadie for bringing the system online a month ahead of schedule in preparation for the potential of flooding risks.
Residents can visit ckalert.ca or go to the municipality’s website to sign up. The service is free for the next five years thanks to provincial funding secured by Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue.
Organization celebrates 50th
The Chatham Voice
What a Tribute.
The Tribute Quartet will play in Chatham on Sunday to help the Chatham Christian Centre and its supporters celebrate the centre’s half-century mark.
The concert starts t 7 p.m. at the St. Paul’s Dis-
Susan Podolinsky (Atkinson) 67, Sunday, March 2, 2025 Life Transitions
Wesley Colby Monday, March 3, 2025 Life Transitions
cover Life Building at 450 Park Ave. W. in Chatham. This will be the Tribute Quartet’s only Canadian stop on the group’s current concert tour.
The Chatham Christian Centre has been worshipping God and serving others in Chatham-Kent and beyond for 50 years.
March
Break 2025
Come out and enjoy TJ Stables Winter Wonderland! Horsemanship lessons and EAL in the mornings, riding in the afternoons, and a whole lot of Winter activities in between. Spend time with the Little Critters, feed and care for the animals, go tobogganing, and enjoy this new season of the farm!
Classifieds
Obituary
McBrayne: James Roy
James McBrayne passed away peacefully Sunday March 2nd at CKHA Hospital in Chatham. Reunited with loving wife Betty. Loving father to Randy (Claudette) McBrayne, James Jr. (Gail) McBrayne, Brent (Lou Anne) McBrayne. Grandpa to seven grandchildren, Shelly Baker, Kelly Thompson, Dean McBrayne (Lauren), Donald (Ashley) McBrayne, Mitchell (Aya) McBrayne, Dylan (Paulina) McBrayne, Tyler (Ming) McBrayne, ten great grandchildren, and two great, great grandchildren. After graduation from high school, Jim graduated from the GM School for Business in Flint Michigan and began work at McBrayne Motors in Thamesville. In 1961, they began Thames Transport, he drove truck and co-managed the company until 1971. He worked for 5 years for Agriculture Canada arranging employment for migrant workers. In 1978 Jim and Betty and friends bought The Outpost Lodge in Thessalon, Ontario, managing that until 1985. At this point they moved home and Jim began his career as village lead hand in Thamesville until his retirement. Jim was always involved in local politics, being a councillor and Reeve for Thamesville. In 1971 he was elected Warden of Kent County. Jim and Betty loved to travel, with their dear friends the Houstons, and in their camper with a lab dog at their side. Jim was an avid hunter and loved sport shooting, especially cowboy style. He was married to our Mom 8 days short of 70 years. He was a wonderful father, grandfather and great grandfather, he will be greatly missed. Our special thanks go to the staff at Chatham Retirement, and Riverview Gardens for the love and exceptional care our parents received. Jim’s wishes were to be cremated. The family invites friends to join them at the Thamesville Royal Canadian Legion Branch 367, 32 Victoria St, Thamesville, ON for a Celebration of Life to honor Jim on Saturday April 19, 2025 from 1:00pm - 5:00pm. Donations made in memory of James to the Royal Canadian Legion - Thamesville Branch 367, The Heart and Stroke Foundation or The Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation 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.
Sundays 11am and 7pm. Wednesdays 7pm, Friday 7pm. Old Hymns and KJV Preaching Go to chathambaptistchapel.com to watch sermons. Announcement
Chatham Baptist Chapel
“Come Out, Join Us”
Phone 519-854-1355
We are a support agency providing care in Chatham-Kent. Seniors or adults with disabilities. Companionship, homemaking, meal preparation, light housekeeping, personal hygiene, nurse medication prescriber, etc. Confidential personal assessments. Call HOMECARE ON WHEELS. We are also hiring community caregivers, homemakers, PSW’s, RN’s and RPN’s. Phone 519-854-1355.
Carriers Wanted
Obituary
Lucy Iannicello
With broken hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved wife, mother and grandmother, Lucy Iannicello (nee Longo), on March 1, 2025, at the age of 74. After a courageous battle with cancer, she left this world in the comfort of her own home, surrounded by love. Born on March 10, 1950, in Molinara, Italy, Lucy was a shining light to everyone who knew her. At the age of three, she embarked on a ten-day voyage to Canada, holding her mother’s hand as they sailed across the ocean to reunite with her father, who anxiously awaited their arrival. The family settled in St. Catharines, where Lucy grew up, spending her days studying, helping her parents around the house, and enjoying precious time with her best friend and sister, Carm. At 19, Lucy began her teaching career at Denis Morris High School. In 1972, she married her one true love, Dan, and together they moved to Chatham to begin their life together. Lucy would go on to spend the rest of her teaching career with the Lambton Kent District School Board, where she took great pride in serving her students and their families. Motherhood and grand motherhood were Lucy’s greatest joys; her four children and nine grandchildren were her world. She was the heart of her home, offering unwavering love, guidance, and support to all who knew her. Even in the face of illness, Lucy remained a beacon of grace and strength, displaying quiet courage and fierce determination. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth where everyone felt seen, heard, and loved. Lucy’s smile, bright eyes and nurturing spirit will be deeply missed. Yet her legacy of resilience and love will forever live in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to be touched by such a remarkable woman. Lucy is predeceased by her parents, the late Incoranata (Baldino) and Donato Longo. She will be forever missed by her children; Daniella (Tony) Mancusi, Joanna (Shawn) Gee, Erica (Scott) Rutgers and Diodoro (Mercy) Iannicello. Loving Nonna to Lucia, Francesca, Cora, Adrian, Luisa, Claudia, Catharine, Matteo and Nico. Loving sister Carm (Gary) Oblinsky will miss her deeply. Also sadly missed by her in-laws, Lucy (Frank) Pranovi. Friends and relatives visited at the Hinnegan Peseski Funeral Home Ltd., 156 William St. S. Chatham from 2-5 PM and 6-8 PM on Wednesday March 5, 2025 and 10:30 AM-11:30 AM on Thursday March 6, 2025. A Funeral Mass was celebrated on Thursday March 6 at 12:00 PM in St. Joseph’s Church. Cremation followed the mass. Donations to the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation or the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation would be appreciated. Restpeacefully,Mom.Wewilltreasureeverymoment wehadwithyouandyourlovewillremaininourheartsforever.
This week’s puzzle answers. Puzzles on page 20
For Sale
MOVING. Garage full of tools. 1 pc. bundle, all. 519352-5357.
Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Readyto-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-3543411
GUITAR LESSONS available. Novice and advanced. Call Dan 519-9172339. Guitar Lessons
Wanted
Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-7278894.
Help Wanted
Bar & Dining Supervisor
Maple City Country Club, a private golf club in Chatham-Kent ON, is seeking an experienced Bar & Dining Supervisor to oversee the front of house operations of our bar and dining room. The ideal candidate will have a passion for the hospitality industry, exceptional leadership skills, effective communication skills, and a strong understanding of food and beverage service. As the Bar & Dining Supervisor you will be responsible for creating a welcoming atmosphere while ensuring high standards of service and quality.
This is a seasonal full-time position, March to November.
Application Deadline: March 24, 2025
For further information about this opportunity, please visit our website at: www.maplecitycc.com
blulighttaxi2017@gmail.com
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. Puppies
The Chatham Voice is looking for carriers in the areas of McKinnon/Kerr, Baldoon/Finch, Craven/Coatsworth, Dove/Cardinal, Pheasant, Dale/Veranda, Garden Path/Dahlia . Carriers are given 3 days each week to complete their routes. Give Michelle a call at 519-397-2020 or email her at michelle@chathamvoice.com for more info!
