Fire ravages Bothwell
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Bothwell residents are picking up the pieces following an early morning blaze that gutted three businesses on Main Street Friday.
Firefighters arrived shortly before 3 a.m. – mere minutes after a resident reported the blaze. But due to the fire’s ferocity, little remains of the Bothwell Diner, a second-hand shop known as Mrs. A’s General Store and the town’s post office building.
COMPANY
According to Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue Chief Chris Case, a citizen reported “50-foot flames” coming out of a pizzeria at 2:47 a.m. “Bothwell firefighters were on the scene within six minutes,” said Case of the volunteer response. “They found a very developed fire in the pizzeria (diner), and it had spread to the general store and post office.” Case said the team called for backup, and a total of 40 volunteer firefighters from Highgate, Thamesville and Ridgetown joined Bothwell in the effort.
No one was injured in the fire that caused an estimated $3 million in damages.
Ironically, the blaze occurred only yards from the community’s fire hall, and assistant Fire Chief Adam Walters, who lives in Bothwell, quickly arrived on scene. Cold temperatures and the fact a natural gas line was supplying the buildings compounded the problem.
Continued on page 3
JoDee
Jennah
Image courtesy Chatham-Kent Fire Service
Firefighters battle an early morning fire on Friday that gutted three downtown buildings.
$3 million in damage after fire
Fire guts three buildings in the heart of downtown Bothwell
Continued from page 2
Enbridge workers had to be called in to shut down the line.
Case said an excavator was brought in to help firefighters get to the heart of the blaze. Demolition was required to fully douse hotspots and make the structures safe for operation.
The fire was extinguished by 10.a.m. The front and a side wall of the post office remained standing, however, an acrid jumble of rubble is all that remains of the other two buildings.
Officials said the teams had cleared the scene by noon and, based on statements taken at the scene, the fire’s cause has been ruled accidental.
Case lauded the efforts of fire-
fighters.
“I am humbled by the work of the volunteer firefighters,” he said. “They were there all night. Some of them then went to work, because they have other jobs. It was a big team effort.”
The blaze evoked an emotional response from many on social media.
“Our little town has been devastated by the loss of three businesses on our Main Street this morning,” wrote Crystal Ashburn, who identified herself and her family as the former owners of Mrs. A’s General Store for 20 years, ending in 2020.
“Prior to that we owned Mrs. A’s Cafe (The Bothwell Diner.) My husband and friends work
at Canada Post. It was heartbreaking to watch. It’s an emotional day in our town.
“Thinking of all the owners, our community and glad everyone is safe. Thank you to all the fireman for your hard work. We lost some history today but we are Bothwell Strong.”
“Heartbreaking for Bothwell,” wrote Rhonda McLean on Facebook. “Kudos to all the fire departments who worked on this.”
“Terrible loss for the town,” said Stan Gammage, “but thanks no one was injured.”
“Such a tragedy to our little town,” Loraine Shaw stated.
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
The devastation after the fire on Jan. 17 in downtown Bothwell is clearly shown in this image.
Phone, Internet clipped repeatedly
However, vandalism brings out the best in Dresden
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Three times since Dec. 28. That’s how often Bell Canada wires have been severed in Dresden, cutting off the utility’s phone and Internet service north of the Sydenham River.
And while the repeated interruptions have left folks reeling, they also highlight the town’s community spirit.
Francis Brown, co-owner of Brown’s Esso on
George Street North said the cuts created a major headache for the gas station, but the Browns managed to overcome because they’re part of a small town.
“We had no Internet, we had no phone, we had no debit,” Brown explained. “It wasn’t ideal, but we were still able to operate.”
Brown said they simply trusted their regular customers who couldn’t pay by debit, and made up bills they could come and pay later.
“We lost a lot of money,”
Brown said of the three incidents he attributes to vandalism. “I hope they catch them and they do something with him, not just catch and release.”
It was a similar story at nearby Ellis Motor Products. According to Rob
Ellis, son of owner Bob Ellis, the lack of service interrupted the normal course of business, but because they know their customer base, they opted to trust people to come back and pay.
The disruption also cre-
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ated problems at Burn’s Restaurant. Staff member Andrew McDonald said the service breakdown heavily impacted the takeout aspect of the business – a mainstay for the popular eatery.
McDonald explained that owner Rob Burnett had to leave his personal cellphone at the business to keep things rolling.
He too has heard the interruption in service was the result of vandalism.
“I’ve heard that someone has been identified but I don’t know for sure,” McDonald told The Voice. “They either wanted the copper or they wanted to prove a point.”
A request for information about the Dresden Bell outages to the Chatham-Kent Police Service went unanswered as of press time.
Dresden BIA chair Christal Wills agreed the cut wires created a “very big inconvenience” for many.
“People just made do,” said the owner of McKellar’s Flowers, a down-
town business that was not affected. “I feel for the ones who don’t have Internet.”
According to Wills, Bell technicians have become a familiar site at the base of the bridge on the river’s south side, working around the clock to restore power during the three disruptions.
When contacted by The Voice, a Bell Canada media relations spokesperson, said the cuts in service can be blamed on copper wire theft.
“Bell’s infrastructure in the Dresden area has unfortunately been hit by a few separate incidents of copper theft,” Patricia Garcia said in an email message, leading to theoutages.
According to Garcia, copper theft continues to rise, noting Bell has experienced more than 1,700 security incidents to its network since Jan. 2022.
“We ask anyone who witnesses suspicious activity near telecom infrastructure to contact local law enforcement, she added.
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Francis Brown of Brown’s Esso in Dresden says wire vandalism in Dresden has been a big inconvenience lately. On three occasions since Dec. 28, lines have been cut.
Music for the Mind show Feb. 7
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
On Feb. 7, the music will permeate the minds of many.
And that’s just how Elisha Banks likes it.
Banks, founder of Music for the Mind, said the fundraising organization’s next concert is slated for Feb. 7 at the Portuguese Canadian Social Club on Grand Avenue in Chatham. The show
will feature performances from Just Us, 40 Hours Over, 89 Next, Big Shiny Toons and DJ Shawn L.
On top of that, there will be a silent auction and a 50/50 draw.
Banks said funds raised will once again support Family Service Kent, and its KIDS Team program, but money will also support the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent.
“The funds going to the
centre will help FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) assessments,” she said. “It’s a nice new addition to what we’re trying to do in our community.”
People with FASD can have issues with such things as learning, memory, attention, social skills, communication and regulating one’s emotions.
The funds that head to Family Service Kent
will help pay for minimal-fee counselling for people aged six and up and aid in covering the cost of psychological assessments for children up to age 18.
As for Feb. 7, Banks said the lineup of local bands is “epic.
Elisha Banks
“It’s going to be a big party at the Portuguese
Club. Five hours of non-stop music and dancing,” she said. “Fingers are crossed for another soldout concert.”
Last year’s winter show drew a packed house of about 400 people and raised $16,000. It was one of several events for the organization in 2024.
This time around, Bank’s
sixth Music for the Mind fundraising rodeo, she said she is not setting an end-of campaign monetary goal, preferring to focus on each event.
“My goal is to kill every event that we do. I’m taking this year one event at a time,” she said.
Tickets for the Feb. 7 19plus event are $25 dollars, and are available online at fareharbor.com.
Doors open at 7 p.m.
More info wanted on deputy CAO job
The proposed hiring of a deputy chief administrative officer for Chatham-Kent is coming under the microscope at the Jan. 27 council meeting.
Chatham Coun. Alysson Storey brought a notice of motion on the potential hire at last week’s council meeting. She’s asking for an administrative report detailing a job description
for the new role, financial analysis of the position and comparators with other municipalities. If the position is filled, Storey would like to see council’s oversight relating to performance and
compensation on the position.
The news that the municipality was considering hiring a deputy CAO became public after a job advertisement was posted on Indeed. The annual
salary for the role is listed as between $196,476 to $240,957 annually. The cost is not part of the 2025 budget.
C-K CAO Michael Duben has said the role is part of succession plan-
ning to help train his potential replacement when he decides to step away or retire.
The hire has not been discussed by council publicly but was part of a closed agenda session.
The Chatham Voice
Opinion
Bothwell
Talk about a time of juxtaposition.
As a petition circulates in the Bothwell area advocating for separating the community from Chatham-Kent, more than three dozen volunteer firefighters from various parts of C-K team up to battle a large fire in that community’s downtown.
The $3 million fire broke out Friday in the early morning hours. By the time it was doused hours later, three downtown Bothwell buildings were essentially wiped out.
Little remains of the Bothwell Diner, Mrs. A’s General Store and the post office.
About 40 volunteer firefighters from Bothwell, Thamesville, Highgate and Ridgetown worked together to battle the fire.
This at a time when a group of citizens is sending a petition around Bothwell seeking to leave C-K and join Lambton County.
It’s been nearly three decades since the Mike Harris government forced amalgamation on Kent County and all its communities. It was a rough ride initially, and everyone has complaints, but we have come a long way in 27 years.
Bothwell stands on the edge of Chatham-Kent, and is a gem of a com-
munity, much like many others of its kind here. The people look out for one another, support each other and local events with a passion.
To see that community character leave the municipality would be sad. But surely discussion can help prevent the process from occurring?
At issue, according to dissidents, is a perception the municipality does not care about Bothwell.
The reality is people in every community or former township have something about which to complain.
Chatham does not have its fair representation around the council table, at least based on population, for example. Bridge replacements on lightly travelled rural roads cost people who never drive on them. Funds spent in Wallaceburg for municipal improvements are paid for by us all.
In other words, it takes a collection of all of us to make C-K work. It’s not a perfect municipality; in fact, there is no such thing. The uniqueness of every Chatham-Kent community is what helps the heart of C-K beat.
Improving one area can help all of us. Ignoring one area, however, can ultimately hurt us all too.
So too can listening to false statements over facts.
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Is Chatham-Kent hiring a second CAO?
Editor: Our current CAO is one of the highest paid CAOs in Ontario at $320,000 yearly. That’s about $1,230 per day, almost what a person on disability would receive in a month in Ontario.
In addition to his $320,000 salary, there is an added amount of tax dollar payout called employee burden cost, a cost to keep an employee on the payroll with vacation, pension, medical and so on.
The second or assistant C-K CAO will cost about $220,000 in annual salary plus more employee burden again.
C-K has previously assigned one of its general manager’s as acting CAO to take the reigns when our full-time CAO was absent. I don’t know why this model is no longer valid, especially when
there was no additional cost using a GM for a stand-in CAO.
About 45 per cent of C-K’s total budget of about $444 million is already paid in wages. I don’t know if that includes the employee burden costs.
reducing the size of its government, Chatham-Kent is increasing its government model.
Every taxpayer should be connecting with their council member to this matter.
Taxpayers should be aware council cannot give up its right to oversee all senior staff nor can any previous council decision override any current council. Council has an obligation and is free to consider anything at any time with a simple majority vote. Why did council approve this hire?
At a time when municipalities should be
My experience with provincial and municipal government over the decades demonstrates no existing legislation compelling local governments to be open, transparent and subsequently accountable. I suspect local governments like Chatham-Kent, not having the province breathing over their shoulder to hold them to account, may be more apt to do what they want, as there is no consequence for their behavior.
A CAO’s job is to find and implement cost savings, not increase costs.
John Cryderman Chatham
Tariff threats hit close to home
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
Incoming U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to impose steep tariffs on Canadian goods has already been felt locally.
Stuart McFadden, director of economic development for the municipality, said some potential new industry has hit the pause button on development plans.
“We’ve had a number of companies especially in the EV (electric vehicle) market, working with the province or the federal government. We’ve been told they’re going to take a pause until they better understand what might happen,” he said. “They’re going to hold off
New doc in C-K
on any major investment until they better understand the possible ramifications.
Trump has threatened a 25-per-cent tariff on all Canadian goods heading south unless Ottawa improves border security.
McFadden said the sabre rattling has had an impact.
“All of a sudden he drops a bomb (tariff threat) and we came up with $1.3 billion with increased border security,” he said, referring to the federal government increasing spending on border security and our immigration system in mid-December.
McFadden said any informa-
tion economic development receives from senior levels of government is being proliferated with local manufacturers and producers.
“We are sharing information received from the province as it arrives as well to keep people informed,” he said.
McFadden hopes what Canada has done to date will placate Trump, or someone close to him reminds the president that any tariffs on Canadian goods will hamper his citizens.
“Let’s just keep hope that common sense will prevail and the new president is reminded by industry leaders the impact of such a move would have on
prices on both sides of the border,” he said. “The impact on the U.S. would be incredible as well.”
Canadian politicians are reacting to the tariff threats, regardless of political stripes.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford, a Conservative, suggests Canada hits back if tariffs are imposed against Canadian goods hitting the U.S. market.
“When they attack our country, when they attack our people, when they attack the jobs of hard-working Canadians, you cannot sit back and say, ‘Keep on attacking,’” he said. “You have to hit back with every single tool in our toolbox.”
That could, according to federal officials, include the suspension of oil exports to the U.S. Canada sends about four million barrels of oil to the U.S. every day. Many American refineries are heavily dependent on Canadian heavy crude oil. Stopping the flow could seriously impact the American economy.
Trump was to take office on Jan. 20. He has stated he quickly wants to implement tariffs on a number of countries, including Canada.
Part of his reasoning is to force Canada to crack down on his perceived flow of illegal drugs and migrants into the U.S.
Chatham-Kent has a new pediatri
cian.
Dr. Harkirat Bhullar is now practising at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.
“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Bhullar to CKHA,” Dr. Zeke Milkovic, acting chief of staff with the CKHA, said in a media release. “He is an experienced, community-oriented physician and will be a great addition to our hospital, making a positive impact on the families in our community.”
Bhullar brings medical experience from India, where he practiced in several hospitals from 2009 to 2021. He pursued additional training in Alberta, completing a Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship at the University of Calgary.
Bhullar relocated to Ontario earlier this month to join the CKHA.
“I am thrilled to join the compassionate and dedicated team at CKHA,” Bhullar said. “Providing comprehensive pediatric care to families in the community is a privilege, and I look forward to building meaningful relationships while contributing to the health and well-being of children in the region.”
He is accepting patient referrals. Primary care providers can fax referral requests to 519-358-1586.
The Chatham Voice
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Hydro line done early, under budget
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Hydro One’s new Chatham to Lakeshore Transmission Line has plugged in a year ahead of schedule.
Energized last month, the new line adds approximately 400 megawatts to the grid – enough to power the City of Windsor – in support of Southwestern Ontario’s agri-food and manufacturing industries.
Ontario Minister of Energy
and Electrification Stephen Lecce, along with other dignitaries, made a special trip to Chatham-Kent recently to unveil the $237-million line, pointing out its early finish has saved $30 million.
Lecce, who oversaw Ontario’s recently approved Energy Affordability Act, stressed that when a project is on time and under budget, it boosts public confidence.
Ontario Minister of Energy and Electrification Stephen Lecce travelled to Chatham-Kent for the unveiling of the Chatham to Lakeshore Transmission Line. The 49-kilometre line aimed at boosting the region’s electricity supply, was completed a year ahead of schedule. Lecce, left, is joined by Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey, Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff and Hilda McDonald, warden of Essex County and mayor of Leamington.
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According to Lecce, the southwest region is seeing “explosive” growth – double the pro- vincial average – with officials predicting the region’s demand for electricity will rise by approximately 75 per cent by 2050.
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“We have massive energy demand in this region,” Lecce stated, a result of what he called the “good work” of municipal councils and the province collaborating to attract and retain investment.
“We are working together to ensure rural Ontario is a viable place to live and work,” the minister said. “It’s good news for growth, good news for jobs and good news for our farmers too.”
Lecce said the line, one of 10 that’s being built
in Ontario, strengthens the government’s goal of providing clean power while curbing costs that ballooned under the Liberal government.
Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff thanked the province for its foresight in preparing for future power demands.
“You’re looking at the future of Chatham-Kent and the whole region,” the mayor said. “We’re going to quadruple the demand in the next 15 to 20 years. If we didn’t have this, we’d have a closed-for-business sign up.”
Construction of the 49-kilometre 230-kilovolt line from Hydro One’s Chatham switching station to the Lakeshore transmission station was completed by Aecon Power Services. The work began in 2023.
David Lebeter, Hydro One president and CEO, said the early completion was a joint effort.
“This project is a shining example of what we can achieve when we collaborate and work together with Indigenous communities, the province, municipalities, residents and landowners to deliver critical electricity infrastructure projects,” Lebeter said.
Another aspect of the new line is Hydro One’s commitment to working with local Indigenous communities. Under the utility’s 50-50 equity partnership model, five First Nations were offered the opportunity to invest in a 50 per cent equity stake in the transmission line component of the project.
A significant portion of the work included services and material purchased from qualified Indigenous businesses and suppliers, a utility spokesperson said.
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Group wants Bothwell to exit C-K
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
The prospect of losing another councillor in East Kent is the “last straw” for Bothwell area residents looking to de-amalgamate from Chatham-Kent.
That’s according to Emery Huszka, the defacto spokesman for a citizen’s group that wants Bothwell to become its
own municipality, exit C-K and join forces with Lambton County.
Huszka is referring to the fact that a ward boundary/council composition review is coming before Chatham-Kent Jan. 27 that could see the number of councillors drop from 17 to 14 – or lower – possibly leaving East Kent with one seat at the council table instead of two.
“It may mean that an-
Bothwell residents are circulating a petition saying they want out of Chatham-Kent.
other rural councillor is lost,” Huszka said. “It’s a further weakening of the rural voice.”
Huszka, a farmer with property in both Lambton County and Chatham-Kent, is one of the
citizens behind a petition asking the province to “release us from Chatham-Kent and allow us
to amalgamate as a lower-tier municipality in the County of Lambton.”
Continued on page 11
Image courtesy of Shawn Bailargeon
‘Bexit’ petition circulating
Continued from page 10 He said the petition got started because people in the Bothwell area are fed up with municipal government, including what they said are a lack of services; cuts to the road budget – including the loss of dust suppressant –and the fact
C-K is going to spend millions on a new community hub in downtown Chatham.
These issues have led to plenty of grumbling in local coffee shops, he added.
government ordered all Kent County communities to amalgamate into single-tier Chatham-Kent, including Bothwell and surrounding Zone Township.
“It was a forced marriage,” Huszka stated, adding the two communities should have been part of Lambton.
“We said, ‘You know, folks, you can complain or you do something about it.’ We see our taxes going up, our rural services are under threat and we don’t like the big-ticket hub project.”
- Emery Huszka
“We said, ‘You know, folks, you can complain or you do something about it,’” Huszka explained. “We see our taxes going up, our rural services are under threat and we don’t like the big-ticket hub project.”
The perennial threat of closing the Bothwell Arena is another sore point, he said.
A former booming oil town, the Town of Bothwell was founded by George Brown in the mid1800s. When it was originally surveyed, it was part of Lambton County, but later became part of Kent County.
In 1998, the Mike Harris
Sixth generation Zone Township farmer Alex Miller, who served on Zone Township council until 1997, is helping spread the word about the petition.
“All of Chatham-Kent’s neighbours are two-tier systems,” he said, adding it would be logical for the Bothwell community to be two tier as well.
Maintaining roads, drainage systems and recreational and emergency response oversight in the East Kent community are issues that need to be better addressed, Miller stressed, noting the community would be better off as part of Lambton County.
East Kent councillor John Wright said he’s “staying neutral” on the issue, but understands the frustration of the Bothwell com-
munity.
“They (the municipality) keep taking, taking, taking,” Wright said. “I can see where they’re (Bothwell residents) coming from. I’m listening.”
The two-term councillor said he’s staying out of the fray because he doesn’t believe sitting councillors should be involved in de-amalgamation.
Morena McDonald, the East Kent councillor who replaced former councillor Steve Pinsonneault, said she’s aware of the Bothwell de-amalgamation movement, but added the issue is provincial.
“I’m aware of the petition and I think it’s important to share their viewpoints,” McDonald said. “Ultimately at this point, it’s up to the province. They did it.”
In an email message, Pinsonneault, now the MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, said he is aware of the petition circulating in Bothwell, noting he “appreciates” the concerns being raised.
“While I cannot predict the province’s position on this specific petition, I believe it is essential for all stakeholders – residents, local leaders, and provincial authorities – to be part of a thorough consultation process,” he said.
“The final decision would depend on a variety of factors, including the potential impact on both the
local and broader regional community.”
Pinsonneault said he will continue to monitor
the situation and is “committed to ensuring that all voices are heard in any ongoing discussions.”
The Bothwell petition can be found in most businesses located on Main Street in the community.
Image courtesy Google Maps
The East Kent community of Bothwell is on the eastern edge of Chatham-Kent.
COLD WEATHER PET TIPS
If it’s too cold for you to go outside, it’s too cold for your pet! Winter’s chill affects animals, just like it affects people. Exposure to harsh conditions can cause serious illness or death to animals, particularly during periods of freezing rain and rapid temperature fluctuations. Canada’s laws require that animals receive adequate shelter and care. Willful failure to provide adequate shelter could lead to prosecution and a fine, jail sentence or prohibition from having custody of animals.
Here are some useful cold weather safety tips:
1. Never leave your pet alone in a cold car. Cars hold in the cold, acting like refrigerators, which can cause your pet to freeze to death.
2. Keep animals away from puddles. They may contain ethylene glycol found in antifreeze which can be fatal if ingested.
3. Keep your pets warm. If it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet. Although some breeds can withstand colder temperatures, it is important to supply adequate housing.
4. Keep your pets away from bodies of water. With melting ice and rising water levels, lakes can be extremely dangerous for you and your pet.
5. Wipe your pet’s paws and underside after being outside. Salt and ice melt can irritate and burn, and also be fatal if ingested.
6. Be aware of cats seeking warmth under vehicle hoods. Try knocking on the hood of your car to scare them away.
7. Don’t let your dog off leash especially during a snowstorm. They can easily lose their scent and get lost.
8. A warm place to sleep. Ensure your pet has a thick, cozy bed or blanket away from any drafts and off the cold floors.
9. Dress for the weather. Use booties and winter sweaters to help keep your pets warm during outdoor excursions.
10. Prepare an emergency pet survival kit. You never know when a storm might keep you from being able to leave the house for extended periods.
Diverse speakers part of farm show
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
A speaker series highlighting top-of-mind issues facing the agriculture sector are on the agenda for Chatham-Kent’s Farm Show to be held Jan. 2930.
It’s all part and parcel of the annual event at the John D. Bradley Centre in Chatham that’s marking its 10th anniversary this year.
Speakers include Jordan Wallace, an advanced solutions technology specialist with GPS Ontario.
Wallace will talk on Optimizing Your Fields: Practical Land Forming Solutions for Enhanced Soil Health and Crop Yield. How the Trump 2025
trade wars may impact Canadian agriculture is the subject that Moe Agostino will delve into. Agostino has 42 plus years’ experience in trading markets, commodity risk management and marketing. He has spent the last 20 years with Farms.com risk management.
Andres Hurtado, co-founder of agriculture drone service company Terranova UAV will also take to the podium to discuss how the latest technology can assist farmers in all aspects of their operations.
The entrepreneur holds a chemical engineering degree, along with a master’s degree in business from the Ivey business school.
Senior Farm Credit Cor-
poration economist Justin Shepherd will also speak touching on the latest in economics. The Saskatchewan native is part of a team specializing in monitoring agricultural production and analyzing global supply and demand trends.
Shawn Brenneman, an Ontario provincial soil and crop director, along with St. Clair Regional Soil and Crop directors, will present the organization’s annual general meeting.
Founded in 1939, the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association is a grassroots not-forprofit farm organization. The association is represented by more than 50 local county and district branches within 11
regions of the province, with a dedicated membership and has significant representation in all commodity groups.
According to farm show sales and marketing representative Sarah Casella, in addition to speakers, the show will again offer
the “latest and greatest” developments in the farm and agriculture industries with some 125 exhibitors participating.
Admission to the show is $10 per person with free admission for age 16 and under.
The show is open from 9
a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 29 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 30.
For a full list of exhibitors and to find out the schedule for the speaker series, access chathamkentfarmshow.com/visitor-information online. The show is presented by OP Productions.
Chatham Voice file photo
Adrian Rivard of Drone Spray Canada shows off the newest addition to his company’s fleet at the 2024 Chatham-Kent Farm Show. The popular show returns to the J.D. Bradley Centre Jan. 29 and 30.
Former Walpole chief compiling his memoirs
By Jim Blake jim@chathamvoice.com
Bill Tooshkenig wants Canada’s Indigenous people to know their power. Now 80 years old, the former four-time Chief of Walpole Island First Nation said he is writing his memoirs to show members of his and other communities the benefits
of having confidence in themselves.
“The idea started when I was looking through scrapbooks and papers I’ve kept over the years,” he said. “Too many of our people don’t allow themselves to have a vision and act on it. We haven’t realized our potential.”
He was a young man working in economic de-
velopment for the band when he became manager of Tahgahoning Enterprises, the band’s fledgling farm operation.
“Don Issac was the chief and we were looking at farming. We found out we were getting $5 per acre to lease our land while land off the Island was being leased for $30,” he said.
Continued on page 15
Jim Blake/The Chatham Voice
Former Walpole Island Chief Bill Tooshkenig is seen with some of the newspaper clippings from his time in office. Tooshkenig is in the process of writing his memoirs.
The power of confidence
Continued from page 14
“Don turned to me and said, ‘Let’s go farming. We can do this ourselves.’”
A manager (Glen Ludwig) was hired for day-to-day operations while Tooshkenig set out to learn.
“I didn’t know anything about farming,” Tooshkenig said. “We hired the right man and I went to Ridgetown to learn about soil and went to Fanshawe to learn about business.”
Fifty years later, Tahgahoning Enterprises farms thousands of acres and is a major economic force in the community.
“We started with about 200 acres. At the time, our people had no economy of any sort,” he said.
Tooshkenig said he is proud that the community added miles of paved roads and water services while he was chief, but even more so of the social and economic changes that took place.
“People who worked for our band or related businesses couldn’t contribute to Canada Pension because the government wouldn’t allow their income to be eligible. We fought for that and won,” he said.
“At that time, a native woman who married a white person gave up her rights. She couldn’t live on the reserve or own land and had none of the benefits of band membership. We passed the resolution through the Assembly of First Nations and got that changed. It was a real battle but it was something I thought we needed to do.”
One of his challenges was an F2 tornado that hit the community in May of 1983, causing $1 million in damage.
“We had adjourned a council meeting for lunch in Wallaceburg and waited for what we thought was a storm to pass. It turned out to be a tornado and when we got back to the Island, sirens were going off everywhere. We checked out the damage, reconvened the meeting and started getting things fixed,” Tooshkenig said.
In 1986, Tooshkenig left the chief’s position for a job in Ottawa negotiating on behalf of native groups for funding.
“I was second in command and I learned that the first thing politicians wanted was to get re-elected.
You have to give them something. Ask for a million, and when they cut it down to half, they can say they cut a great deal,” he said. He later worked in the same role on a provincial level.
Tooshkenig credited Issac as a mentor.
“I worked for Don for five years and he pushed me. He taught me to get tough. Get a project – set a priority – set a budget – put somebody in charge – that’s how you get things done,” he said of the former chief.
“The first time I was elected, I won by five votes. The second time by 120 and the third by 300. We got a lot done. At first, it was easy, too easy. They would do whatever I wanted and I wasn’t always right. We needed to continue to develop our leadership.”
The book contains many characters he met during the years, including a band member and council member known as “Rip Off” and a federal politician known as “Dial a Dollar” for his willingness to provide funds whenever called.
One of the chapters entitled “I Stopped the Queen” relates how the Royal entourage was stopped during a visit to the Six Nations community in the 1980s so Tooshkenig could visit with the chief of the Six Nations and Premier Bill Davis about plans for a Walpole arena.
Tooshkenig said First Nations Communities need to have the faith in their abilities.
“We should have had an arena on Walpole Island in 1959,” he said.
“One of the owners of the ChrisCraft Company was going to fund the whole thing, but the Indian Agent at the time advised council not to do it because he told them we wouldn’t know how to run it.”
The community got its arena in 1986, nearly three decades later.
Tooshkenig credits his wife Shirley (a Walpole council member) with supporting him.
“She’s a good, conservative councillor. She won’t listen to me,” he said with a laugh. “She’s done a good job”
Tentatively titled “An Odessey – Seven Years as a First Nation Chief,” Tooshkenig is finalizing plans for publication sometime this year.
Clearville Park chat on Feb. 10
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Chatham-Kent’s proposed divestment of Clearville Park is up for discussion at the Feb. 10 council meeting.
East Kent Coun. John Wright brought a notice of motion forward at the last week’s meeting, saying details of a potential sale haven’t been properly communicated to the community and residents who use the park.
Public consultation should be carried out, the councillor stressed, before any action is taken to sell as recommended in Chatham-Kent’s latest budget.
“We
Wright said cost-recovery measures to operate the park should be examined by the municipality, as well as divestment options and partnership
don’t sell our public parks. Why would you sell a woodlot that’s not costing anything?”
- Coun. John Wright
opportunities. According to Wright, the Lake Erie property includes a park area, approximately 120 trailers, some permanent, some seasonal, and a woodlot estimated at between 20 to 30 acres. 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.
“We don’t sell our public parks,” Wright said following the meeting. “Why would you sell a woodlot that’s not costing anything?”
Historical records show the park area became an important meeting place
starting at the time of the War of 1812, Wright said. At the time of amalgamation in 1998, local families donated land
to the park, which has some people in an uproar about the potential sale, he added.
Discover the best area shops, restaurants, services and offers right here in your local newspaper!
C-K to seek federal housing cash
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Chatham-Kent officials are hoping for success in the municipality’s second attempt at accessing money from the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation Housing Accelerator Fund.
The application, which came before council last week, required council to approve several recommendations including allowing four units to be created on every fully serviced urban lot up from the three units currently allowed.
According to a staff report, the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) is an application-based program introduced in the 2022 federal budget and is administered by the CMHC. It had an initial funding
allocation of $4 billion until 2026-27 and one application window in 2023.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent applied for the initial round in 2023 but was unsuccessful.
However, an additional $400 million in funding was made available in the federal budget, and officials are hoping to access some of the cash.
According to municipal housing develompent director Ray Harper, the goal of the accelerator fund is to spur the supply of housing across Canada. However, he said that every application that gets approval has “certain agreements” attached to it, including a financial commitment from the municipality.
Ryan Jacques, head of planning services for Chatham-Kent, said the money is being offered
“in exchange” for certain land-use planning changes.
“These grants are available to municipalities to be put towards capital expenditures, such as provision of affordable housing or growth-related infrastructure upgrades such as major water and waste water facilities,” Jacques told council.
“In most urban properties today, zoning exists, and has long existed, which allows three units per property,” Jacques said.
He pointed out that any existing housing unit today can add up to three units as outlined by the province in 2023.
At least one councillor took issue with voting on the application. North Kent’s Rhonda Jubenville said the application is “not fully transparent.”
adding there are many unknowns.
“I’ll just be honest, it scares me, it really does,” Jubenville said, noting it could potentially “change” the landscape of Chatham-Kent.
Jubenville said she didn’t understand why the government wants C-K to permit four units per dwelling, when it already allows three.
“I just think there’s a deeper agenda...I don’t support it,” she said. In response to a question from North Kent Coun.
Jamie McGrail, Jacques said any new units would still have to comply with the municipality’s existing rules.
West Kent Coun. Melissa Harrigan said that while she appreciated the concerns that were expressed, she’s looking at the “big picture,” meaning more
housing will be created in Chatham-Kent.
Council approved the application 16 to 1, with Jubenville as the lone dissenting vote. It’s unknown when the federal government will announce funding approvals, however, Harper said it should happen in the near future and will
be immediately reported to council.
Council also approved a zoning change that will permit four units per property. This comes back before council Feb. 24 for a public meeting.
A draft bylaw outlining the zoning changes will be presented to council at the Jan. 27 meeting.
DOWNTOWN DENTAL
AndersonDr. Ghalli Dr. Saruna Dr. Adel
Image courtesy Metro Creative Graphics Municipal officials will circumnavigate the province and apply directly to the federal government for housing funding.
Notice of Transition
Highway 401 and Bloomfield Road Interchange Improvements (GWP 3117-18-00)
Detail Design and Class Environmental Assessment Study
THE STUDY
The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has retained Stantec Consulting Ltd. to complete the Detail Design and Class Environmental Assess¬ment (Class EA) Study for improvements to the Highway 401 and Bloomfield Road Interchange (GWP 3117-18-00).
THE PROCESS
This project is being undertaken as a Group ‘B’ project under the Class EA for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000) and includes the following proposed improvements:
• Reconfiguration of the Highway 401 and Bloomfield Road Interchange to a Parclo A2 interchange configuration
• Replacement of Bloomfield Road Underpass and Jeanettes Creek Bridge on Bloomfield Road
• Construction of a new bridge over Flook and Hinton Drain at the Highway 401 eastbound off-ramp
• Realignment of Seventh Line West, including removal of the Flook and Hinton Drain Bridge on Seventh Line West, construction of a new carpool lot, and a new connection to Bloomfield Road
THE TRANSITION
Following the 30-day comment period (November 7 to December 7, 2024), this notice informs stakeholders, the public, and Indigenous communities of the decision by MTO to transition the project to follow the Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Transportation Facilities and Municipal Expressways (2024). All comments from the Proposed Transition period have been thoroughly reviewed by the project team, and no concerns with the transition have been identified.
The decision to transition is based on a thorough evaluation of the project's needs and the benefits of the amended Class EA process. Transitioning to the new Class EA process will improve the planning process of projects beyond the Preliminary Design stage, bringing MTO into alignment with best practices observed in other Class EA frameworks. Transitioning from the requirements of the 2000 Class EA to the 2024 Class EA reflects a commitment to optimizing the assessment process by removing redundancies and expediting project planning to facilitate a more streamlined implementation process.
A Transition Record of Consultation has been compiled, documenting comments received during the 30-day comment period, along with responses and details of any meetings. The Record of Consultation is available on the project website. Commitments made during the Preliminary Design phase will be addressed as the project progresses through the design process. Project information will continue to be posted on the project website and opportunities for public consultation are ongoing.
Information on the project, such as study notices, background information, and additional design related information, including the 2024 Class EA process, can be found at www.hwy401bloomfield.ca.
THIS NOTICE WAS FIRST ISSUED ON JANUARY 23, 2025.
COMMENTS
If you have any comments or questions about this notice, or have questions about the study, please contact one of the following project team members:
Adam Barg, P.Eng.
Consultant Project Manager
Stantec Consulting Ltd.
tel: 289-439-0481
e-mail: comments@hwy401bloomfield.ca
Sinisa Sakic, P.Eng.
Project Engineer
Ministry of Transportation
tel: 519-854-9586
e-mail: comments@hwy401bloomfield.ca
All media inquiries shall be directed to MTO’s Communications Branch at 416-327-1158 or mto.media@ontario.ca.
If you have any accessibility requirements in order to participate in this project, please contact one of the project team members listed above. Comments and information are being collected to assist the MTO in meeting the requirements of the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. Information will be collected in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All comments will be maintained on file for use during the study and, with the exception of personal information, may be included in study documentation and become part of the public record.
Holman named to Order of Ontario
By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative
The
Ridgetown Independent
Dr. Margery Holman has earned a number of accolades and awards over her 50-plus-year career as a coach, professor, and administrator. These honour her advocacy for equity and eliminating harassment and abuse in sports. Holman, who was born and raised in Ridgetown, received her most prestigious honour recently when she was named to the Order of Ontario. “It was a total shock and very humbling because there are so many people who have done so many
good things,” she said.
Holman, who lives in LaSalle, is one of 29 recipients of the province’s highest civilian honour for outstanding achievements.
The Order of Ontario is reserved for exceptional individuals who have made a lasting impact on the province, country, and world.
“I would call this the culmination of pulling everything together I’ve done that is meaningful to me throughout my career,” Holman said of the Order of Ontario honour.
In her Order of Ontario bio, Holman “spent over 50 years improving
the Canadian sport landscape by challenging unethical and inequitable conditions, initiating change, and creatively mentoring others to co-create the wide-ranging opportunities for girls and women in sport today.
“Through relentless efforts, she addressed systemic inequities in sport, including sexual harassment, abuse, and hazing, while creating ethical, equitable alternative practices.
“Dr. Holman has impacted thousands of students,
athletes, coaches, and colleagues, who look to her as their mentor on ‘safe sport’ practices locally and internationally,” the statement read.
Holman attended elementary and secondary school in Ridgetown, graduating from Ridgetown District High School in 1965. She then attended the University of Windsor from 1965-69, where she had the distinction of being in the first graduating Physical & Health Education class while also obtaining her Bachelor of
Arts degree.
After graduating, she taught at Kennedy Collegiate in Windsor for one year before returning to the University of Windsor to teach in the kinesiology department, where she taught for 42 years while also coaching the Lancers’ women’s volleyball team for 21 years and serving 18 years as the university’s first director of women’s sports.
While she was teaching and coaching at Windsor, Holman earned a Master of Education degree from Wayne State University and her doctorate from Michigan State University in 1993.
Holman created a landmark course on Gender in Sport and Physical Activity, developed the first employment equity office, and created the university’s first sexual harassment policy. Her emphasis on harassment and abuse in sport, along with hazing education and prevention, led to an International Olympic Committee appointment.
Last spring, Holman was one of six honourees by the May Court Club of Chatham for the 2024 Women of Excellence Awards.
Holman and the 28 other Order of Ontario recipients will be honoured at a ceremony in Toronto.
Holiday Jam raises more than $4,000
ty come out so strongly to support our efforts to help, it means a lot.”
Twenty years in and the community continues to give. That is the message organizers of the 2024 Holiday Jam for Hunger received.
The 20th annual event took place Dec. 28 at Sons of Kent, raising more than $4,000. Organizers said that’s the biggest dollar tally yet for the annual event.
Three bands -- 40 Hours Over, the Dave Trinca Xperience, and the Soul Remedy Orchestra – donated their time and talents to perform for the event.
“I could not be happier with the results,” said Alysson Storey who has organized the event for the past 13 years. “When one in five families are facing serious food insecurity in Chatham-Kent, to see the communi-
And to raise the most money yet, in just a few short hours, is incredibly heartwarming. And this will help a lot of people.”
This musical tradition started in 2004 and has continued every year since (online in 2020 and 2021).
Margery Holman
The Chatham Voice
Contributed image
Alysson Storey, left, of Holiday Jam for Hunger; and Doug Hunter, right, of Sons of Kent; present a cheque to Outreach for Hunger’s Brenda LeClair. The food bank and Hope House Mental Health Network shared the $4,000 from the Dec. 28 event, held at Sons of Kent.
Community Events
Thursday, January 23, 2025:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Col borne St. Chatham from 11:00am-9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00am-1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
• Afternoon Jamboree with all singers and musicians welcome 1-4pm at the Merlin Legion. Come out and enjoy good music and great company. Donation welcome. 519-350-8937 for info.
• Messy Thursdays at 4:30pm at the Merlin branch of the CKPL. Every Thurs. is something new and maybe messy. All ages, no registration required.
• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St. from 11am-1:30pm. Daily specials available as well as a menu. Everyone welcome.
Friday, January 24, 2025:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Col borne St. Chatham 11:00am-9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch 11:00 am-1:30pm. Supper served from 4:00-6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are roast beef, potatoes or fish & chips, $13.00. Take out available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Fun Darts at 7:00pm. Everyone welcome.
• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St. from 11am-1:30pm. Daily specials available as well as a menu. Everyone welcome.
• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St is a Chicken Parmagian dinner with pasta and garlic toast, Dine in $13 and pickup $14. All meals served at 6pm. Call 519352-8291 to order. Everyone welcome.
• Join us for delicious beer battered fish & chips at the Merlin Legion. Serving 4:30-7pm. $12.50 - what a deal!! Call 519-689-4884 for more information.
Saturday, January 25, 2025:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham 11:00am-9:30pm. Line Dancing lessons 10:00am-12noon. Meat draws at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open 3:00pm-6:00pm. Entertainment by Unity Station from 4:30-9:30. Everyone is welcome.
• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In 11:00am-2:00pm. Come spend some time in a 2SLGBTQIA+ safe space 48 Centre St., Chatham. No RSVP needed! All ages & allies welcome.
• Winter Clothing Swap. at Bill’s Place, 48 Centre St., Chatham 1:00-3:00pm. Free Event, Ages 14+. Step into a welcoming space where judgment is left at the door. Our closet is brimming with winter clothing, it’s your turn to dive in! If you are looking for specific sizes or kinds please let us know ahead of time at info@ckpride.com! There’s no requirement to bring items to participate.
• Kent Branch of the Ontario Genealogy Society scanning party 9:30am-12:30pm in their room on the 2nd floor of the Chatham Public Library. Free event. Come and learn how to digitize your family treasures. Everyone welcome. For more info contact: kent@ogs.on.ca.
• Jigsaw Puzzle Swap from 12:00pm3:30pm at the Blenheim branch of the CKPL. From Jan. 21-24, bring in your gently used 100+ piece jigsaw puzzles and receive vouchers for the swap event. Come back on Jan. 25 to trade in your vouchers and find your next favourite puzzles to complete. It’s a great way to refresh your collection while meeting other puzzle enthusiasts.
• 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.
Sunday, January 26, 2025:
• Merlin Legion Classic Country Jamboree 1:30-5:30pm, followed by a perch dinner with potato, coleslaw, veggie plus dessert with tea & coffee. 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.
• Story and Skate at the Ridgetown Arena from 12-1:30pm. 180 Main St. East, Ridgetown. This free skate comes with a story on the rink walls for you to read while you skate around with family and friends. Helmets are mandatory for children 10 and under.
Tuesday, January 28, 2025:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Col borne St. Chatham from 11:00am-9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00am-1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Euchre at 1:00. Shuffleboard or evening euchre starting at 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
• Family Game Nights starting at 4:30pm at the Merlin branch of the CKPL. Stop by the Merlin Branch to play board games. Bring your own or use one of the library’s. Fun for the whole family. All ages, no registration required.
Wednesday, January 29, 2025:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Col borne St. Chatham from 11:00am-9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 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.
• Chatham-Kent Public Library “Café Capers”. Jan 29: Make a Puffball Gnome. Some activities will be challenging, others will get you crafting and still others will be relaxing and fun! Registration not required. Drop by the Library Café from 10:00am-11:00am.
• 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.
Thursday, January 30, 2025:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Col borne St. Chatham from 11:00am- 9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00am-1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
• Afternoon Jamboree with all singers and musicians welcome 1-4pm at the Merlin Legion. Come out and enjoy good music and great company. Donation welcome. 519-350-8937 for info.
• Messy Thursdays at 4:30pm at the Merlin branch of the CKPL. Every Thurs. is something new and maybe messy. All ages, no registration required.
• UCC Grade 8 Open House - 7:00pm in the theatre. Your invited to discover “The Pines” Ursuline College Chatham.
Fun Stuff
CLUES DOWN
1. __ Aires, city
2. Coarse grass
3. Type of gene
4. Door handle
5. Competition
6. Muslim ruler title
7. Hunting expeditions
8. Large mollusk
9. Bind securely
10. Former U.S. presidential candidate
11. 2-point plays in football
CLUES ACROSS
1. “Loser” rocker 5. Partner to relaxation 9. Mixing 11. Winged nut 13. Expression of blame 15. Vast ocean 16. Comedienne Gasteyer 17. Multiply 19. Meat from a pig (French) 21. Related 22. Rocker Stewart 23. Surprise completely 25. Loon 26. Canister 27. Large, deep-bodied fish
29. Takes forcefully
31. Oil cartel
33. Palmer and Hepburn are two
34. More than one
36. Places down purposefully
38. Pitching statistic
39. Type of sword
41. Witnesses
43. Body part
44. Mixes slowly
46. Satisfy
48. Strong belief
52. One’s physique (slang)
53. More frightening
54. Soup cracker
56. Teaches
57. One who carries something
58. Actor Sean
59. Changes
12. Breezed through 14. Type setting
15. Felt for 18. Codified rules
20. Small dome 24. Chevrotain
26. Male reproductive gland
28. Controversial beliefs
30. Z Z Z
32. One who confines another
34. Bishop
35. Garlands
37. Bird that flies by the coast
38. Optical device
40. Greek goddess of discord
42. Some are “Rolling”
43. Formerly (archaic)
45. Thrust a knife into
47. German river
49. Atomic #26
50. Make a grotesque face
51. Primordial matter of the universe
55. Chinese philosophical principle
80,000 homeless in Ontario in 2024
The Chatham Voice
An Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) report on homelessness termed the state of homelessness in the province as being at a “tipping point.”
The AMO study stated that “Ontario is at a tipping point in its homelessness crisis. More than 80,000 Ontarians were known to be homeless in 2024, a number that has grown by more than 25 per cent since 2022,” the report said. “Without significant intervention, homelessness in Ontario could double in the next decade, and reach nearly 300,000 people in an economic downturn.”
That tough warning was not strong enough for the Raise the Rates Coalition
(RTRC). The group said the report “critically fails to identify poverty-level social assistance rates as a primary driver of the province’s homelessness crisis.”
“While AMO correctly identifies the growing scale of homelessness in Ontario, their proposed solutions ignore the most immediate cause – social assistance rates that condemn recipients to absolute poverty,” Ron Anicich, co-chair of the RTRC said in a media release. “No amount of new housing alone will solve homelessness when Ontario Works recipients are expected to survive on $733 per month.”
Locally, the number of people experiencing homelessness in Cha-
Housing survey
Thanks to a new survey, everyone in the community can have their say about Chatham-Kent’s housing situation.
From now until Jan. 26, an anonymous and confidential survey is available on the Let’s Talk Chatham-Kent municipal website, area residents can provide input on housing requirements in C-K as part of a local housing needs assessment that’s underway.
Area residents are encouraged to share their experiences and thoughts, officials said.
“The housing needs assessment is an important opportunity for us,” said Ray Harper, Chatham-Kent’s director of housing development in a media release. “The report will help council understand the housing
landscape across Chatham-Kent and will help us plan for future housing initiatives using recent data. Everyone’s input is valuable and appreciated.”
To be presented to council in mid-March, the assessment will provide a comprehensive overview of the housing needs and affordability challenges facing residents across Chatham-Kent. It will also identify actionable strategies to address housing gaps and will evaluate the specific needs of a variety of existing sub-populations such as younger adults, seniors, the unhoused, individuals requiring supportive or assisted living, and those seeking non-market housing solutions. For more info and to complete the survey visitletstalkchatham-kent. ca/housingneeds.
tham-Kent has increased by 171 per cent since 2019. That December, Chatham-Kent staff knew of 84 people who were homelessness. As of January 2025, that number has grown to about 228 people.
There are currently between 75 and 100 people who are staying in
encampments throughout the municipality, according to C-K officials, and there are ten known encampment locations across the municipality.
Chatham-Kent officials agree with the RTRC that social assistance program payments are sadly lacking and a large cause of homelessness.
“There are many reasons why homelessness is increasing and why housing alone will not solve this crisis,” officials said.
“Housing with appropriate supports is needed; however, poverty is driving new people into homelessness daily because of frozen Ontario Works rates and inade-
quate Ontario Disability rates.”
Municipal staff, Council, and local advocacy groups continue to lobby the provincial and federal governments for increased funding, additional resources, and expanded programs to help with the growing homelessness issue.
Friday,Feb7,2025 11:00AMto12:30PM
The Chatham Voice
OBITUARIES
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Gail Hendrick
75, Saturday January 11, 2025
Mary Stella Wolanski
77, Sunday January 12, 2025
Gabriel “Gabbi” Trepanier 56, Saturday January 11, 2025
Palmira Coelho
87, Monday January 13, 2025
Blanche May Brooks 98, Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Badder Funeral Home
Charles William “Charlie” Liberty 85, Thursday January 9, 2025
Gerald Wesley Wicks 93, Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Lois Thelma Johnstone 91, Monday, December 30, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Lyle Paul Goldhawk 96, Friday, January 10th, 2025
Marcel Van Der Aa 85, Sunday, January 5, 2025
Philip Harris 74, Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Marilyn Fieldus 93, Thursday, January 9, 2025
Rev. Lane Douglas 93, Thursday, January 9, 2025
Pearl St. Pierre 72, Friday, January 10, 2025
El Northcott 85, Thursday, January 16, 2025
Kendrick Funeral Home
Lynnwood Ripley 84, Saturday, January 4, 2025
Jean Hoekstra 91, Friday, January 10, 2025
Life Transitions
Judy Churchill (Smithers) Thursday, January 9th, 2025
Kenneth Durfy 79, Friday, January 10, 2025
Deanna Whalen Saturday, January 11th, 2025
Elizabeth Dries (MacDonald) Sunday, January 12th, 2025
James Tope Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Trudy Wilson (Driedger) 78, Thursday, January 16, 2025
Lawrence Bishop Thursday, January 16, 2025
Nicholls Funeral Home
Jacqueline O’Neil 84, Thursday, January 9, 2025
Rene Moisan 87, Monday, January 13, 2025
Lenora McNeil 73, Monday, January 13, 2025
Melody Margaret Bechard 58, Monday, January 13, 2025
Robert “Bob” Gilhuly 88, Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Roberta Curtis 80, Tuesday, January 14, 2025
C-K continues to grow: U-Haul
The Chatham Voice
Chatham-Kent remained in the top ten in growth cities in 2024, according to U-Haul.
The moving/rental company’s annual Growth Index reports data by analyzing oneway customer transactions. According to U-Haul officials, 55 per cent of U-Haul one-way traffic was coming into Chatham-Kent in 2024. A total of 45 per cent was leaving.
However, arrivals dipped by two per cent compared to 2023, according to U-Haul stats, dropping it on the list by three spots from seven to 10.
“Chatham-Kent is a low-cost area that sees a lot of people moving here after living in Toronto and other high-cost areas,” David Anstett, U-Haul’s Western Ontario president, said in a media release. “Canadians like to move to the many lakefront properties
here to retire and start something new in a place where it is cheaper to live.”
U-Haul ranks growth cities by each city’s net gain or loss of one-way equipment from customer transactions in a calendar year. The U-Haul Growth Index is compiled from more than 2.5 million one-way U-Haul truck, trailer and U-Box portable moving container transactions that occur annually across Canada and the U.S.
Caring and sharing
This week’s puzzle answers, puzzles
Contributed image
May Court treasurer Lynda Homeniuk presents Karen Hunter of the Chatham-Kent Women’s Centre with a $1000 donation towards the cost of playground equipment at the centre. It’s one of several donations made recently towards the project.
Classifieds
Obituary
FIELDUS: MARILYN JOYCE (nee RIPLEY)
On January 9, 2025 Marilyn Joyce Fieldus, 93, a lifelong resident of CHATHAM, entered very peacefully into her Eternal Home with her loving family at her side. Born in Chatham, Marilyn was the oldest daughter of Lloyd and Agnes Christina Ripley (Catton). Beloved WIFE of 62 years to Robert M. Fieldus (predeceased 2012). Mom was the heart of our home & family & loved us all…Survived by Four Daughters Dawnalea (Ken) Russchen, Pam (Rod) Whitson, Joanne (Scott) Campbell, Kim (Paul) Arnold; Two Sons Wayne Fieldus & Jeff (Tracy) Fieldus. Sister Janice (Gary) Pepper and two brothers Jack & Lynnwood Ripley (predeceased). She will be missed by 12 Grandchildren, 13 Great-Grandchildren & two Great-Great Grand-daughters. Mom was a Member of Evangel Community Church and was very involved in WOMENS MINISTRIES & social committees!! Mom was an active lady & enjoyed her many hobbies of crocheting & knitting. Her Gardens were impeccable, bursting with colours & she tended them with care! The Florida sun & beach were welcome vacations with new friendships made for many years. Most of all mom loved spending time with her family at the lake or her backyard patio! Mom will be missed by many who have had the pleasure to meet her & chat with her. Your friendships were appreciated! The FAMILY has CELEBRATED her LIFE privately. RIP mom, we love you FOREVER. McKinlay Funeral Home. McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham. 519-351-2040.
Gail Hendrick
Peacefully at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on Saturday January 11, 2025, Linda Gail Hendrick, age 75. Beloved wife of the late Donald Hendrick (2016). Born in Owen Sound in 1949, daughter of the late Marie (Rouse) and Larry Corbett. Loving mother of Karla (J.P.) Zanki, Andrea Hendrick and partner Greg and the late Donald Hendrick Jr. (2019). Cherished grandmother of Tyler (Brooke), Mitchell, Cody, Angelika (C.J.), Michael and Emily (Owen). Dear sister of Brad (Monique) Corbett and the late Larry (Daryl) Corbett. She will be sadly missed by many nieces and nephews. Gail worked at Thameview Lodge and Riverview Gardens and had retired after over 30+ years of service, to know her was to love her as she had a heart of gold and her family was her everything. As per Gail’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home, 156 William St. S. Chatham (519-352-5120).
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.
In Memoriam
Happy Birthday in Heaven
Wanted Announcement
Dear Wayne,
This is your first Birthday away from your family. May you have a Heavenly Birthday. We will celebrate your life with fond memories, here on Earth. Love your wife Beth & your daughter Alisha. We Love and Miss You!
Classified ads start at only $6 plus tax. 519-397-2020
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.
Tire Sale: 4 Firestone 225 50R17.
$300.00 Phone 519-397-0928
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lawrence Kenneth Bishop, Thursday, January 16, 2025, surrounded by family and love.
Born in Brantford, Ontario, Lawerence was the beloved son of Kenneth and Spray Bishop, the devoted husband of Marie Claire Vinter-Bishop, and the cherished step-father of Carol Ann LaPointe (the late John LaPointe) and Giselle Vinter, Daniel Vinter and Stephanie Homenick. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Eric, Amanda (Geoff), Kayleigh (Keith), Cori (Chris) and Marshall. His legacy continues through his 10 great-grandchildren, whom he adored. He was a beloved brother to Lyle, Leslie, the late Lynn and the late Laurie. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Lawrence’s memory to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Children’s Hospital in London. Lawrence will be remembered for his kindness, dedication to his family, and the countless memories he leaves behind. To leave online condolences and cherished memories please go to www.lifetransitions.ca All services entrusted to Life Transitions Burial and Cremation Inc.
Man will do minor body work for a reasonable price. Call Rodney at 226-627-9010.
Looking For
CASH CASH CASH
Will pay cash for Elvis DVDs. Phone 519-9172339
For Sale
Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Readyto-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-3543411
MORTGAGES / LOANS
For Sale
Native Crafts
Moccasins, hand made necklaces, bracelets, dream catchers & more!
Open Thursday - Saturday 11am-4pm Cash only, no debit 14911 River Line, Delaware Nation
I am happy and sad to announce after 46 years with C.I.B.C. my retirement on January 31, 2025. My career started with C.I.B.C. on December 21, 1978 at 99 King St., Chatham. I was there 36 years before transferring to St. Clair and McNaughton in November, 2014. Over the years I have made lasting friendships with many of my co-workers. The thing I will treasure the most is the relationships I have developed over all these years with so many of my clients. They have become like family to me, and I will miss them. John and I have been married for 42 years, have 3 children and their spouses, 5 grandchildren and a 6th on the way. So I’m sure I will keep busy with them. Hopefully I will also get some extra camping in too. I’m proud of the work I’ve done at C.I.B.C. I’m ready to start the next chapter in my life. I thank you all for giving me so many good memories. See you around, Terri Warren.
Part-time Church Pianist and/or organist required by Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church Ridgetown. Two manual Woodstock pipe organ and Yamaha C3 Grand Piano. For more information contact Renee Geluk (519437-1275). Please send resume to Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church, Box 1148, Ridgetown, ON, N0P 2C0 or email to mtzionridgetown@gmail.com
Siding Company Needed: for upper storey siding repair. Chatham. Phone 519-397-0928.
Handyman Needed: for numerous smalls, paid hourly, Chatham. Phone 519-397-0928.
replace existing employee that is retiring after 15 years. This is a full time position and to start as soon as possible. Salary will be based on experience. Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook, Word Perfect is required. Knowledge of Sage Accounting and PC Law is preferred. Experience in accounting is preferred but training will be provided. Experience in real estate is necessary with knowledge of Unity and Teraview preferred. Please send resume to info@rhodeslawfirm.com
