The Chatham Voice, Feb. 15, 2024 by Chatham Voice

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Dave Willson and his wife Sherri Northcott have a direct message for York1, owners of a waste landfill property on Irish School Road, formerly known as Highway 21, north of Dresden. The Mississauga company has applied to significantly expand the site to a 24/7 operation that would see dozens of trucks bringing waste to the site each day. See story on page 2.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 2

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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Residents trash new dump proposal By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Dave Willson’s message to the owners of the former dump property on Irish School Road north of Dresden is clear. “We don’t want your garbage.” Willson, who along with wife Sherri Northcott, lives in a

brick rancher directly across from the property that’s being considered for a possible 24/7 landfill site. He said the idea of trucks coming to the site around the clock raises concerns. “Our driveway is right across from their driveway,” Willson told The Chatham Voice in a recent interview. “At night, the lights will shine right on our

front door.” Willson made the comments in response to a proposal from York1 Environmental Waste Solutions Ltd. to expand services at the location. The Mississauga-based company has owned the property since 2021. York1, which offers a wide range of services from waste collection to soil remediation, has applied to the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks to expand what’s offered at the location. The site, which has been used as a small waste transfer station in the past, is already zoned as an existing waste processing site. According to the company website, York1 currently operates nine waste transfer/landfills

–aka garbage dumps – in the Niagara, GTA and Muskoka regions. The site states that “we provide an integrated portfolio of services consisting of demolition, excavation, shoring and foundations, hydrovac excavation, underground services, drilling and environmental waste management services.” According to the proposal on Environment Registry of Ontario, around eight hectares of the 35-hectare property was approved for a landfill in the past. The new application to amend the existing order seeks to increase the amount of waste to 6,000 tonnes per day for non-hazardous solid waste. The amendment also calls for indoor storage of 1,800 tonnes of residual waste for transfer including source separated organics, outdoor storage of 3,000 tonnes of recyclable ma-

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terials and outdoor storage of 30,000 tonnes of non-hazardous solid waste consisting of unprocessed and processed soil. If approved, the proposal includes the construction of a new processing/sorting building, expansion of the waste classifications to include blue box materials, installation of equipment to process construction and demolition waste, installation of a diesel-powered mobile shredding/grinding machine, installation of a soil washing system and construction of stormwater management infrastructure. Willson, a contractor, said there haven’t been any problems with the site in the past, adding he even worked there for a time in a “low key” operation. However, he and his wife knew something was up when the company started drilling wells on the site. Now, methane is being found in Willson’s well. It’s the first time this has occurred, he said, noting his wife’s family has lived on the property for 70 years with no problems. But the biggest worry, Willson stressed, is the estimated 120 to 160 trucks that will bring waste to the York1 operation each day. The trucks would likely be coming from Highway 401 or Highway 402, which are around 33 km. and 68 km. away respectively. He said the community won’t be fooled. “We might be country bumpkins, but we all went to school and graduated,” Willson said. “It isn’t just about me. This will wreck our little town.” The York1 proposal is turning up the heat on the councillors representing North Kent. Continued on page 3 Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9:15am - 3:30pm

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Upset residents call their councillors Continued from page 2

Both Rhonda Jubenville and Jamie McGrail say they’ve been bombarded with calls and emails from constituents concerned about the expansion. McGrail said the municipality only learned about the expansion after neighbours were contacted. A public meeting between company representatives and the public was to take place Feb. 10. Another meeting is scheduled for March 1 at 6 p.m. at Ken Houston Memorial Agricultural Cen-

tre, which has space for 300 people. “This is serious and the municipality is taking it very, very seriously,” McGrail stated, stressing the fact the company applied directly to the province, and permission from Chatham-Kent is not required for the expansion. She’ also hoping that candidates vying to replace former MPP Monte McNaughton will take the landfill expansion on as an election issue. McGrail said it’s extremely important that people with concerns about the landfill

expansion submit them to the Ontario Environment Registry (OER). The comment period is open until March 16. To submit a comment online access the OER website, under file 019-8205. Officials in Lambton County are also raising the alarm, wondering about the impacts of a constant parade of garbage trucks on public safety and infrastructure. The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has issued an official statement saying it is reviewing the matter and staff is currently gathering more

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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Project shifts to planning stage den in the area,” he told The Chatham Voice. The overburden is the loose soil above the aquifer.

Continued on page 5

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region. “The energy demand in southwestern Ontario is expected to quadruple by 2035,” he said during an update with media on the plan. “This will bring 450 additional megawatts into the region, enough to power a city the size of London, Ont. It will support the region’s clean energy needs now and into the future.” Included in the project is the upgrade of transmission lines from southeast of Courtright to northeast of Chatham. Those lines run through North Kent, which has some water well

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owners concerned. Karunakaran said Hydro One is working to ensure the aquifer in the region, disturbed by Hydro One is shifting into the wind turbine construction and planning phase of its St. Clair operation in the past, is not imTransmission Line project, but pacted. not everyone is happy. “We’ve heard loud and clear The project, announced in the effects on water, source 2022, is to upgrade existing water production, ground walines and create new ones to ter and wells in particular,” connect the Lambton transKarunakaran said. “Hydro former station to the Chatham One’s teams conduct a number switching station. of field studies. We take our Sonny Karunakaran, vice-presstewardship responsibilities seident of strategic projects and riously.” partnerships for Hydro One, To that end, he said the founsaid the new line will address dations for the transmission increasing energy needs in the line are designed to avoid interaction with the aquifers. “Any foundation we install will remain a minimum distance of 30 feet above the aquifer itself,” Karunakaran said. “The idea is to ensure our methods and techniques have avoidance.” Kevin Jakubec, a founder of the Water Wells First group that has lobbied on behalf of well owners whose waSelwyn Birchwood Gracie Curran ter became fouled with sediment in the wake of Saturday, March 2 Friday, April 12 turbine construction and KBD Club, 34 Byng Ave., Chatham operation in the area, said he doesn’t think it is Tickets On-line at ticketscene.ca or call 519-676-9150 for more info By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 5

News

Concert raises $16K for Music for the Mind By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Music for the Mind got off to a loud and proud start to its 2024 fundraising campaign. The charity organization hosted a concert Feb. 2, raising the bar, and $16,000 in the process. Music for the Mind (MFM) founder Elisha Banks said it was a great night all around, capped off by the new record of funds raised at one event for the organization.

Close to 400 people attended the event, held at the Portuguese-Canadian Social Club on Grand Avenue in Chatham. Three bands – 89 Next, Walkin’ 47 and Big Shiny Toons – performed over the course of the evening. Volunteers held a silent auction, and there was an in-house 50-50 draw, Banks said. “It was epic. We had a great turnout. It was a packed house,” she said. “This was a new venue for us. We loved it. The

staff were amazvices. The moning. It was a great ey will help pay space for our for minimal-fee event.” counselling for Banks thanked people aged six the bands and and up, aid in event sponsors covering the cost of psychologifor their support. “Without them, cal assessments the concerts don’t for children up happen,” she to age 18, and to Elisha Banks said. provide supports Funds raised beyond counselfrom MFM events this ling for victims. year will go to Family With the success of the Service Kent, the Kids winter concert, Banks Team program and Cha- admitted the next MFM tham-Kent Victim Ser- event has not been final-

will have no groundwater impacts are unverifiable without the data from a baseline study. We are left only with taking their word, nothing more,” Jakubec said.

Karunakaran begs to differ. “We are committed to deliver this project in an environmentally responsible manner. We will continue to deliver this

ized. “We are considering having another summer concert, but we don’t have any dates set as of yet,” Banks said. “We are also looking at partnering up with some local bars to host music nights as fundraising events.”

A broasted chicken dinner will be on the menu again this year. Banks said the fundraising goal this year is $60,000, up from $50,000 set last year. However, the organization blew past that 2023 goal, raising in excess of $57,000.

Project will be ‘environmentally responsible’

Continued from page 4

“The claims Hydro One is making in their final environmental assessment for the St. Clair Transmission Line project that their construction techniques

project with a mindfulness of a protection of the land, the people and the region,” he said. “We fully understand the significance of the water sources in the region.”

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 6

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Opinion Literary bull’s eye The moment someone opts to run for office, a bull’s-eye is placed on their backs. However, it is to the extent people will go to aim at that bull’s-eye that can be concerning. There are smear campaigns galore, verbal sparring, etc. It must stop at threats to one’s well being. It’s one thing to have a difference of opinion with a politician – trust us when we say we have them all the time – and another to take it to extreme threats of harm or violence. That said, getting a postcard that calls for your ouster should not provoke a response within council chambers during a meeting. Councillors receive emails all the time critical of their voting behaviour, or lobbying them to take a particular side on an issue. It’s part of politics to receive notes, emails, have face-to-face disagreements with a ratepayer, etc. The key is for the other party to keep it civil. Delivering a postcard to council members who backed the integrity commissioner in her recommendation for sanctions against North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville last sum-

mer sounds civil enough. The cards called on the councillors to quit. A postcard in this fashion shows people are passionate to the point of shelling out money to have such things printed and delivered to councillors. But that should be the end of it. It is a piece of literature critical of a politician’s decision. We write such pieces all the time and they appear in this spot in the newspaper. Perhaps the difference is we do so with no malice attached or intent. We truly disagree with a decision or the line of thought that led to a decision, and offer our reasoning as to why we think council, or a councillor, or a politician from the provincial or federal level, is wrong. Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew is one councillor to receive a postcard. She’s a veteran councillor who has likely experienced a lot during her time representing the citizens of Chatham-Kent. We believe her cup of criticism spilled over at the Feb. 5 council meeting, prompting her to speak up. Unfortunately, we expect that will only serve to encourage the postcard squad. We hope it remains civil-ish.

Our letters to the editor policy The Chatham Voice welcomes letters to the editor. Our preferred method to receive letters is via e-mail to bruce@ chathamvoice.com (use “Letter” in the subject line). You can also drop them off or mail

them to us at The Chatham Voice, 71 Sass Rd., Unit 4, Chatham, Ont, N7M 5J4. The Chatham Voice reserves the right to edit letters to the editor for brevity and clarity. All letters need to be signed.

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

Library expansion questions: reader Editor: I am writing in response to the letter “Library accessibility in question” by Janice Lasell in the Jan. 25 Chatham Voice. I am not saying I am in disagreement with some of her issues, but she should do her homework before she offers solutions. She wants the library left where it is and expanded for more space. The present library was

built in 1967 and the foundations were put in place for a building of the size they built. It cannot be added onto in height. The location is bordered on three sides by streets. If the building was to be torn down and replaced, the new footprint to meet current setbacks would be smaller than what is there presently.

The only direction the building could go is to the south. Businesses would have to be bought out, the existing buildings demolished and a new addition built. The cheaper solution is to renovate the old Sears store and revamp the parking problems. Bruce Thompson Chatham

Pay attention to citizens Editor: Well, I thought I had read it all in The Voice, but more interesting letters to the editor keep coming. There was an especially good one in the Feb. 1 paper, “Reader criticizes councillors’ behaviour,” from Sheila Martin. She listened to 18 deputations at the Jan. 15 council meeting and said some councillors were looking at cell phones, texting, laughing and talking and

whispering. It was no wonder council passed the motion to buy the Sears building, as they certainly could not have been listening to the voices at the podium against it. I was at that podium that night for a different reason. I was so busy trying to say all I wanted to – which I didn’t – in five minutes that I really did not notice that some

of the council might not have been listening. Maybe that was a good thing. Otherwise I may have stopped right there and said, “You’re not listening to me.” The whole of your letter, Sheila, was spot on. But we do have some good councillors. Ruth Draper Chatham

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 7

News

Councillors pipe up over hate mail By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Marjorie Crew says she has no plans to resign from her seat on Chatham-Kent council. The veteran Chatham councillor made the comment at the Feb. 5, C-K council meeting as she displayed a postcard emblazoned with her picture. The text on the card called on her to resign in relation to her stance on municipal flag flying in Chatham-Kent and a subsequent integrity commissioner investigation that saw North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville’s pay suspended for a threemonth period. Crew quipped that Anti-Democracy Council C-K members, the presumed creators of the postcard, used a “really good” photograph of her. “I appreciate that because I spent a lot of money on those pictures,” Crew said. “This is from a very limited, but loud group of people,” she said as she held

up the card, noting she wouldn’t waste a “dime or a dollar” to return to sender. The postcard writer criticizes Crew for her “egregious” assault on democracy and the “weaponization” of a “flawed integrity commissioner’s report” against a councillor, although it did not specifically name Jubenville. “I won’t resign,” Crew said. “I support democracy...I fully support it.” She advised the sender to stop wasting their money by sending her any more mail, noting her skin is a “little thicker than that.” The councillor said she wanted to bring the matter up in open session to make the public aware. “I don’t think people realize how much of this we have been putting up with,” Crew said, adding similar notices have been put on councillors’ vehicles, and online petitions have cropped up targeting some municipal politicians featuring derogatory and “hateful” terms

that “we don’t stand for in Chatham-Kent. “I will stand up for it every single time,” Crew said. “This is wrong and I’m not going to put up with it.” South Kent Coun. Anthony Ceccacci said he thinks

it’s important the public is aware of the negativity directed at council. “This has been happening more and more,” he said. “You would think and hope that some of this stuff would go away but it’s not.”

Ceccacci added that messages on his windshield and in the mail are an “assault.” He pointed out individuals run for office to “help people, not to always be assassinated by a very select group of people”

trying to undermine the process. In speaking to the matter, Jubenville said she was unaware of the postcard campaign and said she had nothing to do with it. Continued on page 11

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 8

Ashley’s legacy lives on By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

More than 10 years after her passing, Ashley Doucet’s legacy endures. The 21-year-old who died in a car accident in 2013 is the inspiration behind Ashley’s Place – a

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

News

charity that continues to help those in need. Founded by Ashley’s mother Kim Doucet just three months after her daughter’s death, the Tilbury charity is going strong after a decade. It supports many initiatives, including putting together much-needed

Straight Talk with Nathan McKinlay In our column, we often share the insights, stories and encounters experienced at the Funeral Home and beyond. We are blessed to be able to help families of all different faiths, backgrounds and walks of life through their grief journey. At a time of loss, people are often either at their best or at their worst, and families tend to either come together or come apart. Working with grief and death day in and day out can be challenging. It is certainly not a job for everyone and not everyone can cut it. We are fortunate to have been able to hone and train a team of compassionate and passionate, authentic and hard-working professionals to serve our families. Our greatest asset is our team. As such I only felt it appropriate to highlight some of the individuals that I am fortunate enough to work with. - Nathan

To call Kim Pidgeon a jack-of-all-trades would be an understatement. Kim is skilled in so many areas and is an essential part of our team. Whether he is working out a plan on the parking lot, assisting with a transfer at a residence, or navigating the logistics of a new funeral venue, Kim is a great guy to have at your side. Kim is great with families, is a trainer and mentor to many and widely respected among his peers. Thank you Kim!

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Sherry Ouellette and Kim Doucet of Ashley’s Place present gift packages to Linck employees Lisa St. Pierre, Courtaney Allemeersch and Marcy Morrison. Chock full of brand-new goodies, including a hand-crafted blanket, the packages are given out to young people aging out of the foster care system.

care packages for C-K youth aging out of foster care. Mom Kim says the project would be near and dear to her daughter’s heart. Ashley was an early childhood educator and a child and youth worker who cared deeply about those she met along the way. One day while she was working at a group home, Kim said Ashley came home concerned about a teenager she was working with that was turning

18 and had to leave the home. “Ashley didn’t feel she was ready to be on her own,” said Kim. Shortly thereafter, Kim heard of a project undertaken by a group of local high school students who were assembling baskets for foster care kids aging out of the system. Kim and her volunteers jumped on board and they’ve been putting the baskets together ever since. “It’s a cherished proj-

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ect,” Kim said. “It’s the only one where we purchase new items to give to youth.” A pillow, a multi-purpose screwdriver, soap, a toilet brush, towels and dish cloths, some new cookware, plus handmade pillowcases and a cozy knitted blanket are some of the items contained in a brand-new laundry basket for young people setting up a new home. Ashley’s Place volunteer Sherry Ouellette said she’s certain “Ashley would definitely be proud of her mom.” A total of seven baskets were delivered to Linck recently, and according to children’s services worker Courtaney Allemeersch, the donations are very helpful. “They are very well received by the young people,” Allemeersch said. “They are very appreciative of the support.” Ashley’s Place continues to serve as a beacon of hope in the community, thanks to committed volunteers. Today the Queen Street non-profit centre offers a number of outreach programs. It’s a warming and cooling centre, it offers inexpensive clothing in its New to Me Boutique and also provides a welcome respite for people to rest, sleep and do laundry during the day.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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Tori Winters* 226-881-0334

Megan Canniff* 226-626-7133

Adam Deseure* 519-350-5787

Darren Hart* 226-627-8580

Sylvia Moffat** 519-355-8189

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Scott Poulin* 519-350-5320

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 10

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

News

Literacy fundraiser tops $11K By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Community donations have helped pave the way to place about 2,800 books in the hands of local youngsters. Last fall, local Kiwanian Cathy Telfer started a fundraising effort in memory of her late sister, Sandy Parker, to help raise literacy levels in the municipality. The Kiwanis Club of Chatham-Kent is part of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library

(DPIL), where children from infancy to age five sign up and receive a book a month. During the fundraiser, Telfer pledged to match donations, up to $5,000, setting the bar at an even $10,000. However, donations continued to fuel the initiative, topping out at $11,090. “I was so happy with the response. Some came from (club) members, some from people we know, and some from strangers,” she said. “The

community is the moment, with pretty amazing. a waiting list of It’s really gratifyabout 50 more, ing.” Telfer said. The funds raised The books sent will power the out to the chilprogram for more dren are age appropriate. than half a year. “When we calThese books are culated it out, it free to families buys pretty close but cost approxCathy Telfer to 2,800 books. imately $45 per That’s almost seven year, which is covered by months of books,” Telfer the Kiwanis Club. said. The club has taken on The Chatham-Kent ele- children’s literacy as a ment of the DPIL has 427 specific focus of choice, children in the program at Telfer said. Hence part-

nering with DPIL. About 40 per cent of the hardcover books sent out by the Imagination Library are either written by Canadian authors, have images from Canadian illustrators, or are from Canadian publishers. Telfer said the program should receive a boost in the summer, as the Kiwanis have been selected as one of the charities to benefit from the C-K Charity Classic golf tournament in August. “We (Kiwanis Club of

Chatham) have become quite devoted to the DPIL. We’ve been fortunate to get grants from the C-K Community Foundation and South Kent Wind Fund and from the 100 Women Who Care. But we’ve been adding children as we get those grants and we have a commitment to sustain the children we have,” Telfer said previously. The Kiwanis Club is a volunteer organization dedicated to serving the children of the world.

tham-Kent’s ward boundaries and reducing the size of council. At the Feb. 5 council meeting, Jubenville brought forward a notice

of motion that would see an independent third-party consultant examine the issue and report back to council. As part of the notice,

Plus, she said, there’s an existing rural-urban divide. Chatham-Kent council is currently made up of 17 councillors and a mayor.

Six councillors are from Chatham proper, two are from Wallaceburg and the remainder are from C-K’s smaller rural communities.

Councillor wants to explore idea of downsizing C-K council The Chatham Voice

North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville wants to examine the possibility of changing Cha-

the first-term councillor stated that Windsor and London both have larger populations than Chatham-Kent, but fewer council members.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

PAGE 11

News

C-K purchases properties in Wheatley

Erie St. (the Legion). will also take place, Individual price tags on Brown told council. the properties are $94,000; “The real intent of trying $120,000; $1.2 million; to move forward with this As part of the post ex- $795,000 and $1.2 million, is so that we can line up plosion plan to revitalize respectively for a total of demolition of the buildings and also explore unWheatley, Chatham-Kent $3.5 million. According to a report derneath them,” Brown is moving ahead with the purchase of properties lo- from public works direc- said, adding there’s a cated within the commu- tor Ryan Brown, the bulk possibility of finding of the cost will be fund- wells on the site that havnity’s evacuation zone. At its Feb. 5 meeting, ed through a $3-million en’t yet been discovered. Work at the blast site council voted to buy five provincial grant, with the properties, including remainder to come from since the August 2021 WHERE DREAMS COME HOME municipality’s strate- explosion has been ongoRoyal Canadian Legion the Branch 324. The sites gic reserves in accordance ing. Caused by a gas leak were determined to be with reserve fund poli- into an old water well, unsuitable for redevelop- cies. Brown said the five hydrogen sulfide gas colBlack Loam for Line lected ment following an engi- properties account 7544 Lewis W in the basement of neering assessment from about half of the build- one of the buildings beT.L. Watson and Associ- ings located in the evacu- fore igniting. Two buildates and WSP Canada Inc. ation zone and plans are ings were demolished The purchases include in the works to negotiate and some 20 people were 15 Erie Street N; 19-23 the purchase of the re- injured. As well, a number of Erie St N; 29-33 Erie St. N, maining sites in question. Further investigation residents were unable 37 Erie Street N, and 27 By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

to return to their homes during a lengthy evacuation period. Another step towards safety for the community is also being taken as officials are preparing Lower Explosive Limits (LEL) gas monitoring packages

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er brought it forward to council, Jubenville said she’s also been on the receiving end of abuse from the public, pointing out that someone has even created a fake website in

COUNTRY LIVING DESCRIBES THIS QUIET AND SERENE PROPERTY SURROUNDED BY FARMLAND, FEATURES A ONE FLOOR council was having RANCHER WITH 3the BEDROOMS, 2 BATHS, discussion.LARGE UPDATED KITCHEN DINING AREA, FAMILY ROOM OVERLOOKING LARGE “We are here as a council DECK AND BACK YARD, MUDROOM, to make ATTACHED Chatham-Kent GARAGE PLUS A 40 X 64 FT better,” Canniff butCOMPRESSOR AND HEATED said, SHOP WITH DOORS, IDEAL FAMILY OR admitted HOIST that14 FTcouncil RETIREMENT HOME.

members are putting up with more negativity, particularly in the last few years. “We are going to have differences of opinion, I can guarantee that, “Canniff said.

Continued on page 14

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Hate mail discussed her name. “It’s very offensive,” the councillor said. “But I guess if we’re airing our dirty laundry, I guess I will as well.” However, Jubenville stressed she has not, nor would not, attack any of her fellow council members and wants to continue working with them. Mayor Darrin Canniff said that it’s good that

to distribute them, beginning in the core area and then moving outward into the community. The monitors are expected to arrive within a month, Brown said.

NEW LISTING!

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OF BUYING LING?Continued from page 7 “I want to confirm for ONSIDER the public that I have NG no knowledge of them HILIPS(the postcards),” she told council. LL. And while she has nev-

to be distributed to residents and businesses, beginning in the evacuation zone. Brown said 500 of the monitoring units have been ordered and Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue will be going door to door

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 12

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Someone might be a victim of human trafficking if they: • are not allowed to speak for themselves and their activities are controlled • are under 18 and involved in prostitution or sex work • are unpaid or paid very little and seem to be treated poorly (long or unusual hours, not allowed breaks, forced to live in poor conditions) • are repaying a large debt through labour or sex • seem fearful, anxious, depressed, submissive, tense, nervous or paranoid (they may avoid eye contact or seem fearful around police) • show signs of abuse, such as bruising, cigarette burns or fractures • have tattooing or branding symbols, particularly names • don’t have their own belongings or money, and don’t control their own passport or other documents • seem malnourished or lack medical care • move frequently and may not know their surroundings well • have been reported missing Who is at risk of sexual human trafficking Anyone can be at risk of being trafficked, however there are some risk factors that can make someone more vulnerable. People who are at higher risk of being sex trafficked are: • women and girls (though boys, men and people who are LGBTQI2S+ are also targeted)

• homeless and marginalized youth • youth who struggle with self-esteem, bullying, discrimination, poverty, abuse, isolation and other social or family issues • Indigenous women and girls • people with addiction, mental illness and developmental disabilities There are cases where none of these risk factors are present. In those cases, traffickers often target very young people, identify and fulfill their needs, and then use that dependence to control and exploit them.

Someone might be being groomed for trafficking if they: • are withdrawing from family and friends • are being secretive about their activities • have a new boyfriend, girlfriend or friend who they won’t introduce to friends and family • suddenly spend time with an older person or people • begin staying out more often and later • are absent from school or there is a decline in school performance • begin wearing more sexualized clothing • have new clothing and jewellery that they can’t afford to buy • suddenly have a new or second cell phone with a secret number

If you suspect a person may be a victim of human trafficking, please use the following to help: Chatham-Kent Police Service: 519-436-6600 or 9-1-1 in case of emergency Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) Victim Services: 519-436-6630 Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 www.kidshelpphone.ca Labour trafficking Chatham-Kent Women’s Centre: 519-354-6360 Language like “forced labour,” “servant” and “servitude” are sometimes used when talking about labour trafficking. There have Chatham-Kent Sexual Assault Crisis Centre: 519-354-8688 been labour trafficking cases involving construction, manufactur- The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-833-900-1010 ing, mining, hospitality, salons, agriculture, domestic work, sales

Ursuline Sisters of Chatham 20 Sandy St., Chatham 519-354-6360 • 1-800-265-0598

and other industries. Labour traffickers often take away passports and other documents, and sometimes control where the person stays. Debt bondage is a form of labour trafficking where a person is told they must work to pay off a large, unexpected and illegal debt. People in other countries and newcomers may be recruited by someone from their home country or from Canada who makes false promises about what a job is and how much it pays. The person may not know their rights in Ontario, may not know how to get help and may fear reporting to police. People who are most at risk of labour trafficking include: • migrant workers • people who are homeless • people with uncertain immigration status • newcomers to Canada • people who do not speak English or French

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Human sex trafficking is one of Canada’s fastest growing crimes, and is a complex and often hidden crime that involves treating victims like possessions that can be bought and sold.

PAGE 13

It happens in our communities.

And it’s happening here in our own community of Chatham-Kent

where traffickers target vulnerable teens through luring, coercion, manipulation and exploitation – promising money, opportunity, love, stability and popularity. Traffickers move their victims along the busy Highway 401 corridor to avoid detection. According to Statistics Canada, in 2021 Ontario had a 2.3% higher rate of human trafficking than the national rate and 62% of all human trafficking incidents were reported in Ontario. The relatively high number of incidents in Ontario may be attributed to the concentration of urban areas in the province as well as the high volume of land border crossings. Safety Planning: • Set up safety words with this trusted person that you can use This safety planning information is intended to help human traffick- to let them know it is safe to talk, or you are not safe and need ing victims, or those who may be at risk of being trafficked. assistance. Create actions that you would like them to do if you use 1 - Trust your judgment and intuition/instincts a certain safety word (e.g. call 911 for you, meet you somewhere phone is difficult, have a second cheap phone for emergencies – • If someone promises you something that seems too good to be to pick you up, end the call because you are not safe to talk, etc.). store it somewhere safe for your only. If youaccess are a victim/survivor of true, the situation may likely be different than described. • Keep this trusted person’s contact information with you at all forced prostitution labour, • Have a prepaid calling card that you can useorasforced a back-up plan. • If someone makes you feel uncomfortable with their words or time and inform your trusted person if you will be travelling or or think someone is, we can help. • Try to maintain access to your bank account or another safe way actions, trust how you feel and what your instincts tell you. moving to another location. of obtaining money, especially for emergency use. • If an environment, location, or situation makes you nervous, try 3 - Keep possession of all your important documents and 5 - Contact responsible organizations for assistance or 1.833.900.1010 to remove yourself from the situation if you can. identification information canadianhumantraffickinghotline.ca • If your romantic partner asks you to do things you do not like, • Nobody has the right to take or hold your personal documents • Call 911 if you are in immediate danger. are worried about, or are uncomfortable with, tell that person that • Make photocopies of your important documents and identifi24/7 | Toll Free | Confidential | 200+ languages • Contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900you do not like it. Also, tell a trusted person of your concerns in cation and keep them in a safe place that you can access if your 1010 for referrals to social services and supports (such as shelcase things become worse. documents are taken from you. If you are comfortable with it, ters, medical assistance, legal advice, emergency transportation, 2 - Allow a trusted friend, relative, or other person to consider giving these copies to your trusted person. etc.) and to law enforcement if you wish. The hotline can also help help keep you safe 4.Try to keep control and possession of some way to with general information on trafficking issues and situations, as well • Stay in touch with this trusted person and let them know when communicate and to access your money as help with safety planning. you have concerns about your situation. • Keep possession of a cellphone if possible. If keeping your CALL

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 14

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

News

Canadian Navigable Waters Act

Bowling Thunder raises $12,000

Aqua City .............................................................. hereby gives notice that an Owner - Individual or company name

application has been made to the Minister of Transport, pursuant to the Canadian Navigable Waters Act for approval of the work described herein and its site and plans. Pursuant to paragraph 7(2) of the said Act,

Aqua City

.......................................................... has deposited with the Minister of Transport, Owner - Individual or company name

on the on-line Common Project Search Registry (http://cps.canada.ca/) under the NPP File Number 2023-409312 a description of the following work, its site and plans:

The Chatham Voice

Aqua City, an inflatable water park, being proposed to float offshore in Lake Erie, could come to Erieau this summer in Chatham-Kent. South Kent Coun. Ryan Doyle and Sam Tudorica, owner of Aqua City Water Park, remain committed to finding a locale for the inflatable water park. Aqua City was announced by Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff as part of Celebrating CK in May of 2023, a month-long campaign in which something new is unveiled every business day. Located on

Lake Erie in Erieau .............................................................................................................. (name of the river, the lake or other navigable water)

the floating park would be about 30 meters offshore anchored to large cement blocks that would sit on the lake bottom. Aqua City will need a barge to put concrete weights on the floor of Lake Erie so it can anchor the inflatables and buoys. The buoys will mark the perimeter of the park. Chains will secure the inflatables so they don’t float away. The company will also need a tent on the beachfront to register patrons, store equipment, and hold safety briefings. It will also house emergency phone equipment and first aid equipment. The park consists of a series of obstacle courses, including slides, trampolines, swings and many more activities for not only the youth, but everyone to enjoy this coming summer. The inflatable water park is operated on the beach requiring a space roughly 10x10 to provide a kiosk in order to conduct registration, issue life jackets, etc. The park will open for the period of June through September, weather permitting. Hours of operation will run between 11am-7pm. Participants will have the option of reserving a time slot both online and in person. Each participant is required to fill out a waiver prior to participating. Children under 5 years old are not permitted, ages 5-9 must be accompanied by an adult. After the registration is complete a type 3 life jacket will be provided to all participants regardless of age and swimming ability. Aqua City will be responsible for ensuring there are lifeguards on duty and would assume all liability for inspections, staffing, safety, equipment, and maintenance of the floating water park safety audit conducted by the LifeSaving Society. It establishes aquatic safety standards in Canada. The audit will ensure Aqua City has enough staff and equipment and complies with the Inflatable Waterpark Safety Standards of Ontario, the Waterfront Safety Standards of Ontario, and the Inflatable Water Park Safety Standard of Canada. The time slots will be run every 1.5 hours, allocating 30 minutes to ensure all upcoming participants are registered, aware of park rules and are wearing life jackets. Staff will be hired accordingly to issue waivers and life jackets. Safety is our number one concern and our plan is to provide an adequate number of certified lifeguards on and off the park. This will be formatted in a quadrant system along with 1 lifeguard along the shoreline watching the departure and arrival of participants. Comments regarding the effect of this work on marine navigation can be sent through the CommonProject Search site mentioned above under the Comment section (search by the above referenced number) or if you do not have access to the internet, by sending your comments directly to: Navigation Protection Program – Transport Canada 100 S Front St, 1st Floor Sarnia ON, N7T 2M4

Chatham-Kent Victim Services bowled another perfect game for the second straight year with its Bowling Thunder fundraiser recently. Businesses, organizations, and community members came out for a fun afternoon of bowling at Chatham Bowlerama, raising $12,000 for the organization. This year, TekSavvy partnered with Victim Services to sponsor the event, with the Chatham-Kent Police Service partnering to provide

Wheatley blast-zone buildings purchased

Continued from page 11

West Kent Coun. Lauren Anderson thanked Brown and other municipal staff for taking the initiative to apply for the funding to enhance the remediation process, noting the added measures will bring Wheatley residents “peace of mind.” Currently, staff from a safety company are on site 24/7 conducting ambient air monitoring, as well as monitoring well and scrubber equipment. A bylaw to prohibit digging below

Jack Parry of Chatham is seen with Luce Cools picking up his new 2023 Ram crew cab sport. This is Jack’s 5th family purchase he has made from Luce over the years. Thank you for your continued loyalty and enjoy driving your new truck this Spring!

However, comments will be considered only if they are in writing (electronic means preferable) and are received not later than 30 days after the publication of the last notice. Although all comments conforming to the above will be considered, no individual response will be sent.

Chatham

Chatham, Ontario 6th day of ........................ February 20 ............ 24 Posted at ............................................ this ........ (day)

(Month)

Aqua City

(year)

................................................................ (full name of owner)

six metres in the evacuation zone was also brought forward as an additional safeguard. It will be voted on by council at a future meeting. To date, the Wheatley emergency has cost more than $22 million, with approximately $16.4 million of that coming from provincial coffers. A $100-million class-action lawsuit has also been launched against Chatham-Kent by a Windsor law firm seeking compensation for people impacted by the explosion.

New Year, New Ram

Transport Canada (TC) will not make your comments on a project available to the public on the online public registry. However, any information related to a work is considered as unclassified public record and could be accessible upon legal request. As such, the information and records provided should not contain confidential or sensitive information. If you want to provide confidential or sensitive information that you think should not be made public, please contact TC before submitting it.

(City, Province)

lunch for attendees. The funds raised will contribute to the crisis services and community programming offered by Victim Services. The organization provides short-term emotional support, crisis intervention, practical assistance, and community referrals to those impacted by crime, tragedy, and traumatic situations. Every year, Victim Services supports more than 1,200 people in our community with their healing and recovery. For more information, visit ckvictimservices.com.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

PAGE 15

News

More eyes on troubled retirement home By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is keeping an eye on what’s happening at Park Street Place in Dresden. Following a question from North Kent Coun. Jamie McGrail at a recent meeting, C-K general manager of health and human services Jodi Guilmette said staff have met with provincial agencies to find out how they can assist residents who may find themselves without a home. In January, the Ontario Retirement Home Regulatory Authority revoked the li-

cense at the Dresden retirement home effective May 29. Unless a new buyer is found, the home will no longer be able to offer personal care services. The revocation by the RHRA came on the heels of an investigation by the agency last fall when it was discovered that there was no staff available to care for residents. The RHRA order determined the owners were negligent in their duties to protect and care for residents. As for the present owners, Guilmette said agency staff aren’t getting a lot of co-operation, making it difficult to move forward.

Guilmette said the number of residents impact is around 25, noting the number is “significantly less” than what was anticipated. According to Guilmette, Chatham-Kent has let the provincial bodies know it’s not a municipal problem, but the municipality is “very concerned about the residents. “We want to ensure we’re not in a position where vulnerable residents are left homeless at the end of the closure,” Guilmette said. “We’ve asked that we be kept apprised of the next steps and we will continue to have ongoing communications with them.”

Chatham Voice file photo

The municipality is keeping tabs on what is happening at Park Street Place in Dresdden after a provincial body revoked the licence of the home’s owner.

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Tennis dome coming Final Arrangements Cremation • Burial • Preplanning to Chatham-Kent The Chatham Voice

A new indoor tennis dome is in the works for Chatham-Kent. Thanks to funding from Tennis Canada and Rogers, the municipality will be able to build four indoor courts that will give tennis aficionados the ability to play the game year-round. Chatham-Kent was one of six municipalities to receive a portion of the $1.2-million cash influx. Each of the projects will be provided $200,000 in seed money to get the project started. This year’s grant funding marks the third year of the Year-Round Community Tennis Courts Program that has helped communities across Canada upgrade their tennis infrastructure. It’s estimated the upgrade will add 400 additional court hours per week for Chatham-Kent players. Mayor Darrin Canniff said the municipality is thrilled to be awarded the grant. “This funding helps bring a tennis dome to our growing community and will provide another great venue for Chatham-Kent residents to have fun, learn new skills, and live

more healthy and active lifestyles,” the mayor said in a media release.

The Chatham-Kent project is scheduled for completion in the fall.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 16

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

News

Fall Studio Tour entries wanted The Chatham Voice

The Chatham-Kent Arts and Culture Network wants to share the process

behind the pieces we love. Studio tours provide an intimate setting for visitors to get to know artists

where they are most comfortable – in their creative spaces. As such, the network is

accepting submissions for its Fall Studio Tour. If you are an artist with a designated art space, they

want to hear from you. Deadline for registration is March 29, and the tour takes place Sept. 28 and 29.

For a registration form, email chrisfordjewellery@ gmail.com. Registration is $25.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

PAGE 17

News

‘Retro’ rooms offer flexibility at retirement home By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

A local retirement facility has staged two rooms designed to help current and future residents and their families. The rooms, the Beach Room and the Cabin Room, have a retro vibe and are to be used by potential patients, people needing respite care, and family members of residents at Chatham Retirement Resort. Doug Hay, executive director at Chatham Retirement Resort, said two teams of staff members were tasked to convert the suites into the short-term stay rooms. The teams had the same room type, timeline and budget to create two independent “Retro Suites.” “These suites are designed for people needing a shortterm respite stay after surgery or to test the waters of living in a retirement resi-

dence to see if the lifestyle meets their current needs,” he said. Amanda Cousins, retirement living consultant at the home, said it took a month to “pull the rooms together. “We had to pull furniture that was already existing in the resort and we were given a budget of $700 to do the small touches – painting, accent wall, putting in a different headboard, etc.,” she said. Cousins said the rooms are for when someone has surgery and they need to have respite care after coming from the hospital, for family members of residents, and for people just testing the waters on if they are ready to move into a retirement home. A resident “may have nowhere for their kids to stay,” Cousins said of visiting family. “We can rent this out at a nightly rate that includes their three meals a day. They get to be in the same building

as mom and dad.” Donna O’Neill, a resident at Chatham Retirement Resort, said the rooms also help potential residents picture their living space when they opt to shift to a retirement facility. “It shows people how you can decorate,” she said, adding it illustrates how to maximize your space as well. In terms of popularity, the Beach Room, with its bright colours, was chosen as most popular by a committee of facility residents. O’Neill said she likes both. “The Beach Room is so bright and light. It feels like being on vacation,” she said, adding the Cabin Room “feels so homey. It’s a place you’d want to come to in the winter time.”

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Donna O’Neill, a resident at Chatham Retirement Resort, and retirement living consultant Amanda Cousins, relax in the Cabin Room, one of two themed rooms the resort put together for short-term stays.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 18

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

News

CKHA unveils upgraded quiet rooms The Chatham Voice

Officials with the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) recently showcased new quiet rooms in the hospital’s inpatient psychiatry unit. The rooms will provide a therapeutic space for patients where outside stimulus and exterior stressors are eliminated. The rooms are designed with features that ensure patient and staff safety, officials said. “We’re pleased to offer modern, refreshed qui-

et rooms in the inpatient psychiatry unit. This project aligns with our strategic plan and specifically speaks to our goal to reduce preventable harm through a focus on increased risk management and safety,” Lori Marshall, president and CEO of CKHA said in a media release. “Along with our new withdrawal management service and co-located Rapid Access to Addiction Medicine Clinic, we continue to make significant strides in regards to

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance and Foundation officials and board members gathered recently to unveil quiet rooms in the inpatient psychiatry unit. Also on hand was Elisha Banks, organizer of Music for the Mind.

quality mental health and addiction services in our community.” The construction of the quiet rooms in a new area on the unit will provide better visibility to monitor the occupants of each

room, improving security and safety for both patients and staff. The two enhanced rooms each contain a bedroom with one shared anteroom, controlled entry and a shared washroom space. Each room has safety walls and floor to help ensure a safer environment for patients, protecting them from injury. The project was made possible thanks to significant support

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from local donors and organizations, enabled by CKHA Foundation (CKHAF). This support included a $10,000 grant from the Chatham Kent Community Foundation, an additional $10,000 donation from an anonymous donor, as well as a total of $63,579.32 in funds raised through the Music for the Mind community events. “Our donors and community members have shown that they recognize the pressing need for enhanced mental health services here in our community, and we are so

grateful for the significant financial support that we have received for our mental health and addictions program over the past couple of years,” said Christine Mitchell, president and CEO, CKHA Foundation. “The safety and wellbeing of patients on the inpatient psychiatry unit has always been near and dear to my heart, so it means a lot to me that funds raised through Music for the Mind have made this project possible,” said Elisha Banks, founder and organizer of the Music for the Mind fundraiser.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 19

News

Prince, Night Market up for awards The Chatham Voice

Chatham-Kent has people and organizations up for awards at the Southern Ontario Tourism Conference Awards. Most notable is Shannon Prince, former curator of the Buxton National Historic Site & Museum. She is a finalist for Ontario Southwest’s Luminary of the Year award. The Dresden Night Market is a finalist for the Sustainability Trailblazer of the Year award for its re-

usable cup program. The Luminary of the Year award recognizes an individual whose contributions have illuminated the tourism industry with an unmatched dedication, unwavering passion, and relentless commitment. This accolade is given to someone who embodies the very essence of this industry, radiating the spirit and brilliance that make this sector not just a profession but a vocation. This award is to recognize an individual regard-

Stay in the loop and receive daily news updates right to your inbox Visit chathamvoice.com/subscribe

less of length of time in the industry, at all levels of seniority. The Sustainability Trailblazer of the Year Award recognizes a business, experience, tourism organization or individual leading with an innovative strategy to improve the tourism experience

through a sustainable tourism lens, aligning with the United Nations World Tourism Organizations (UNWTO) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This award recognizes those who embrace and exemplify the importance of sustainable tourism ini-

tiatives. “We are extremely proud of both Shannon Prince and the hardworking team behind the Dresden Night Market,” Shannon Paiva, supervisor of tourism development for the municipality, said in a media release. “To see both as finalists in their

respective categories reinforces the significance tourism represents in Chatham-Kent, and it’s wonderful to see that their accomplishments are being recognized.” Winners will be announced at the Southern Ontario Tourism Conference March 5 in Sarnia.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 20

Community Events

Thursday, February 15, 2024: • The 62nd Annual Lenten Noon Hour Interdenominational Service at Christ Church, 80 Wellington St. W., Chatham. 12:10pm-12:35pm. Followed by a sandwich luncheon in the parish hall. The theme this year is “The Peace That Passes All Understanding.” The speaker this week is The Rev. Greg Simpson, St. Andrews United Church. Free will offering to help Outreach within our community. • The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome. • Merlin Legion Br. 465. 519-689-4884. Jam Session from 1-4:30pm. All are welcome to attend with a donation of $2. From 4-7pm: New 1-lb Wing Special with Fries $8.85 + tax = $10.00 Homemade Panzerotti + Menu available. • The Chatham-Kent Quilters’ Guild meeting at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave W, Chatham. Doors open at 6:30. The meeting starts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome to join us, including non-members. Non-members can visit us once free of charge, however, subsequent visits will be $10 per meeting. You are welcome to contact us through our Facebook page or our website at www.ckquiltguild.com. • Beginner Line Dancing at the Ridgetown Area Adult Activity Centre at 10:30 am. Learn the basic line dancing steps and boost your confidence. $3 for members, $6 for non-members. Call 519-674-5126 or email programs@ ridgetownadultcentre.com to sign up. Friday, February 16, 2024: • The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00-6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are chicken or fish & chips, $13.00. Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Fun Darts start at 7:00pm. Everyone Welcome. • Merlin Legion Br. 465 Call 519689-4884 for details. Join us for our delicious 5pc Perch or 3pc Merlickin Chicken or Combo (3pc Perch & 2pc Merlickin Chicken). Served 4:30-7pm. Serving every Friday during Lent .

• February Luncheon at 12 pm. Enjoy lasagna from Station 11, salad, a roll and dessert. Tickets are $15. Open to all. Purchase yours by Feb 14 at the Centre, 40 Erie St S, Ridgetown. 519674-5126

• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St is a Breaded Pork Chop dinner with potatoes vegetable, salad and a bun. Dine ins $13 and pickups $14. Everyone welcome. Please call 519-352-8291 any day to order. Saturday, February 17, 2024: • 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. • New Beginner Line Dance Class at 11:00am every Saturday. The Chatham Legion (39 William St. N.) welcomes everyone to these free lessons. • The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 3:00pm-5:30pm. Entertainment by Allen James from 4:30-9:30. Everyone Welcome. • Merlin Legion Br. 465. Call 519689-4884 for details. Join us for our delicious Merlickin Chicken plus menu serving 4 to 7pm. Entertainment - Karaoke Bob 7 to 11 pm. • Euchre at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St. $10. Games start at 1pm. There is lunch available from Noon to 1pm. Everyone welcome Sunday, February 18, 2024: • Jamboree at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 1 to 5pm, $5. Come listen and dance to the music of Hired Hand. Everyone welcome. Tuesday, February 20, 2024: • 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 or evening Shuffleboard or Euchre at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome. Wednesday, February 21, 2024: • Kent Coin Club meeting at the Active Lifestyle Center (7pm – 8pm). 20 Mer-

ritt Ave Chatham. New Members and guests welcomed. We have members that collect Canadian, USA, and World coins and paper money. Gain knowledge and trends of the hobby. For more info contact President Paul Robb (probb1@cogeco.ca) (289-228-2817).

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Fun Stuff

• 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. Thursday, February 22, 2024: • The 62nd Annual Lenten Noon Hour Interdenominational Service will be held at Christ Church, 80 Wellington St. W., Chatham (beside the bus depot) beginning at 12:10pm until 12:35pm CLUES ACROSS and will be followed by a sandwich luncheon in the parish hall. The theme 1. One point south this year is “The Peace That Passes All of due east Understanding.” The speaker this week 4. Coagulated blood is The Rev. Albert Lambkin, First Baptist 8. Fortifying ditch Church. Free will offering to help Outreach within our community. 10. Devotee of

Hinduism 11. Trunk of a tree 12. Bank note 13. Capital of Guam 15. Study again 16. Covered with hoarfrost • Merlin Legion Br. 465. 519-689-4884. 17. Opening Jam Session from 1-4:30pm. All are welcome to attend with a donation of $2. 18. Legendary From 4-7pm: New - 1-lb Wing Special Rolling Stone with Fries $8.85 + tax = $10.00 Home21. Stray made Panzerotti + Menu available. 22. Computer • Bracelet Making Workshop at the storing system Ridgetown Area Adult Activity Centre 23. Signal at 1 pm. Make your own beautiful 24. Pitching statistic beaded bracelet. $7 for members, $9 for non-members. Call 519-674-5126 or 25. Human being email programs@ridgetownadultcentre. 26. Malaysian com to sign up. isthmus 27. The “Blonde Bombshell” Are you affected by someone else’s drinking? Al-anon can help! 34. A gland Call - leave message - 519-350-3462 35. Bluish greens 36. Endangered Alcoholics Anonymous, we can help! 37. ThreeInformation Line 519-360-5246. dimensional Send your events to 38. In a way, bruce@chathamvoice.com or precipitated • The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

39. God associated with dissolution 40. Blemished 41. Flow or leak slowly 42. Disco legends The Bee __ 43. Midway between south and southeast CLUES DOWN 1. A way to board 2. Get down 3. Highly seasoned sausage 4. First day of month 5. Eurasian shrubs 6. The organ that bears the ovules of a flower

7. Small lake 9. Belief 10. Sunrooms 12. Metric weight unit 14. Vasopres -sin 15. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! 17. One-time family room staple 19. Got back together 20. Anger 23. Sang merrily 24. Sea eagle 25. Military men 26. Kilo yard (abbr.) 27. Found in the sea 28. Protects from weather 29. Type of medicine 30. City along the Rhine 31. Animal disease 32. Martini ingredients 33. Get away 34. Lack of disunity 36. One-time European Commission officer Puzzle answers on page 23

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

PAGE 21

News

C-K police receive bail-compliance funding The Chatham Voice

In an attempt to curb crime, violent and repeat offenders will soon face increased scrutiny thanks to a new provincial bail compliance program. As part of the $24-million initiative, the Chatham-Kent Police Service is receiving $1.2 million over the next three years, allowing the service to dedicate specific resources to help prevent serious offenders from committing further crimes while out on bail. The CKPS was one of 17 municipal police services to receive a Bail Compliance and Warrant Apprehension grant. Four First Nations police services, and 12 OPP services are also in line for funding. The money is to be used to develop bail compliance and warrant apprehension teams to monitor high-risk individ-

uals. Chatham-Kent–Leamington MPP Trevor Jones said the province is striving to give law enforcement the tools it needs to help protect communities, support victims of crime and keep people safe. “It is unacceptable for violent offenders to commit serious crimes while out on bail,” said Jones in a media release, adding the program will assist in making Ontario one of the safest jurisdictions in Canada. Chief Gary Conn said the CKPS is pleased to receive the “generous” grant funding of $400,000 annually for the next three years. Conn said the money will be used to hire additional staff who will have the training and resources to adequately educate, support and “enforce bail conditions on persons that pose the highest risk to committing further

criminal acts and pose a substantial risk to public safety.” In addition, the chief said the grant will further aid vulnerable members in the community and prevent revictimization. “Clearly, the provincial government takes our issues seriously with increased training and grant funding that ultimately correlates back to enhancing community safety and wellbeing,” Conn stated. The BCWA grant is part of a $112-million investment by the Ontario government. Other initiatives include the creation of a Bail Compliance Unit within the OPP’s Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement (ROPE) Squad; the establishment of intensive serious violent crime bail teams within the court system, and a new province-wide compliance dashboard to help monitor high-risk offenders with the most accurate data possible.

Contributed image

Chatham-Kent chief of police Gary Conn, left, and local MPP Trevor Jones, right, are happy to see the province provide additional funds to support bail compliance.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 22

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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Tom Whitesel 67, Saturday, February 3, 2024 Kendrick Funeral Home

Gilbert Jubenville 70, Saturday, February 3, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Sandra Tomecek 71, Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Twyla Kent 97, Thursday, February 1, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Douglas Allan Robinson 86, Thursday, February 1, 2024 Badder Funeral Home

Joan Herniman (Gatt) 69, Tuesday, January 30, 2024 Life Transitions

Jeremy “Bubba” Morgan 48, Saturday, February 3, 2024 Badder Funeral Home

Donovan Bryan 72, Saturday, February 3, 2024 Life Transitions

Andy Forget 92, Sunday, February 4, 2024 Badder Funeral Home

Shirley Gerber (Baker) 90, Saturday, February 3, 2024 Life Transitions

Deborah Suzanne Burtch 69, Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Badder Funeral Home

Brian Gasarini 73, Wednesday, February 7, 2024 Life Transitions

Jean Craven 91, Thursday, February 8, 2024 Badder Funeral Home

Margaret Thibault 98, Sunday, February 4, 2024 Nicholls Funeral Home

John Gartner 84, Thursday, February 1, 2024 Badder Funeral Home

Martha Anne Dauw 92, Monday, February 5, 2024 Nicholls Funeral Home

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Partnership expands work opportunities Pour news

The Chatham Voice

In an effort to expose their clients to increased employment opportunities, Community Living Chatham-Kent’s (CLC-K) JOBWORX program joined the Windsor Regional Employment Network recently. Officials said the pairing ushers in new opportunities and services for job seekers in the Chatham-Kent community. For more than three decades, the program has been instrumental in providing people who have diverse abilities support in securing and maintaining employment. The new collaboration enables JOBWORX to extend to a broader audience, now offering all Employment Ontario related programs. JOBWORX officials are enthusiastic about the expanded commitment to serve both people who have diverse abilities, and those without barriers to employment, fostering inclusivity in the workforce. While the Windsor Regional Employment Network encompasses the region of Windsor– Chatham-Kent–Sarnia,

JOBWORX is firmly rooted in its dedication to Chatham-Kent. The program’s focus area and coverage will continue to prioritize the local community, ensuring personalized and accessible employment services, officials said. JOBWORX’s array of services includes employment readiness, job discovery, job securement, and sustained employment. The program also provides assistance in searching for career paths, enhancing resumes, interview preparation, and exploring educational and skills training options. “We are thrilled to embark on this new chapter as part of the Windsor Regional Employment Network,” Steve Stokley, manager of JOBWORX with CLC-K said in a media release. “This partnership enables us to offer a more comprehensive range of services to our community, reflecting our commitment to supporting people who have diverse abilities, and promoting inclusivity in the workforce.” People interested in accessing the JOBWORX program are encouraged to reach out by calling 519-351-0460. JOBWORX is located at 101 Stewart St. in Chatham.

Pour Decisions Wine Company is closing its doors this month in downtown Chatham. The company is honouring gift cards up until Feb. 17, and will close its doors for good the next day. Owner Lisa Fraser said in a social media post that she is pivoting “into new adventures in Chatham-Kent and Windsor. “Although this is very difficult for me, I want you to know that this business has been an exciting challenge,” she said in the post. BIA chairs named

The Historic Downtown Chatham BIA recently unveiled its 2024 executive team. Andrew Thiel and Jim Carrington will serve as co-chairs, while Paul Shettell takes the treasurer role and Clair Culliford is secretary. MRI support

Abraham Orthodontics has pumped up the MRI drive for Erie Shores Healthcare. The company donated in excess of $15,000 to the hospital’s foundation to help get an MRI unit in the Leamington hospital. The funds were raised during Abraham’s Night of A Thousand Parties, where local businesses and professionals donated raffle and bingo prizes and pledged amounts that were doubled by Abraham Orthodontics. “We are so grateful for the support for this important endeavor to bring accessible diagnostic treatment close to home,” Christen Abraham, community outreach co-ordinator and co-founder of Abraham Orthodontics said in a media release. • Business Voice is a bi-monthly column in The Chatham Voice that highlights some of the achievements made and efforts underway in Chatham-Kent’s business community. Send your information to bruce@chathamvoice.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

THE CHATHAM VOICE

News

Petition against Sears purchase delivered to C-K council By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

A petition asking the municipality to reconsider its recent purchase of the former Sears building was read out at C-K council Feb. 5, by Chatham Coun. Michael Bondy. Bondy said he was asked to present the petition in open council. “That was what I was requested to do and I think it’s only fair,” Bondy said. According to the document that was submitted to the clerk’s office Jan. 29, “The citizens of Chatham-Kent are greatly and publicly opposed to this decision and request that C-K council reconsider their decision as the former Sears building is in disrepair and is too costly for taxpayers to renovate and retrofit and then move the library and the museum to that loca-

tion. “The citizens of Chatham-Kent request that we keep the current municipal assets in the current locations of the Chatham-Kent Civic Centre, the Chatham Public Library and the Chatham-Kent Museum and do the necessary repairs and renovations required along with regular maintenance to these current buildings to make each location a safe environment for employees, volunteers and visitors.” Council approved the $2.3 million purchase on Jan. 15. However, it comes with a buy-back clause that would allow the municipality to back out if estimated costs are too expensive. A total of 772 Chatham-Kent signatures are contained in the petition, along with 195 names from outside the municipality.

Split the Pot supports hospitals The Chatham Voice

Want to help local health care and win big? Now’s your chance to grab a ticket for the Split the Pot Lottery. Now heading into its second year the fundraising campaign supports 51 hospitals across Ontario, including the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance. It runs from Feb. 8 to March 21, with a guaranteed minimum jackpot of $500,000, making it the largest partnered fund-

raising initiative in Ontario. The Grand River Hospital Foundation is the lead sponsor of the lottery and president and CEO Paul McIntyre Royston said he excited by the lottery’s possibilities for health care across the board. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting the Split the Pot website: splitthepot.ca. All tickets purchased before midnight on Feb. 15 will be eligible for all early bird prizes.

Anniversary

PAGE 23

Classifieds

CELEBRATING THE DIAMOND WEDDING ANNIVERSARY OF

WAYNE & JANET TULLOCH Ministry

Wanted

Wanted to rent or buy 1 or 4 acres of land in Chatham-Kent area. No buildings or utilities needed. Rural area preferred. 519-3525414 or 226-6275414. Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-727-8894.

For Sale

Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Ready-to-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-354-3411

Redeemer of Love Ministry has a Christian male support group for males struggling with sexual addiction. Coffee and bible study weekly. Prayer line open 12am-7pm daily and a fellowship pot sharing meal on Sundays at 6pm. A house based ministry call Doug for more info 519-354-3532, if not in, leave a message, your call will be returned.

Coming Events

$$$$ BUYING $$$$ GOLD SILVER ALL COINS Military Items

February 21 9am-3pm Active Lifestyle Centre 20 Merritt Ave., Chatham

House Calls Available

519-818-1805

Stay in the loop and receive daily news right to your inboxB.A.B.Ed Sell your items Visit in the classifieds. chathamvoice.com Starting at only /subscribe $6.00 plus tax! Stay connected to your community Call today and support local journalism! 519-397-2020!

Dan Jones

519.397.2020

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Notice

FARM PROPERTY FOR SALE BY TENDER

Part Lot 24, Concession 11, Dover now described as Parts 3 and 6 Plan 24R-11333; Chatham-Kent containing 75.13 acres workable, more or less, with a Clay Loam soil. The property is randomly tiled and has been organically farmed for over 20 years with crops of tomatoes, sweet corn, peas, hay, snap beans, soy beans and corn. The storage shed on the property is to be removed at the sole option of the Vendor prior to closing. For information regarding the property please contact 519-401-0750. All tenders shall be submitted in the prescribed form, available from the undersigned solicitor, and shall be delivered in writing, sealed, to Anderson Law Group, attention Lindsey A. Anderson, 444 William Street North, Chatham, ON N7M 5K1 (Chatham Armoury), no later than February 29, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. All tenders are to be accompanied by a certified cheque or bank draft for $10,000 payable to Anderson Law Group, in trust. Unsuccessful tender cheques will be returned. The sale of the property is to close on or before March 15, 2024 or such earlier or other time as may be agreed to by the Parties thereto. The Vendor is not obligated to accept the highest or any tender. HST shall be in addition to the purchase price. To obtain the tender documentation please contact: Anderson Law Group 44 William Street North Chatham, ON N7M 5K1 (Chatham Armoury) Contact number 519-397-2889 Contact email: anderson@alglaw.ca

Loans

MORTGAGES / LOANS

CONSOLIDATE DEBTS LOWER YOUR PAYMENTS

Difficult Situations Accepted Borrow $50,000 for $268.04/mth $100,000 for $536.08/mth $200,000 for $1072.16/mth $300,000 for $1608.24/mth $400,000 for $2144.32/mth

WE ALSO ARRANGE UNSECURED LINES OF CREDIT/LOANS

Whether you are looking to purchase a home, refinance your mortgage, or consolidate debt, it’s important that you are making an educated decision and receiving professional unbiased advice.

For qualified borrowers. First mortgage based on 5.04%/yr fixed rate, 5 yr term, 30 yr amortization. On approved credit, & subject to borrower qualification. Rates & terms subject to change without notice.

Call John at 519-252-6953 - 24 hours or email john@unimorcapital.com UNIMOR CAPITAL CORPORATION Brokerage Lic.#10675

This week’s puzzles found on page 16

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Parent named assistant chief

hired as a volunteer with the Wallaceburg Fire DeChatham-Kent has a partment. new assistant fire chief. In 1995 he became a caDan Parent replaces reer firefighter with WalJohn Praill, who laceburg Fire retired. Department, The local prodand stayed on uct was chosen after amalgamafrom a list of cantion with Chadidates who aptham-Kent Fire plied from across and Rescue. North America. Since then, ParParent who has ent has moved dedicated himself through the ranks to both EMS and being promotDan Parent fire for more than ed to Captain in 30 years, started January 2020, and in 1991 when he became a qualified as a Senior Capparamedic with Chatham tain that September. & District Ambulance “We are looking forward Service, responding out of to having Dan join our sethe Wallaceburg area. nior management team,” He became a firefight- fire chief Chris Case said er in 1993 when he was in a media release.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 24

News

New look for concert band

The Chatham Voice

Contributed image

The Chatham Concert Band shows off their new uniforms recently. In the band’s 96-year history, this marked the first time the band has not worn its traditional red jackets. Band officials said a donation from an anonymous donor allowed them to upgrade their attire, and Ford & McIntyre in Blenheim did the tailoring for the black jackets and white shirts. This isn’t the first time the band has changed uniforms. Before the 1960s, the band was known as the Chatham Kiltie Band and members wore kilts with their red jackets. The band members will still wear red shirts for their Summer Concert Series.