Another bus service coming to Chatham
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.comA new bus service is about to roll into Chatham-Kent. Trailways.com will soon be adding a stop in downtown Chatham as part of its daily run from Toronto to Detroit.
In an interview from his office in White Plains, NY, Trailways. com president Alex Berardi said
the service is set to begin April 5.
On its way from the U.S., the bus will stop in Windsor, Chatham and London before heading to Toronto, with two runs a day. There will be two daily trips from Toronto to Detroit as well, meaning the bus will stop in Chatham four times a day, seven days a week.
Although the details have yet to be finalized, Berardi said the fees will be reasonable, with the average fare at around $45.
“It’s a great and affordable way to travel,” Berardi said, noting bus travel is convenient and environmentally friendly, with fewer CO2 emissions per passenger compared to other modes of transportation.
Berardi said the idea for the new
route was conceived after the success of Trailways.com’s Toronto to New York City route.
“We appreciate the work of our operations team as they thought there’s a really big need for the service,” he said. “We’re excited to get started.”
Chatham-Kent officials said the new service definitely benefits the municipality.
Engineering director Chris Thibert said the local Trailways.ca stop “really puts Chatham-Kent on the map.
“We’re honoured the company considered us as a location,” Thibert said, noting the bus will be stopping right beside the municipal transportation hub in the downtown.
C-K council paved the way for service last year by tweaking the rules to allow large buses to stop in the area between Harvey Street and the current terminal.
“We’re extremely excited to get this up and running,” Thibert added.
Trailways currently provides bus service from the eastern United States to Denver and Chicago. The vertically integrated company owns its own buses and is affiliated with Amtrak and Megabus, allowing for seamless travel connections for the passenger.
The Chatham stop will be located at 35 Centre St. Tickets will be able to be purchased online when the Trailways.ca website is up and running.
The closure of Greyhound bus routes across Canada in 2021 left many residents in rural Ontario marooned without affordable options, with officials saying the void has created hardship for low-income Canadians.
Hike for Hospice slated for May 7
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.comIt’s been nearly six years since Katie Holmes said her final goodbyes to her mother, Louane, at Chatham-Kent Hospice. And every year since Louane’s passing, Katie has honoured Louane’s memory and expressed her thanks to the hospice community by raising funds in support.
She’ll be back at it in early May, taking part in the annual Hike for Hospice. In fact, her fundraising efforts have been underway for months.
Her team, known as “Lou’s Crew,” has hiked since 2018.
“It is our mission to continue to give back as much as we can by our fundraising efforts. We have hosted rabbit suppers, Krispy Kreme fundraisers, bake sales and more,” Holmes said.
In 2019, Lou’s Crew took home the honour of being named top fundraising team for the Chatham-Kent hike.
The pandemic couldn’t slow down Katie and her family. But she’s glad to see the hike returning to in-person this year.
“I’m happy to hear we’re back to having an opportunity to have the event in person,” she said. “I would say the best part of participating in the hike is to connect with others.”
Katie’s deep love of the hospice came out of her darkest days –the passing of her mother. She admitted that at first, she was caught off guard by her moth-
er’s request to be placed into hospice care.
“Originally, prior to my mom becoming sick, I wasn’t familiar with the hospice. But when my mom became terminally ill, she had expressed an interest in hospice care. My brother and I felt like it was our job to take care of her,” Katie explained. “But she was interested and we went for a tour, and it was a no brainer.”
Louane spent nine days in hospice care.
“It provided us with immediate relief and a sense of comfort. I stayed with her the entire time,” Katie said. “I really got an in-depth experience being a family member. Just having those memories – they were the hardest memories, thinking back, but hospice helped us get through that difficult time and alleviated a lot of the pressures we had.”
It wasn’t just the location, but
the people involved.
“The hospice provides that tranquil setting, and the staff are incredible,” Katie said. Some even attend her fundraisers throughout the year.
“They supported me in our fundraising. It’s just incredible to see that our family is still very important to them,” she said.
Also supporting her is her workplace, Enbridge Gas. Katie said Enbridge matches her fundraising dollar for dollar.
“This is really my gift to my mom, to give back and honour her,” Katie said. “And teach my kids to give back as well.”
The Hike for Hospice raises funds to support end-of-life hospice care in Chatham-Kent.
This year’s hike is a hybrid of sorts. People who wish to walk on their own or in their own groups can do so from May 1 to 6, while the in-person event takes
place May 7.
It all happens at Mud Creek Trail in Chatham.
Before hitting the trail, hikers gather pledges to raise essential funds to ensure these families receive compassionate end-of-
life care at no cost to them. It’s also a way for people to remember their loved ones, organizers said.
For more info or to register and begin collecting pledges, visit www.hikeforhospiceck.com.
Event to deliver sights, sounds, tastes
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.comRims and Ribs 2023 is RetroFest and Ribfest blended with a twist.
March Break Day Camp
The two popular Chatham events are coming together in a three-day extravaganza to be held May 26-28 in the city’s core.
The joint effort is bringing some changes, including the cancellation of the Friday night classic car cruise – a fan favourite of vintage car buffs.
According to Connie Bene -
teau of the Historic Downtown Chatham BIA, Chatham-Kent police are unable to assist with traffic control and patrols so the cruise has been dropped.
During last year’s RetroFest cruise, a tragedy occurred when two people were killed in a collision on Queen’s Line.
“The Chatham-Kent police, for all of Chatham-Kent, will not facilitate the cruise,” Beneteau explained at a media announcement last week. “Without their resources, it’s not the safest direction to go.
“The BIA as part of the municipality has to respect that.”
In response to the cancellation, Chatham-Kent Police Service Chief Gary Conn said police have shifted focus.
In an e-mailed statement, Conn said the service has changed from a traffic management approach to a traffic enforcement approach, due to the “increasing safety issues we have been observing at these events over the years.”
According to Conn, event participants do not typically demonstrate negative behaviours jeopardizing everyone’s safety, but “unfortunately, we must now assist event organizers in providing a safe environment for all persons/ citizens attending these
events.”
The closing of Tecumseh Park for major sewer work starting on June 1 and running for the rest of the year is a big reason the events were combined.
Beneteau said Ribfest, which is run by Wallaceburg’s Chris Glassford, is normally held in July. Because Ribfest requires a lot of resources and space for big equipment, the park’s closure spurred the decision to
partner up.
“We’ve worked with Chris before,” she said, adding he normally runs the beverage garden for RetroFest.
“So, we already had a partnership,” Beneteau explained, adding it made sense to work together.
They decided Ribfest gets the park, with RetroFest getting the streets.
Continued on page 5
Rims and Ribs
Continued from page 4
Glassford will be co-ordinating the entertainment, including amusement park rides.
“If people can understand this is what we’ve done to accommodate both events for this year, then they’ll get it,” Beneteau said.
However, there’s still an opportunity for car buffs to rub elbows on Friday night. A car party for “Old Gen and New Gen” will be held in the parking lot area behind Retro Suites Hotel near the Downtown Chatham Centre. It’s open to classic cars (25 years and older) as well as newer model vehicles.
The car party, with limited spaces, will run from 3 p.m. to 7 pm.
Ribs, which is going country on Friday night, will run in Tecumseh Park from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Karaoke is on tap. The All Night-
ers Band and The Chasers Band are scheduled to play.
Saturday’s Rims will see streets in the downtown closed for the Classic Car show for the day, with awards presented at 3 p.m.
Ribs will feature a “Retro Rockin’” theme, opening at 11 a.m. Miss RetroFest will be on hand and rib judging will take place, along with a Sock Hop by BRIO. Scheduled bands include Spirit of the Sixties, the Courtney Wells Band and 89Next.
Rims will see all streets open Sunday except for William Street between Murray and Stanley for the annual Soap Box Derby.
A ticketed “Pit Party” featuring live bands will be held in the evening at Sons of Kent.
Over at Ribs, it’s the “Alternatives” with a beer garden and rides.
KickoffyourEasterWeekend with
Forced marriage
Organizers recently unveiled a detailed list of events for the Rims and Ribs event slated for May 26-28.
It’s a marriage of RetroFest and Ribfest, which is the result of planned extensive sewer work in Tecumseh Park that starts June 1. Ribfest normally takes place in the wake of the Canada Day weekend, but with the park getting ripped up this summer, Ribfest was suddenly without a home.
Enter the organizers of RetroFest. They met with Ribfest’s Chris Glassford, and thanks to the Chatham-Kent way of mutual support, we, the people of Chatham-Kent, get to enjoy classic cars and the succulent taste of ribs, all on the same weekend.
Just don’t get any rib sauce on any of those vehicles.
In some places, Ribfest would be forced to take a year off, or find a location well out of its normal home in the downtown core.
Not here.
The ability to share the downtown –RetroFest gets the streets and Ribfest gets the park – is the best possible outcome this year. Both events are huge draws for Chatham, and to lose
one, even for a year, would be a disservice to residents. This way, the car enthusiasts can stroll the streets, appreciating the many vintage vehicles that will be on display, while foodies can flock to the park.
Add in music all weekend, fun activities for the kids in the park as well, and the young and older alike will have more than a few things to enjoy.
Fergie’s statue Mark June 10 on your calendars. That’s when the life-size statue of Chatham’s own Ferguson Jenkins is unveiled at the Civic Centre.
It’s a duplicate of the one on display just outside Wrigley Field in Chicago, where Jenkins dominated as a pitcher Kudos to an anonymous donor for paying for the statue. It’s giving Chatham-Kent a lasting and classic memory of Jenkins, 80.
And, with the announcement of the unveiling, the news is getting attention across North America, as sports websites such as ESPN.com ran with the announcement.
It’s expected former major leaguers and Cubs officials will be on hand for the June 10 event.
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
Name the team ‘Rakers’
Editor: I will be short and to the point. I think the new Intercounty Baseball League team name should be the Chatham Rakers.
It is a baseball slang term meaning to really hit the ball hard, all over the park. When you’re raking, you’re hit-
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.
Chatham Voice advertising policy
or penalty to either party. Liability for errors or non-insertion is limited to the amount paid for the cost of space occupied by the error. Claims of errors must be made prior to the next publication date.
ting very well.
No such thing as ‘free’ power
Editor: The Municipality of C-K is giving away free power to electric vehicle owners through their seven new electric re-charging stations as a way to “help reduce range anxiety when travelling.” And for the next six months to boot!
Un-be-liev-able!
Is this the best excuse they can come up with to justify this waste of tax dollars and to offset the long list of reasons why this idea stinks?
This brainchild is akin to offering free phone plans to new smart- phone users because they are just learning how to use them, even though they have been on the market for years.
Electric vehicles are not
a new phenomenon. It’s not as if we are talking about something futuristic and confusing or perhaps even scary. No, EVs are becoming pretty common, the horse is long out of the pen and it doesn’t need further prodding (but then, who is going turn down “free,” right?).
Anyone who owns an EV has very likely done a great deal of research on the subject and bought it fully aware of and accepting of the range limitations and any other uncertainties that accompany a new technology purchase. This initiative is preaching to the converted.
Anyone who can afford
to buy one of these pricey vehicles can afford to fuel them too.
Just because you can’t see hydro does not mean it is free; it costs real money that real people – most of whom are NOT benefitting from this free program – are paying for. Where is our free gasoline or diesel? Here, however, is what concerns and disturbs me most of all, and should be of concern for all C-K taxpayers: That the masterminds behind this initiative seemingly did not recognize and consider that free energy has nothing to do with range anxiety. Free power is not a barrier.
Continued on page 10
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Stellar safety record at local Coke facility
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.comCoke Zero isn’t just a drink at Coca-Cola Canada Bottling Ltd. in Chatham.
Thanks to the perseverance of employees and management, the Park Avenue plant has gone 10 years with zero time lost to workplace injuries
The milestone on Feb. 6, puts the plant first for safety out of Coca-Cola’s 55 Canadian locations and was marked Feb. 22 with a special lunch and celebration. Dignitaries and executives were treated to a tour of the plant, getting a firsthand look at how 25 technicians refurbish Coke coolers for all of Canada.
Cesar Torres, who co-chairs the
plant’s joint health and safety committee, said the key to the facility’s long-term safety success is its employees.
“Everyone, every day just making sure that we’re safe and making sure things run properly,” Torres explained, adding there’s an extra incentive as nobody wants to end the decade-long run.
“They don’t want to be the guy to ruin the streak,” Torres noted. “As time has gone on, the streak has continued so we end up putting even more focus into safety.”
Well-placed signage, up-todate training that goes above and beyond government mandates, consistent safety meetings, high visibility clothing and equipment, and a neat and clean
workspace all combine for the win, Torres said.
Led by MRC facility manager Rene Lapointe, meetings are held each morning and a complete safety inspection takes place each month.
If anything is amiss, it’s addressed immediately, Torres noted, as management is onboard with making the site as safe as possible.
“Our management team is fantastic,” he said. “If we need something safety related, there’s no questions asked. We take care of it.”
The company’s motto is “see something, say something,” he added.
Part of the city’s landscape since 1938, the plant stopped bottling Coca Cola in the late
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice Coca-Cola Bottling Ltd. in Chatham (MRC) recently marked a decade of no lost time to workplace injuries. The accomplishment is attributed to a healthy workplace culture MRC site manager Rene Lapointe; Cesar Torres, co-chair of the plant’s joint health and safety committee; and Bill Pickering, senior manager of equipment operations, display the latest banner.
1980s. The re-manufacturing facility, known as the “make ready centre,” opened in 1981 and ran alongside a distribution centre
until 2014 when it was converted entirely to a refurbishment centre.
Continued on page 9
Fergie’s statue to be unveiled June 10
Many months in the works, a statue of Chatham’s baseball legend Fergie Jenkins will be unveiled in a little over three months’ time.
The full-size replica of the bronze statue that is on display just outside Wrigley Field in Chicago, where Jenkins dominated as a pitcher, will be revealed to the public outside the Civic Centre on June 10.
The statue is a gift from an anonymous donor. FirstOntario Credit Union is sponsoring the unveiling and associated ceremony. Municipal staff expect members of the Cubs’ organization, former Major League Baseball players and other celebrities to attend the event.
“Having this statue unveiled in my hometown will be very special,” said Jenkins in a media release. “I’m very proud to be from Chatham, it is
a great town and I’m excited for everyone to get a chance to see it. Thank you to Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts for allowing us to cast the exact same statue that sits outside of Wrigley Field.”
The statue dedication will take place at 3 p.m. in front of the Civic Centre and is open to the public. Later the same day, FirstOntario will host the FirstOntario Family Fun Zone community celebration.
10 years of safety at Coke
Continued from page 8
Coca-Cola Canada Bottling Limited is a family-owned Canadian company, separate from the Atlanta-based producer.
Mark Scholtes, vice-president of supply chain for the busi-
ness, said travelling to the Chatham plant every February to mark another safe year has become his “favourite” annual trip.
“There’s no other facility in Canada that has reached this milestone,”
Scholtes told the gathering.
“Zero is possible. We certainly couldn’t be more proud of what’s been accomplished by this group. This team plays a pivotal role for our entire business.”
“FirstOntario is proud to join the community and play a part in providing this recognition for baseball hero and legend Fergie Jenkins,” said Lloyd Smith, CEO, FirstOntario. Jenkins had a legendary career with the Cubs, which includes winning a Cy Young Award and a record six straight 20-win seasons in Chicago. He is
one of two Canadian-born Hall of Famers and was Canada’s first Major League Baseball player to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. He pitched 18 seasons in the majors and tallied more than 3,000 strikeouts.
Mayor Darrin Canniff expressed thanks to the owners, players, and the Chicago Cubs organiza-
tion for giving permission for the creation of a replica statue, as well as artist Lou Cella, who has agreed to make the duplicate of his original statue.
“Fergie embodies a lot of the great qualities we see throughout Chatham-Kent: tenacity, kindness, hard work, and a will to succeed,” Canniff said.
Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent Environmental Assessment Study
Wallaceburg
Water Treatment Servicing Study
Notice of Completion
Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent Environmental Assessment Study
Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent Environmental Assessment Study Wallaceburg Water Treatment Servicing Study
Wallaceburg Water Treatment Servicing Study Notice of Completion
The Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent (CK PUC) initiated the Wallaceburg Water Treatment Servicing study to identify and evaluate alternatives for the existing Wallaceburg Water Treatment Plant (WTP) to meet the current and future needs of the Community of Wallaceburg and neighbouring communities while also satisfying industrial demands. The following aspects of the water supply infrastructure were evaluated in this study:
Notice of Completion
The Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent (CK PUC) initiated the Wallaceburg Water Treatment Servicing study to identify and evaluate alternatives for the existing Wallaceburg Water Treatment Plant (WTP) to meet the current and future needs of the Community of Wallaceburg and neighbouring communities while also satisfying industrial demands. The following aspects of the water supply infrastructure were evaluated in this study:
Wallaceburg WTP
The Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent (CK PUC) initiated the Wallaceburg Water Treatment Servicing study to identify and evaluate alternatives for the existing Wallaceburg Water Treatment Plant (WTP) to meet the current and future needs of the Community of Wallaceburg and neighbouring communities while also satisfying industrial demands. The following aspects of the water supply infrastructure were evaluated in this study:
Wallaceburg WTP
Raw water intake and low-lift pumping station for the Wallaceburg WTP
• Wallaceburg WTP
Raw water intake and low-lift pumping station for the Wallaceburg WTP
Water availability at Chenal Écarte to meet the projected future water demand
Water availability at Chenal Écarte to meet the projected future water demand
• Raw water intake and low-lift pumping station for the Wallaceburg WTP
Water supply to the Dresden Water Distribution System (WDS), a potentially new service area to the Wallaceburg Water Supply System
• Water availability at Chenal Écarte to meet the projected future water demand
Water supply to the Dresden Water Distribution System (WDS), a potentially new service area to the Wallaceburg Water Supply System
Water supply to support potential greenhouse development in the expanded service area
• Water supply to the Dresden Water Distribution System (WDS), a potentially new service area to the Wallaceburg Water Supply System
Water supply to support potential greenhouse development in the expanded service area
• Water supply to support potential greenhouse development in the expanded service area
Figure 1: Study Area
This study was carried out as a Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) in accordance with the planning and design process for “Schedule C” projects under the Environmental Assessment Act as outlined in the Municipal Engineers Association’s Municipal Class Environmental Assessment document (2000, as amended in 2007, 2011, 2015 and 2019). Subject to comments received as a result of this notice and the receipt of the necessary approvals, the CK PUC intends to proceed with the design and construction of the preferred solution identified in this Class EA. At this time, an Environmental Study Report (ESR) has been completed to document the Class EA process, which identifies preferred solutions and design concepts for the Wallaceburg water supply strategy, raw water supply, and treated water transmission to meet future water demands through 2070. The ESR is available for review at the link below:
ESR link: https://www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca/wallaceburg-water-treatment-servicing-study
This study was carried out as a Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) in accordance with the planning and design process for “Schedule C” projects under the Environmental Assessment Act as outlined in the Municipal Engineers Association’s Municipal Class Environmental
Interested persons may provide written comments to the Project Team by March 25, 2023. All comments and concerns should be sent directly to Dhana Niriella at the CK PUC or to Tom Mahood at Jacobs at the addresses provided below.
In addition, a request may be made to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks within 30 calendar days of this notice being issued for an order requiring a higher level of study (i.e., requiring an individual/comprehensive EA approval before being able to proceed), or that conditions be imposed (e.g., require further studies), only on the grounds that the requested order may prevent, mitigate or remedy adverse impacts on constitutionally protected Aboriginal treaty rights. Request on other grounds will not be considered. Request should include the requester contact information and full name.
Requests should specify what kind of order is being requested (request for conditions or a request for an individual/comprehensive environmental assessment), how an order may prevent, mitigate or remedy potential adverse impacts on Aboriginal treaty rights, and any information in support of the statement in the request. This will ensure that the ministry is able to efficiently begin reviewing the request.
The request should be sent in writing or email to:
Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks 777 Bay Street, 5th Floor Toronto, ON M7A 2J3 minister.mecp@ontario.ca
Range anxiety vs. free power
Continued from page 6
Rather, range anxiety is totally a function of the charge capacity of the vehicles’ batteries, and specific to this situation, the absence or shortage of charging stations. And C-K overcame that barrier with the initial $170,000 investment in the seven charging stations. They already did the heavy lifting and there was absolutely no need to pile on more cost in the form of free power.
This fact was as obvious, but somehow it did not occur to our municipal thinkers. It’s this lack of logic, and common sense, and business acumen, and accountability that really concerns me.
The free power that is being given away is a totally unnecessary and inequitable waste of taxpayer dollars. And while it is pretty embarrassing that our municipal leaders could not even come up with a logical excuse as to why they did it, it’s never too late to admit you screwed-up and correct the error (i.e. shut down the free power). Or does that make too much sense for some to comprehend?
and
Director, Environmental Assessment Branch Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks
135 St. Clair Avenue West, 1st Floor Toronto, ON M4V 1P5
EABDirector@ontario.ca
Requests should also be copied to Dhana Niriella and/or Tom Mahood by mail or by email. Please visit the ministry’s website for more information on requests for orders under section 16 of the Environmental Assessment Act at https://www.ontario.ca/page/class-environmental-assessmentssection-16-order.
Your feedback is important to us.
To provide comments, request additional information, or if you have any issues accessing the document for review, please contact a member of the Project Team:
Dhana Niriella, Ph.D., P.Eng. PE
Project Manager, Chatham-Kent Public Utilities Commission - Engineering & Compliance
325 Grand Avenue East Chatham, Ontario N7L 1W9
Telephone: 519-360-1998
Email: dhanan@chatham-kent.ca
Let’s at least hope that the free use of these stations is being assessed and monitored over the coming months. Who is using them? How many of the users are repeat users? What is the primary reason for their use (if there is a reason other than taking advantage of free)?
How much of the free power will be consumed by municipal employees while at work? Will we be told how much free power was donated at the end of the project?
Tom Mahood, P.Eng.
Project Manager, Jacobs Engineering
72 Victoria Street South, Suite 300
Kitchener, Ontario N2G 4Y9
Telephone: 519-579-3500 extension 73241
Email: Tom.Mahood@jacobs.com
If there is no request received by March 25, 2023, the CK PUC will proceed with design and construction of the new raw intake, low lift pumping station, water treatment plant, raw and treated water transmission main, as presented in the ESR. All personal information included in a submission, such as name, address, telephone number, and property location, is collected, maintained, and disclosed by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks for the purpose of transparency and consultation. The information is collected under the authority of the Environmental Assessment Act or is collected and maintained for the purpose of creating a record that is available to the general public as described in Section 37 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Personal information you submit will become part of a public record that is available to the general public unless you request that your personal information remain confidential. For more information, please contact the Project Officer or the Ministry of the Environment’s Freedom of Information and Privacy Coordinator at 416-314-4075.
This Notice of Completion was first issued on February 23, 2023.
And here’s one more question: Why should it take six months to evaluate this wasteful project? Maybe the answer to this is the same as the “screwing in a lightbulb” question.
In closing, it really feels like the municipality jumped into this without much thought at all on how to operate and manage the business of EV charging stations. Everyone else seems to know how to run their business, why is it so difficult for C-K to run theirs?
Rick Youlton Chatham-KentAuto Show revs into Bradley Centre this weekend
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.comThe Chatham Auto show returns to the Bradley Centre after a three-year absence due to the pandemic.
Greg Hetherington, the event’s organizer and general manager of Five Amigos Broadcasting, can’t wait to open the doors on March 3.
“It’s certainly an opportunity to showcase what our local car dealers do and what they’re all about,” he said. “This is an opportunity to meet the
owners, the people that work at these car dealerships. These are the same people who have kids on your kid’s hockey team.”
It’s also a chance for the public to do some onestop auto shopping. In the past, the show has seen between 3,000 and 4,000 people stop by on a given weekend, to proverbially kick the tires on new vehicles and discuss the pros of each automobile of interest.
“People want to get out and they want to see cars and they want the opportunity to have them all in
one room,” Hetherington said. “This encourages people to shop at home too. We’ve been preaching it for 10 years now. It seems to be making an impact.”
If a dealer has the make and model of a vehicle a customer desires, there’s no point going out of town to make a purchase. “These people give back to the community,” Hetherington stressed of the dealers.
Nine of the 10 Chatham dealerships will have vehicles on display this year. Hetherington said the 10th respectfully declined due to a lack of inventory.
“One of the dealers is having a very difficult time getting inventory.”
Continued on page 15
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RONA opens Tilbury lumberyard
The Chatham Voice
RONA has acquired a pair of new stores in Southwestern Ontario, including one in Tilbury.
Blake and Bret Drew, father and son, own the two stores, with the second located in Comber.
The hardware stores will be renovated and will now offer lumber and building material products. To accomplish this, the RONA Tilbury store will put together a new outdoor lumberyard that will also serve the RONA Comber store.
‘‘We are pleased to make this transition to a full-service home improvement centre with the RONA
team. This enhancement to our offering is designed to meet the growing needs of construction, commercial, and home improvement professionals, as well as small-business owners in our communities,’’ co-owner Bret Drew said in a media release.
Built in 1988, the Tilbury store will undergo major renovations to its 11,125-square-foot retail space and add a 45,000-square-foot lumber -
Chatham Indoor Auto Show
Continued from page 11
“They wanted to showcase new product and they were nervous they couldn’t do it,” he explained.
During the heart of the pandemic, new-vehicle inventory was an issue for most every car dealership. It’s recovered to some extent, but not fully as of yet.
“Inventory is getting back to normal, but it is certainly taking longer than many dealers expected,” Hetherington said. “We’ll probably have about 80 per cent of what we’d normally have in terms of numbers for showcasing cars.”
SUVs remain the hot genre of interest in terms of style and vehicle type, he said. And electric vehicles will have a presence at the show as well.
New this year at the Auto Show is an admission fee. But with charities in need, Hetherington said it was an easy decision to make.
“One hundred per cent of the money is going to charity,” he said.
Well, money or canned goods. Admission for an adult to the show is $5 or a non-perishable food item. Volunteers will be at the door accepting the donations.
The food will be divided up between the Salvation Army and Outreach for Hunger food banks, while monetary donations will be split between the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent and R.O.C.K. Missions.
The show runs from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. March 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 4, and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 5.
Hetherington said March 4 will have a special zone for children.
“On Saturday, we’re calling it Family Day. We have a room that’s dedicated for the kids,” he said.
“There will be movies and activities.”
yard. Stitch Happens
Where one store closes
due to ownership retirement, another one opens.
Continued on page 17
IWD 2022 campaign theme: #EmbraceEquity
For International Women’s Day and beyond, let’s all fully #EmbraceEquity. Equity isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have. A focus on gender equity needs to be part of every society’s DNA. And it’s critical to understand the difference between equity and equality.
Give Equity a Huge Embrace
We can all truly embrace equity. It’s something we need to think about, know, and embrace. Equity means creating an inclusive world and we can all play a part. Each one of us can actively support and embrace equity within our own sphere of influence. We can all challenge gender stereotypes, call out discrimination, draw attention to bias, and seek out inclusion. We can all embrace equity.
Imagine a gender equal world.
A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality.
Collectively we can all #EmbraceEquity.
Celebrate women’s achievement. Raise awareness about discrimination. Take action to drive gender parity.
Being included, and belonging, feels good
When we embrace equity, we embrance diversity, and we embrace inclusion. We embrance equity to forge harmony and unity, and to help drive success for all. Equality is the goal, and equity is the means to get there. Through the process of equity, we can reach equality.
Embracing Gender Equity is the right thing to do
Don’t just say it. Think it. Be it. Do it. Value it. Truly embrace it. Embrace equity in all its forms. How will you embrace equity? Share the passion and excitement that comes from valuing and supporting difference. Reflect on how we can all be a part of the solution.
Strike the #EmbraceEquity pose
Encourage and rally your friends, family, colleagues, and community to embrace equity. Together we can work collectively to impact positive change. Let’s all embrace equity today, and always. Are you in? Will you embrace equity? Show the world your huge embrace. Strike the IWD #EmbraceEquity pose!
Strike the IWD 2023 pose and share your #EmbraceEquity image, video, resources, presentation, and articles across social media using #IWD2023 #EmbraceEquity to encourage others to help forge an inclusive world.
HUB celebrates new location
Continued from page 15
There’s a new fabric and sewing store, called Stitch Happens, that has taken over the former RB Fabrics location at 745 St Clair St. New owner Caita Baioff has a generous selection of fashion, upholstery, home decor and quilting fabrics.
Stitch Happens offers a full range of sewing classes, from learn to sew to advanced pro-level sewists. Stitch Happens can be contacted at 519-397-1660.
It’s all in the name
Small Town Sprouted Naturopathic Clinic has opened in Dresden. Run by Dr. Alecia Chevalier, the clinic offers natural options for health care in rural communities. Services include acupuncture, cupping, nutrition, botanicals and more. The clinic is located at 640 North St. in Dresden. Call 519-870-6926 or visit www.smalltownsprouted.com for details.
RONA gives to SFN
Thanks to Wallaceburg RONA’s Green initiative in 2022, it was a triple win.
The store’s dedication to reducing their footprint is a win for nature.
Their ingenuity and efforts did not go unnoticed as their corporate office rewarded the staff and a charity of their choice.
Sydenham Field Naturalists received a $1,000 donation to be used towards education and restoring native biodiversity.
ments made and efforts underway in Chatham-Kent’s business community. Send your information to bruce@chathamvoice.com.
A practical guide for women working towards healing and well-being.
• Business Voice is a bi-monthly column in The Chatham Voice that highlights some of the achieve-
Westover's Courage to Change is a holistic and multidimensional program that addresses mental health, wellness, and healing in the lives of women. Courage to Change is open to any self-identified woman who is looking for support in building healthy relationships, selfempowerment, and selfesteem.
Courage to Change is compiled of 4 separate se ssions, presented weekly. Commitment of attendance to all 4 sessions is required.
Change is a holistic and multidimensional program that addresses mental health, wellness, and healing in the lives of women. Courage to Change is open to any self-identified woman who is looking for support in building healthy relationships, selfempowerment, and selfesteem.
ssions, presented weekly. Commitment of attendance to all 4 sessions is required.
CHATHAM
St Andrew's United Church 85 William St South Chatham, ON
Thursdays 6:30-8:30pm
CHATHAM Thursdays 6:30-8:30pm
March 23rd
St Andrew's United Church 85 William St South Chatham, ON
March 23rd
March 30th
March 30th
April 6th
April 6th
April 13th
April 13th
To register visit westovertreatmentcentre.ca/courage-to-change
WESTOVERTREATMENTCENTRE.CA
Community Events
Thursday, March 2, 2023:
• The 60th 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 and will be followed by a sandwich luncheon in the parish hall. The theme this year is “Peace and Reconciliation.” The speaker this week is The Rev. Albert Lambkin, First Baptist Church. Free will offering to help Outreach within our community.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am.–1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior euchre at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
Friday, March 3, 2023:
• Adult Colouring at the CKPL Chatham Branch Community Living Café. Every Friday. 2:00pm until 4:00pm. Are you looking for a creative outlet? Need some time to escape the everyday? Come and connect with people of all ages and skill levels while colouring away the stress of the day. Come alone or bring a friend. No registration required, come and go as you please.
• St. Peter’s on the Thames is hosting The World Day of Prayer service for the Tilbury area. We are located at 5425 Tecumseh Line, Tilbury, ON. Service begins at 2:00pm. For more info: https:// worlddayofprayer.net/index.html.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am–1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00–6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are meat loaf or fish & chips. Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone Welcome.
Saturday, March 4, 2023:
• 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-10:30am. Take out only.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham
Fun Stuff
open from 11:00am–9:30pm. Meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch from 3:00pm– 5:30pm. Entertainment by Unity Station from 4:309:30. Come check out our menu. Everyone Welcome.
• Free Help CK Fundraiser Indoor Yard Sale. Downtown Chatham Centre. 10am-3pm. Household items galore. Call Geri at 519-9905178 for info.
Sunday, March 5, 2023:
• Creekside Church - 10:00am Sunday’s at the Adult Lifestyle Centre, Merritt Ave. Haven’t been to church in a while? Come find community with us. creeksidechurch.ca
Tuesday, March 7, 2023:
• Chess Club at Chatham Branch of CKPL. 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm. Drop in program. Great opportunity to learn new strategies by playing with different players. All ages and all skill levels are welcome.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm.
Kitchen open tfor lunch from 11:30am–1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Euchre at 1:00 and 7:00pm. Shuffleboard at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
Wednesday, March 8, 2023:
• Beginner Salsa Group Classes at 7:30pm. $20/person, $30/couple. 106 William St. N. (Big white house across from park) For more info visit our website www.londonsalsaacademy.ca or send us and email to info@londonsalsaacademy.ca.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm.
Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am–1:30pm. Our daily special is meat loaf dinner. Come check out our other daily specials. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
Thursday, March 9, 2023:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm.
Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am.–1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
• Retired Workers Chapter Meeting are the perfect opportunity to enjoy coffee and baked goods and visit with friends and former fellow workers. Keep up to date with the community, pensions, benefits and info provided from informed leadership and guest speakers. Spouses are welcome. 10:00am at the Unifor Local 127, 405 Riverview Dr., Chatham.
• The 60th 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 and will be followed by a sandwich luncheon in the parish hall. The theme this year is “Peace and Reconciliation.” The speaker this week is The Rev. Terry McNear. Free will offering to help Outreach within our community.
Friday, March 10, 2023:
• Adult Colouring at the CKPL Chatham Branch Community Living Café. Every Friday. 2:00pm until 4:00pm. Are you looking for a creative outlet? Need some time to escape the everyday? Come and connect with people of all ages and skill levels while colouring away the stress of the day. Come alone or bring a friend. No registration required, come and go as you please.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch from 11:30am–1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00–6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are pork loin with dressing or fish & chips. Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519351-5639. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone Welcome.
Are you affected by someone else’s drinking? Al-anon can help! Callleave message - 519-350-3462
Alcoholics Anonymous, we can help! Information Line 519-360-5246.
Submit your coming events to bruce@chathamvoice.com or michelle@chathamvoice.com
CLUES ACROSS
1. Relaxing place
4. Plant by scattering
7. A type of explorer
12. Unique traits
15. Lady
16. Dismayed
18. Railway
19. Type of whale
20. Sodium
21. Manning and Lilly are two
24. Where golfers begin
27. Entrapped
30. Influential punk artist
31. Hebrew calendar month
33. Car mechanics group
34. Undesirable rodent
35. Minneapolis suburb
37. Witch
39. Get free of
41. A written proposal or reminder
42. British School
44. Country on west coast of Africa
47. Cool!
48. Information
49. __ route
50. Jim Nantz’s network
52. Something to register (abbr.)
53. Give cards incorrectly
56. One who’s learning on the job
61. Stevenson adventure novel
63. Taking careful notice
64. CNN’s founder
65. Speak badly of
CLUES DOWN
1. A person with unusual powers of foresight
2. Single sheet of glass
3. Portrays a character
4. Expresses happiness
5. Acquires
6. “The Martian” author
7. Degree
8. 60-minute intervals
9. A detective’s pal
10. Group of nations (abbr.)
11. Popular Georgia rockers
12. Fencing swords
13. Basement
14. Samoan monetary unit
17. Male parent
22. Finnish lake
23. A smooth fabric
24. Arctic explorers (abbr.)
25. Mild yellow Dutch cheese
26. Very willing
28. Expressed pleasure
29. Lasso
32. Hindu model of ideal man
36. Move your head in approval
38. Ill-__: gained illegally
40. Die
43. Accused publicly
44. Precious stone
45. Individual thing or person
46. Behaved in a way that degraded
51. Derogatory term
54. No seats available
55. Liability
56. Popular beverage
57. Tough outer skin of fruit
58. __ Spumante (Italian wine)
59. Troubles
60. Negative
62. Camper
Mike and Sue Tumak!
Love Amy, Rob, Liam & Ethan
~ FREE HELP CK ~ INDOOR YARD SALE
Downtown Chatham Centre, March 4th, 10am-3pm. Household items galore! Call Geri Ann for info 519-990-5178.
Yard Sale in Garage, March 4 & 5th, 10am-2pm. 3 Discovery Crt, St Lawrence Way (The Landings). Art, craft supplies, tools, housewares, books, ornaments, mobility items incl scooter and more!
In Memory of 6 Years in Heaven Kevin W. R. Allison
August 8, 1961 - February 28, 2017
February 28, 2023
When Someone you LOVE becomes a Memory, that Memory becomes a Treasure, Missing YOU as much today, as the day YOU went away.
I’ve just gone before you, MOM.
In memory of Allen “Al” McGaffey
July 5, 1928 - February 12, 2021
He’s making music in heaven now Forever in Our Hearts, by his wife, family and friends
Lovingly Always in Our Hearts, MOM & Your Family.
For Sale
Wanted
Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy AllPaid Cash. 519727-8894.
Wanted to rent or buy 3 or 4 acres of land in Chatham-Kent area. No buildings or utilities needed. Rural area preferred. 519-352-5414 or 226-627-5414.
Ministry
Healing Love Ministry is an all night prayer line with counsellors available from 12:00am7:00am. Also, a male support group for those struggling with sexual addiction. A home based ministry, private and confidential. 519-354-3532.
Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Ready-to-go. Many colours available. $35. 519-354-3411
OBITUARIES
Eiola Perry
96, Friday, February 17, 2023
McKinlay Funeral Home
Anita McLaren
91, Tuesday, February 21, 2023
McKinlay Funeral Home
Susan Bechard
72, Sunday, February 19, 2023
McKinlay Funeral Home
Betty McDonald
74, Monday, February 20, 2023
McKinlay Funeral Home
Juan Reimer
58, Wednesday, February 15, 2023
Kendrick Funeral Home
Norman Snary
95, Friday, February 17, 2023
Kendrick Funeral Home
Gregory Houle
73, Tuesday, February 14, 2023
Nicholls Funeral Home
Marie Lottie Grant
79, Friday, February 17, 2023
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
John Girard
61, Saturday, February 18, 2023
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Dorothy Wickham
97, Wednesday, February 22, 2023
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Vira Howlett (Myers)
Tuesday, February 14, 2023
Life Transitions
Linda Evans
Friday, February 17, 2023
Life Transitions
Linda Wegg
61, Saturday, February 18, 2023
Life Transitions
Douglas “Grant” Morgan
63, Monday, February 20, 2023
Life Transitions
Rick Bondy
72, Tuesday, February 21, 2023
Life Transitions
Betty Morningstar
80, Thursday, February 23, 2023
Life Transitions
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.
Puzzle Answers. Puzzles on page 18
Longwood to Lakeshore Project
Notice of Commencement of Terms of Reference and Invitation to Community Open Houses
Hydro One is initiating a Comprehensive Environmental Assessment (EA)1 for the Longwood to Lakeshore Project for two new single-circuit 500 kilovolt (kV) transmission lines between the Longwood Transformer Station (TS) located in the Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc and the Lakeshore TS in the Municipality of Lakeshore. With energy demand in the region anticipated to quadruple by 2035, the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has identified the need for the first transmission line to be in-service by 2030 through their long-term planning. With such significant growth, the government of Ontario has advised Hydro One to concurrently conduct early development work on the second transmission line while the IESO further assesses the future energy needs of the region. This will allow for more efficient planning, as well as more meaningful and transparent consultation with Indigenous communities, residents, municipalities, and stakeholders.
Hydro One is committed to energizing life for communities, residents, and businesses in southwestern Ontario. For over 100 years, we’ve been powering the region and we will continue to provide safe and reliable power where and when it’s needed. This proposed project is part of a comprehensive network of electricity infrastructure in the southwest that will provide many regional benefits including: improved resiliency and reliability, economic growth and investments, and support for local food supply and security. For more information on all projects taking place in the region, you can visit HydroOne.com/Projects.
The Comprehensive EA Process
This Comprehensive EA1 will be carried out in accordance with the requirements of the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. The EA process ensures that potential natural, economic, social, and cultural effects are thoroughly considered before a project begins.
The first step of the Comprehensive EA1 process is the preparation of a Terms of Reference (ToR), which sets out the framework and workplan for addressing the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act requirements when preparing the EA. This includes outlining the studies and consultation activities to be completed, along with identifying alternative routes for the new lines within the study area, shown on the included map. Important aspects of the EA process include assessing potential effects of the new transmission lines, determining measures to avoid or mitigate these effects, and evaluating the alternative routes to select the preferred route for each line.
The anticipated submission date for the ToR is early 2024. A draft ToR will be made available for review prior to its final submission to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks for review and decision. If approved by the Minister, the ToR will provide the framework and requirements for the preparation of the EA.
We Want to Hear From You
Early, meaningful and open engagement is a top priority for Hydro One. We are hosting several engagement opportunities for Indigenous communities, residents, businesses, stakeholder groups, government agencies and other interested parties to speak with the project team, to learn more and share feedback. We encourage you to attend the upcoming open houses to get involved.
For more information, please visit HydroOne.com/Longwood-to-Lakeshore
Si vous souhaitez une copie de cette notification en français, veuillez visiter le site Internet du projet ou envoyer un courriel au projet pour en demander une copie.
Map Legend
Transformer Station (TS)
Existing Transmission Line Highway
Route Selection Study Area
First Nation Reserve Municipal Boundary Waterbody
Also referred to as an Individual EA in accordance with the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act
Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. All personal information included in a submission – such as name, address, telephone number and property location – is collected, maintained and disclosed by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks for the purpose of transparency and consultation. The information is collected under the authority of the Environmental Assessment Act or is collected and maintained for the purpose of creating a record that is available to the general public as described in s. 37 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Personal information you submit will become part of a public record that is available to the general public unless you request that your personal information remain confidential. For more information, please contact the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks’ Freedom of Information and Privacy Coordinator at 416-314-4075 or Foi.mecp@ontario.ca.
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