The Chatham Voice, May 18, 2023

Sephora coming to Chatham

The Brick and Ardene are moving to former Target location as well

Brick and Ardene setting up shop in the fall.

Target may be gone but retail is hitting a bullseye at the Thames-Lea Plaza.

The remainder of the former store is being redeveloped this summer with Sephora, The

Sephora is new to Chatham, while The Brick and Ardene will relocate from their current locations on Richmond Street West and the Downtown Chatham Centre respectively.

Dean Bradley, president of Brad-Lea Meadows, owners of the Grand Avenue building, said the new additions will have a positive impact on the community, bringing jobs and top-notch shopping.

“We are excited to welcome Sephora to our community and The Brick and Ardene to their new locations,” Bradley said in a media release. “Their presence will not only provide Chatham-Kent residents and visitors

with convenient access to exceptional products, but also create job opportunities within our growing community.”

Mayor Darrin Canniff is pumped about the news.

“Chatham-Kent is working diligently to become more attractive for both small business and big-brand investments,”

Canniff said. “The addition of Sephora to CK’s retail lineup moves us closer to establishing Chatham-Kent as a shopping destination. By creating a thriving retail environment that

meets the diverse needs of our community members and visitors, we’re not only keeping dollars in C-K, we’re keeping people here, employees here, and families here.”

The new additions are but the first phase of the development. Brad-Lea Meadows will be adding several sites for restaurants in the current parking lot. Plus, there is a 19,000 square foot space still available.

More details on when the new stores will open will be released as progress is made.

Camp fees stay the same

The Chatham Voice Fees for municipally run children’s camps

won’t be increasing this year.

Chatham-Kent council decided to turn down a hike recommended by administration following a motion put forward by Chatham Coun. Brock McGregor.

“It’s a fairly straightforward motion looking to freeze that proposed increase, understanding this is a particularly difficult year on household budgets with inflation where it is,” McGregor said, adding “the camps are really important for childcare during the eight-week school break in the summer.”

He added that incorporating camp fees into the multi-year budget process will in the future provide families certainty in their spending. While there is financial assistance for some lower-income families, McGregor said there are many families who don’t qualify for help that benefit from the Chatham-Kent camps.

It means 2023 fees are unchanged from last year and losses will be covered by the corporate variance, with any future fee hikes to be addressed in the municipal budget process.

Fees for Stay-N-Play remains at $61 and KIDventure stays at $127.

The Chatham Voice

Municipality tears down shelter under the bridge

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Following months of occupation by a cluster of Chatham-Kent homeless people under the Third Street Bridge, they were suddenly gone last week.

The makeshift shelter disappeared shortly thereafter.

The shelter, comprised of tarps, palettes and even old road signs, had stood since the middle of winter, while the homeless occupation under the bridge began earlier than that. The squatters also had fires under the bridge. There are places where the once-white concrete is clearly scorched by flames.

Mayor Darrin Canniff confirmed the shelter was pulled apart and hauled away on May 9.

“It was a joint venture between a lot of groups. They worked with the individuals living there and got them housed,” he said. “It wasn’t an ejection. But it was a safety issue.”

Polly Smith, director of employment and social services for the municipality, said the timing of the unsightly shelter’s removal and the weekend visit by Prince Michael of Kent was purely coincidental.

“Sometimes things just work out,” Smith said. “Our priority is that people’s rights are protected and they are safely

housed.”

Smith said the makeshift shelter was uninhabited when the clean-up team came May 9 to remove the shelter.

“There was nobody staying there. We were able to clean up what was left behind,” she said.

Smith confirmed the moves were voluntary,

as the people who had opted to live under the bridge were given opportunities to relocate. She added such efforts can take time.

“Anyone who is living in an encampment and on public land is given an opportunity to live elsewhere,” she said. Continued on page 4

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

An unsightly roughshod shelter under the Third Street Bridge was ripped down recently by municipal personnel. Officials said the effort took place after all its inhabitants had been relocated and had nothing to do with Prince Michael of Kent’s planned weekend visit.

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Here is the shelter as it appeared in late January under the Third Street Bridge.

Squatters accept other housing

Continued from page 3

“The choices out there are not always the choices they want. If we’re able to offer a choice that works for the individuals, it’s a win-win situation.”

NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK

Renee Geniole, operations co-ordinator with R.O.C.K. Missions, which provides street-level support to the municipality’s most vulnerable citizens, said the shelter had an ever-changing roster of inhabitants.

“There has been somebody living under there,

but it’s been different people going in and out, basically since the bridge opened,” she said. The Third Street Bridge opened fully last August after a year and a half of extensive renovation work.

“The way the bridge was built, you could tuck

yourself right up underneath there,” Greniole added. “There have been at least eight-to-ten different people using that place.”

That doesn’t count the people who would come by just to hang out.

“It also became a kind of safe place too. There are

The warm weather is here, and many Ontarians are getting out on the water. To make sure you have a fun - and safe - experience, make sure you review these six tips for safe boating.

6 Tips for Safe Boating

still a lot of people who couch surf or hop from place to place,” Greniole said. “It was used by a ton of people to go to just hang out or as a safe place just to crash for a couple of hours.”

Greniole credited Smith and her staff at employment and social services

1. Ensure all safety equipment is packed before you hit the water. Check that all the safety equipment required by law for your vessel and its size is on board and in good working condition. (Psst: you might be surprised what you legally need in your canoe!) These items include life jackets/PFD for every passenger, a First Aid kit, a buoyant heaving line, a sound signalling device (like a whistle), a bail bucket, a watertight flashlight, and a paddle or anchor. When packing up your boat, keep these items within reach. Emergencies happen fast. Other items that could come in hand include: cell phone, extra sunscreen, water, snacks and clean dry clothes.

*Extra tip - attach your whistle to your life jacket/PFD so you can signals for help in an emergency.

2. Always wear a properly fitted life jacket/PFD and be sure everyone else on board is wearing one too.

for doing a great job working with the people living under the bridge to get them alternative living arrangements.

“They worked hard to find them places to go and to work with them to find them a more longterm place to be,” she explained.

The risk of cold-water immersion is high this time of year. Within one minute of landing in the water, you can’t swim, so be smart and buckle up. Whether you’re in a motorboat, kayak or SUP board, always wear an approved life jacket or PFD. Check the label: your life jacket should be approved by Transport Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and/or the Canada Coast Guard. Don’t forget to check your lifejacket for wear, especially rips and tears. No PFD? Borrow one for free at 70 of Ontario Parks.

3. Follow the law and get your boating license (Motorized Pleasure Craft Operator Card). Pleasure craft operators are required by Transport Canada to take and pass an accredited course before they get behind the wheel of a boat.

4. Don’t drink and drive (or paddle). It’s illegal and dangerous. Have “water on the water” and save the “beer for the pier”. Drinking while boating incurs the same legal penalty as drinking while driving a car.

5. Plan your trip. Know your route, and use official nautical charts.

It’s also a good idea to fill our a Trip Preparation Form, which provides information about your boat (make, year, name, colour) and outlines your destination, travel route, expected return time, the names of all the people in your party and instructions in case of emergency. Leave a copy with someone responsible at home. Don’t forget to keep a close eye on the weather. Have a plan for getting back to shore should the water turn rough.

6. Know your vessel and its capabilities. Got a new boat? Don’t take it out for the first time on unknown waters. Each vessel is different from weight distribution to rough water performance. Find out lots more info for a great summer at www.ontarioparks.com

Inflatable water park for Erieau?

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Playing at Erieau Beach may be a whole lot more fun this summer.

An inflatable water park, dubbed ‘Aqua City,’ could be the lakeside community’s next attraction if approvals are met.

The announcement was made via video by Mayor Darrin Canniff on his Facebook page, and South Kent Coun. Ryan Doyle, along with Aqua City

owners Sam Tudorica and Michael Fife.

Doyle said he was “very pumped up” about the news, before conducting a brief interview with Tudorica and Fife.

According to Tudorica, Aqua City will be located some 200 feet off the beach and consists of obstacle courses, slides, swings, trampolines and is for everyone, not just youth.

“This exciting attraction is our first one in the southwestern region and I think it’s going to be

a great opportunity for Erieau this summer,” she said.

Fife, who was born and raised in Chatham, said Erieau was chosen because the beach is “our gem.

“It’s perfect for this sort of activity and Chatham’s very welcoming,” he said.

“Small business can thrive here,” Fife said, adding his family has been involved with small business in Chatham-Kent since the 1950s.

However, approvals are

still needed for Aqua City to proceed. Essex County council, which had originally approved Aqua City for Colchester Beach in April, reversed its decision earlier this month after hearing from residents citing concerns about safety and parking.

Mayor Darrin Caniff said it’s still early days for the C-K initiative and it’s not yet clear what approvals are needed as exact governance needs to be ironed out.

“We only started this

process about a week ago,” Canniff told The Voice. “Many things still need to be determined. The municipality doesn’t own the water. We’re not sure yet, but something will likely come to council.”

As far as the Erieau community goes, Aqua City director Fife met with the Erieau Community Association May 10 to go over concerns.

Canniff said some issues were raised at the

meeting, but noted Fife is “very keen to work with the local people to create a win-win situation.”

The mayor said Chatham-Kent will be able to utilize information gleaned from the initial Aqua City bid in Essex County.

“We will certainly do our due diligence,” Canniff added.

The water park announcement is part of the mayor’s Celebrating CK in May campaign.

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice Erieau Beach has several on-site playgrounds, but a business duo seeks to establish an in-water play area for youth and adults alike.

Opinion

Does it really matter why?

The timing of the removal of an unsightly homeless shelter has the conspiracy theorists hoarse in the throat these days. But we say, who cares? It’s gone.

We’re talking about the makeshift shelter that had cropped up under the Third Street Bridge. Points must be awarded for ingenuity for the people who occupied that space. It began as a few sleeping bags up under the new bridge shortly after it opened last summer, and expanded as the weather turned. Tarps and even old road signs were added to block out the wind.

Effective, but unsightly.

In the heart of Chatham, we had this makeshift shelter pop up. Municipal employees walked and drove passed it daily. It was readily visible from Chatham-Kent police headquarters.

Yet it continued to grow.

Until it was ripped down last week.

Some people said the timing is peculiar. The cleanup occurred mere days before Prince Michael of Kent was slated to visit Chatham as part of a weekend event for the Essex and

Kent Scottish Regiment. In fact, the regiment was to parade right past that point on Sunday.

Furthermore, work is underway at the Civic Centre for the temporary location of a bronze statue of Chatham native and baseball hall of famer Ferguson Jenkins. It would have been quite a contrast for visitors to gaze at the statue of Jenkins – a story of success and perseverance –and then turn around to look at the makeshift shelter – a story of systemic failure supporting Chatham-Kent’s most vulnerable citizens.

Officials said the shelter only came down after everyone who was living there had agreed to different temporary housing arrangements. As soon as it was vacated, the municipality moved in and tore the shelter apart. All that’s left as a reminder are scorch marks on the concrete left from the fires the occupants had lit there for warmth.

So, it is gone. More importantly, alternative housing arrangements were made for those who had lived there. In the end, that’s all that matters.

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.

Chatham Voice advertising policy

The publisher of this newspaper, CK Media Inc., reserves the right to clarify or refuse any advertisement based on its sole discretion. The publisher reserves the right to reject, discontinue or omit any advertisement without notice

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.

Questions about proposed water park

Editor: I have heard several stories on the new water park possibly coming to Erieau sometime this summer.

I think it sounds like a great idea that could bring more visitors and money to the businesses in Erieau and to the municipality. My only question is what do the owners do when

the waves get really high and rough, such as during a thunderstorm?

I have been out there and wouldn’t want to be in those waters if a person was not a strong swimmer. Also when do they assemble and then disassemble this park for

when the fall, winter and spring months come?

I would hope these are questions council members should ask at the next municipal council meeting.

Frank Doyle Chatham

Limit the flags: readers

Editor: Regarding the flag policy and the LGTBQ community. Why do our councillors make things so difficult for themselves? In our opinion only federal, provincial and municipal flags should be flown. If every organization or community group wanted to fly their flags, how many flag posts would we need? To our knowledge, there is no law against individuals flying a flag in their own yard, so they

can go ahead. We returned to Chatham two years ago and we didn’t vote because we didn’t know the candidates at that time. However, for the next year election, we will indeed vote, as we know the councillors and what they stand for. Rhonda Jubenville, Michael Bondy and Ryan Doyle will get our votes (Editor’s note: All three councillors are in differ-

ent wards).

Shame on all the other councillors for not standing by Rhonda and to turning a blind eye on the death threats she had to endure. We hope the police catch those responsible for these threats.

There is no place for bullying in Chatham or any other place in Canada.

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Upgrades for Dufferin Ave.

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Dufferin Avenue in Wallaceburg is finally getting an upgrade.

After being declined for provincial Connecting Link funding in 2017 and 2018, the Ford Government agreed to dole out $3 million to help with the $8.7-million project.

Back in 2017, the cost of the project was estimated at $4.9 million.

According to municipal officials, the scope of the project has changed since then, but inflation has played a role in the cost increase as well.

This project consists of the rehabilitation of Dufferin Avenue from McNaughton Avenue to the west limits of Wallace-

burg. The work includes the replacement of the water main from Arnold Street to the western limits; installation of a new storm sewer between Arnold and McNaughton Avenue; as well as curb replacement and new sidewalk along portions of Dufferin.

There will also be traffic signal and intersection improvements.

Construction is planned to begin in June and completed by November, with restoration work completed next spring.

Two lanes of traffic on Dufferin Avenue and access to all properties and business will be maintained at all times throughout construction, officials confirm.

Council voted to award

the tender in the amount of $8,747,892.86 for the project to Birnam Excavating Ltd.

The Ministry of Transportation’s Connecting Links Program aids municipalities with repairing designated municipal roadways and bridges that connect two ends of a provincial highway through a community or to a border crossing, the municipal report stated. There are 77 Ontario municipalities eligible to apply for funding, with the maximum amount for road work set at $3 million, with the bridgework maximum set at $5 million.

It’s up to the applying municipality to pay for the remaining 10 per cent of eligible costs and cover

all of the ineligible costs. Wallaceburg Coun. Aaron Hall said the province needs to rethink its funding allocation limits with the Connecting Link

program. The maximum of $3 million remains unchanged between 2017 and 2023.

“I think it’s really important that the province

re-evaluates the program,” he said. “Project costs continue to rise year after year. The burden continues to fall on the taxpayers of Chatham-Kent.”

Chatham Voice image

Dufferin Avenue in Wallaceburg will see nearly $9 million in upgrade work done this year.

Work includes water main and storm sewer improvements.

‘Unsung heroes’ recognized in Chatham-Kent

Super volunteers deserve super recognition.

That’s the idea behind a new initiative called the Community Recognition Awards Program.

A partnership between the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and CN Railway, the effort is designed to celebrate the outstanding contributions of local residents who have made a significant impact on the community.

Mayor Darrin Canniff said Chatham-Kent is fortunate to have an “incredible network of volunteers who work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of our residents.”

Canniff called the volunteers “unsung heroes” for their selfless contributions.

“It is important we recognize the invaluable work of these individuals and groups and showcase the impact they have on our community,” Canniff said in a media release, adding he was excited to launch the program.

Chatham-Kent’s councillors were responsible for submitting names from across the municipality.

The awards will be presented May 31, with details to be announced.

The inaugural recipients for the 2023 Community Recognition Awards are: Jackie Beatty, Thamesville; Ken Bechard, Chatham; Carole Ann Belanger, Mitchell’s Bay; Richard Bouwmeester, Blenheim; George and Margaret Darnley, Merlin; Kim Doucet, Tilbury; Hassan El Khodr, Chatham; Dianne Flook, Raleigh Township; Jim and Lisa Gilbert, Chatham; Derek and Brett Gore, Chatham; Sandra Johnston, Wallaceburg; Tim Joyce, Blenheim; Blake Handsor, Chatham; Mary Ann Hawthorne, Ridgetown; Liz Kominek, Dresden; Donna Matier, Wheatley; Donald McKillop, Highgate; James Rankin, Pain Court; Newt and Deb Richardson, Wallaceburg; Bert Vanderheide, Thamesville; Jeff Vidler, Erieau; Dorothy Wallace, Chatham; The Williston Family, Chatham; Marianne Wilson, Chatham; and Bill Wolsing, Wallaceburg.

If you know of someone who is deserving of this award in 2024, please notify the mayor’s office.

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New signage in the works for Thamesville

Plans are afoot to revamp the signs marking the entrance to Thamesville.

Proposed by East Kent Coun. Steve Pinsonneault, the project will enhance the visual appeal by incorporating art into the new design.

The project is a combined effort with financial backing coming from the Thamesville Improvement Association, the Thamesville Sertoma club and funding from the Ontario Hydro One Community Benefit Contribution.

Each Chatham-Kent councillor has been allotted $25,000 from the Hydro One fund to be used to support projects within their home community.

In a municipal media release, Pinsonneault said the signs were in

need of an update to ensure “they accurately represent the community’s values and vision for the future.”

Artistic elements will be added, he said, to reflect the unique character of Thamesville while promoting community engagement and civic pride.

“As a community, it’s important we take pride in our identity and make our mark in the world,” Pinsonneault said. “It’s important we continue to invest in our city’s future and promote a vibrant, healthy society for generations to come.”

The new signs will be designed by local artists and created with the input of community members. Pinsonneault said he hopes the Thamesville sign project will inspire other communities to incorporate art into their urban design plans.

The Chatham Voice

Hospice hikers tally $150K-plus

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

As usual, the weather co-operated and supporters laced up their walking shoes in droves for the recent Hike for Hospice in Chatham.

More than 600 people registered for the event, which took place May 1-7 along Mud Creek Trail, with the bulk of participants walking together at the in-person event on May 7.

Jodi Maroney, executive director of the Chatham-Kent Hospice, said more than $150,000 was raised. That’s up from previous years, as the hike raised $129,000 in 2022 and $143,000 in 2021.

Overall, in its seven years, the local hike has brought in more than $785,000 for the hospice.

Maroney said organizers were ecstatic with the results.

“It’s a really meaningful day for a lot of people. We were very, very pleased. We saw a large uptick of online donations this year,” she said. “This was fantastic, as we had a lot of money handed in in advance. But we did have some money come in on walk day. In fact, we’re still getting donations.”

A number of the participants opted to walk the route on their own during the week, but Maroney said there were in excess of 400 people out on hike day.

“This year, we added some pre-hike programming,” Maroney said, which included a band and a school choir. “It kept people occupied while they were waiting.”

The funds raided with the hike help provide end-of-life care including residential hospice care, care co-ordination and grief and bereavement support to local families at no cost to them.

“We are so thankful to the hikers and the donors for all they do to support our hospice families. It was so touching to see so many people walking together on the trail, and all the memorial signs are just a reminder of the impact hospice has made in our community over the past seven years,” Ginny Hawken,

special event chair for the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation board of directors, said in a media release.

A number of workplaces from across Chatham-Kent participated in the hike’s corporate challenge as well. The winning team was Hopkins Hikers from Hopkins Canada of Blenheim. Honourable mentions

go to Battery Boy, Kent & Essex Mutual Crusaders, Hub Hikers, Maple Mutuals and TekSavvy Trailblazers.

As for what the future holds for the hike, Maroney said there could be a few tweaks made. “We’re just trying to figure out what next year will look like.

We’ve got a really great, dedicated hike committee. We’ll debrief with them and get some great ideas,” she said.

with a paved 200m and 5km route accessible for strollers, wheelchairs and wagons.

Contributed image

Hike for Hospice participants set out along Mud Creek Trail May 7 for the annual event. Hikers raised more than $150,000 in this year’s effort.

Volunteers bake 25,500 smiles

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

To many of us, the aroma of fresh cookies baking is intoxicating. But when you’ve baked about 5,000 yourself in one week, and had a hand in the baking of more than five times that number, you might have a different opinion.

Mike Genge, president of the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent’s Foundation, still has a big grin in the wake of the annual Smile Cookie campaign, but he’s all cookied out for now.

Local Tim Hortons locations dedicate the proceeds from the Smile Cookie campaign to the treatment centre, and this year, organizers ramped up the baking.

The foundation, thanks to staffers Lisa Caron and Erin Genge, assembled 140 volunteers to bake cookies on top of what the Tim Hortons locations created.

“We had quite the week,” Genge said. “We would start at 7:30 a.m. so when volunteers showed up, they would have cookies to start decorating.”

Every big baking endeavour needs a large kitchen, and Genge said Lisa Lester of Four Diamond Events donated the use of the Chatham Armoury kitchen for a week.

“We built a little bakery/ factory in the Armoury. We had an area where we made them, where we baked them, where we decorated them, where we dried them and then we had a delivery area,”

Genge explained.

With the efforts of the 140 volunteers, the foundation staff managed to crank out 25,500 cookies the first week in May.

The volunteers, largely coming from the likes of

Enbridge, Handy Bros., Tek Savvy, Lally Auto Group and the Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors, worked in teams of ten, with two shifts cre-

ating the Smile Cookies each day of the campaign.

Genge said one small cluster of volunteers caused quite the stir, from his “own little New Scotland United Church” from just outside Rondeau.

Baking exploits of church women are legendary… and it led to heavy commitment from the local realtors.

“The Chatham-Kent realtors sent three shifts of 10. They’re all competitive,” Genge said. “Carson Warrener at one point said they wouldn’t leave because they wanted to make more cookies than the church ladies. It was really funny. It meant we actually made more cookies.”

The realtors baked 4,620 cookies in one day.

A baker’s dozen of Tim’s locations took part in Chatham, Dresden and Wallaceburg, and were baking cookies as well, just as they’d done previously. But this time around, with the extra effort, the outlets didn’t run out suddenly when someone rolled

through the drive-thru, ordering dozens of cookies for their company.

“In the past, it was tough for them to keep up,” Genge said. “This time, sometimes, twice a day, we would load them back up. They were very happy when we showed up.”

Genge doesn’t have the financials from Tim Hortons yet, and does not expect anything for a few weeks. What he does know is he cooked about 5,000 cookies on his own, and the volunteer team overall created 25,500 of them.

Contributed image Volunteers Bella Bechard, Jake Myers and Laura Denys put the finishing touches on a batch of Smile Cookies during the recent fundraising campaign for the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent. The centre’s foundation put together a team of 140 volunteers that ultimately baked 25,500 of the cookies, which were sold through 13 area Tim Hortons locations the first week of May.

Dog park for Blenheim?

Chatham Voice

Wanted: An off-leash dog park for Blenheim-area pooches to play.

Needed: A volunteer committee to get the ball rolling.

The municipality has put out a call for residents interested in forming a committee to support the creation of an off-leash recreation area for the community’s canines. Anyone interested is invited to submit an expression of interest to letstalkchatham-kent.ca by May 26.

All of the off-leash parks that have been developed thus far are managed by a group of 10 to 15 volunteers. These committees are responsible for capital infrastructure fundraising for the initial start-up and future capital costs.

The committee is also responsible for setting up and implementing a schedule for site clean up and maintenance, as well as reporting any violations to the municipality.

A committee chairperson

will be chosen.

Chatham-Kent currently has two off-leash dog parks operating.

The Happy Trails Off-Leash Dog Park is located in Wallaceburg and the John Waddell Dog Park is in Chatham. A third off-leash park has been proposed for Dresden, but is still awaiting municipal approval.

The municipality has identified lands near Little Street South and Snow Avenue in Blenheim as a potential site for the park.

Turtle time near Rondeau

The

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Northern map turtles sun themselves on a makeshift platform Paul Trudell, owner of Rondeau Joe’s has set up near the boat slips that abut his patio.

Handy Bros. pinch hits

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Thanks to a revamped clubhouse – with a lot of help from local businesses – the Chatham Minor Girls’ Softball Association will be hitting it out of the park for many years to come.

Some serious renovations have taken place at the Tweedsmuir Avenue clubhouse as of late, including a modern kitchen and a brand-new ductless heat pump. Recently, Handy Bros. Home Comfort employees were on scene installing the heating and cooling system that comes to the association through the Handy Bros. Heroes Fund.

Handy Bros. employee Julie Normandin, the former long-time vice-president of the softball association, said she knew the need for the system was there, so she approached company owner Mitch White about a possible donation.

she said as she watched the installation.

Paul Praill, treasurer for the association, concurred.

“I went to Mitch to see if we could help. It’s important to me, the association was my life for 14 years. This looks awesome.”

- Julie Normandin

“When the association called for a quote, I knew they couldn’t afford it,” Normandin explained, “So I went to Mitch to see if we could help. It’s important to me, the association was my life for 14 years.

“This looks awesome,”

“Things are coming together,” Praill said. “We rely on our sponsors and this is very helpful. This is a win-win.”

Along with Handy Bros., other local companies have stepped forward to help. New high-end kitchen cabinets were donated by L.B. Wood Ltd. owner Laird Vanderende, which will enable the club to operate a canteen after not having one for a long time.

Belfor is also in on the act. The company donated the labour to put in new stairs at the front and back of the building last year and they are doing the same thing this year, by building the deck for the canteen.

TKC Construction donated the labour to put a new roof and siding on the building.

According to Praill, the association serves girls age four to 19 years, with about 90 playing on house league teams. The association is home to the Chatham Golden Eagles rep and travel teams.

The Under 15 Chatham Golden Eagles team travelled to the East Coast last year and clinched the Eastern Canadian championship title.

trishstuart@aamarinefoods.com

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice Handy Bros. Home Comfort employees Brett Graves (on ladder) and Kyle Ramsden install a bracket to hold a new ductless heat pump at the Chatham Girls’ Minor Softball Association clubhouse in Chatham. The system was donated to the softball group as part of the Handy Bros. Heroes fund.

The MUNICIPALITY OF CHATHAM-KENT

FORM 6 SALE OF LAND BY PUBLIC TENDER

Municipal Act, 2001, c 25, s. 379 (2) O. Reg 181/03, s. 5(1), Form 6

Take Notice that tenders are invited for the purchase of the land(s) described below and will be received until 3:00 p.m. local time on June 22, 2023, at the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Civic Centre, 315 King Street West, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8.

The tenders will then be opened in public on the same day as soon as possible after 3:00 p.m. at the Council Chambers of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, 315 King Street West, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8.

Description of Land(s)

All lands are in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, the following are the geographic descriptions and municipal addresses.

1. Roll # 3650-010-001-01302 PT LT 1, BROKEN FRONT CON, GEOGRAPHIC TWP OF ROMNEY, PT OF THE ROAD ALLOWANCE BETWEEN ESSEX COUNTY & KENT COUNTY AS CLOSED BY BY-LAW R011904, DESIGNATED AS PTS 2,3 & 4, 24R6266; CHATHAM-KENT. Being Erie St S., Wheatley P.I.N. 00846 0448 (LT) Assessment: IX 1,500

2. Roll # 3650-010-001-66250 PT LT 10 OR 212, CON 1 OR TALBOT RD AS IN 143215 (3RDLY); DESCRIPTION MAY NOT BE ACCEPTABLE IN FUTURE AS IN 143215; ROMNEY. Being Cemetery Rd., Wheatley. P.I.N. 00847 0086 (LT) Assessment: RTP 39,500

PT LT 171-172 PL OLD SURVEY AS IN 189221; CHATHAM-KENT. Being 405 Park St., Chatham ON N7M 3S7 P.I.N. 00503 0205 (LT)

Being

23. Roll # 3650-442-008-06300 LT 21 PL 352; CHATHAM-KENT. Being 75 Dell St., Wallaceburg P.I.N. 00584 0094 (LT) Assessment: RTP 17,400

Tenders must be submitted in the prescribed form and must be accompanied by a deposit in the form of a money order, bank draft, or cheque certified by a bank or trust corporation payable to the municipality (or board) and representing at least 20 per cent of the tender amount.

Except as follows, the municipality makes no representation regarding the title to or any other matters relating to the land to be sold. Responsibility for ascertaining these matters rests with the potential purchasers. This sale is governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Tax Sales Rules made under that Act. The successful purchaser will be required to pay the amount tendered plus accumulated property taxes and any taxes that may be applicable such as the land transfer tax.

The lands do not include mobile homes situate on the lands.

The municipality has no obligation to provide vacant possession to the successful purchaser.

A copy of the prescribed form of tender is on the Municipality of Chatham-Kent website, www.chatham-kent.ca and on the website of the Government of Ontario Central Forms Repository under the listing for the Ministry of Municipal Affairs.

Tune into our Municipal Facebook page for a virtual event where the tenders will be opened live beginning at 3:20 p.m. Further details are available by visiting www.chatham-kent.ca.

For further information regarding this sale and a copy of the prescribed form of tender contact:

Title

Amy McLellan, Manager Revenue or Matthew Torrance, Deputy Tresasurer

Address

of

Municipality or Board

315 King Street West, P O Box 640, Chatham, Ontario N7M 5K8

Name of Municipality or Board

Municipality of Chatham-Kent

www.chatham-kent.ca

Personal information contained on this form, collected pursuant to the Municipal Act will be used for the purposes of that Act. Questions should be directed to the Freedom of Information and Privacy Co-ordinator at the institution responsible for the procedures under that Act.

Ridgetown seniors centre rebounds quickly

By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative The Ridgetown Independent

The background laughter from participants in the Walk It Off class at the Ridgetown Adult Activity Centre (known as The Centre) may have drowned out portions of a reporter’s taped interview. But, the sounds of people enjoying themselves were sweet music to everyone’s ears. The activity centre’s transition to a volunteer-operated facility has exceeded expectations. It was mid-March when the Board of Directors made the difficult decision to temporarily lay off staff and rely on volunteers amidst a financial crisis.

The Centre’s members have more than risen to the occasion as the number of volunteers has gone from a “handful” to more than 60 to look after the various functions from operating the front desk to helping at bingos and leading programs

as well as tasks such as cleaning and gardening.

“It’s been incredible with what’s been accomplished,” said Mary Hill, Chair of the Board at The Centre. “We struggled as a board to get volunteers for any role ... now we have 10 volunteers working on the monthly lunches alone.”

Louise Maxfield, Board Member and Volunteer Coordinator, agreed.

“It’s amazing the number of people who have come forward,” she said. “We have 12 people working on the front desk, dividing it into four-hour shifts, which I enjoy doing, to meet the people coming in.”

The community has also responded with increased business support and participation in fundraising events, such as the April luncheon and Easter draw.

And an influx of returning and new members has allowed for more programming led by volunteers.

“It’s an exciting turn-

around, not necessarily 180, but a 90-degree turnaround,” Maxfield said.

“We’re going in a different direction and vision.”

“There’s a lot of joy and happiness in the building,” Hill added. “That’s a real positive thing.”

The new 75,000-squarefoot activity centre opened last July as a successful building plan and fundraising campaign. The property at 40 Erie St. S. being donated allowed the doors to open with no outstanding debt. However, funds for operational expenses were much higher than anticipated, as coupled with low membership coming out of COVID-19, the Board was forced to make drastic changes earlier this year.

And a little under two months later, the activity centre’s financial outlook has improved immensely.

“We are operating on a balanced budget,” Board member Robert Clark reported. “And we are looking forward to expanding our programs and services.”

Hill said the Board had developed two layers for fundraising.

“The local fundraising by the volunteers, things like bingos, lunches, garage sales – the grass root

level fundraising,” she said.

The other level is being conducted by a committee seeking private and government grant opportunities.

Host band will be the Southwind Buoys; mingle with the celebrities from Rust Valley Restorations, enjoy food and drinks from our local brewery.

To enter our contest, send an e-mail to michelle@chathamvoice.com by Wednesday, May 24 at 12:00pm with the heading, Pit Party.

Please include name and phone number in email.

5 sets of 2 tickets will be chosen at random from the entries received.

Image courtesy The Ridgetown Independent Step by step, the Walking It Off Club at The Centre paves the way to a healthy and social lifestyle, then takes time to catch up and connect after their invigorating exercise class.

Scotiabank supports CKHA effort

The Chatham Voice

Scotiabank has committed more than $67,000 in support of a program developed by a Chatham-Kent Health Alliance emergency department doctor.

Dr. Shawn Segeren developed Dynamic Simulation in April of 2020. He began by arranging a series of clinical simulation sessions focused on resuscitating patients with COVID-19.

Over the past two years, the program has branched out to offer a wide variety of critical-care simulation sessions and procedural skills days for emergency department physicians, regis-

Infrastructure and Engineering Services

Public Works

tered nurses, respiratory therapists, and other specialists at CKHA.

Scotiabank has partnered with the CKHA Foundation in this effort. On May 2, Scotiabank delivered the first of two $33,600 installments for the program.

“As a Foundation, investing in innovative hospital programs is a crucial part of our mission and vision, and Scotiabank’s strong partnership in support of Dynamic Simulation will enable the growth of the program as it seeks to enhance the outstanding care delivered in our local emergency departments,” said Mary Lou Crowley, President

Public Notice of Pesticide Use

& CEO of CKHAF, in a media release. “Scotiabank has been a strong partner of the Foundation for many years, so today’s development really illustrates their ongoing commitment to enabling world-class health care here in Chatham-Kent.”

Notice is hereby given that the Municipality of Chatham-Kent intends to utilize Green Stream Lawn & Vegetation Management Inc. and Veg-Tek Agri Inc. for the purpose of controlling noxious weeds along all municipal rural roadsides.

This pesticide use falls under Public Works Exception of the Cosmetics Pesticides Ban for the promotion of public health or safety.

The following pesticides registered under the Pest Control Products Act (Canada) will be used:

• ClearView Herbicide (Reg. #29752) containing the active ingredients Metsulfuron-methyl and Aminopyralid, present as potassium salt • Gateway Adjuvant (Reg.#31470) containing the active ingredients Paraffinic Oil, and Alkoxylated alcohol non-ionic surfactants

• Navius FLEX Herbicide (Reg. #30922) containing the active ingredients Metsulfuron–methyl and Aminocyclopyrachlor

The spring spray period is expected to take place between May 15 and June 15, 2023, and fall spray period is expected to take place between September 15 and October 15, 2023 for spot treatment. Application will be weather permitting and confined to weedinfested portions of the municipal right-of-way.

A map of the specific spray locations can be requested through the Chatham-Kent Public Works Department by emailing ckpw@chatham-kent.ca.

For further information, please contact:

Jordan Gray: Manager, Public Works South, Municipality of Chatham-Kent

P: (519) 360-1998 or 1-800-714-7497 ckpw@chatham-kent.ca

Steve Ford: Green Stream Lawn & Vegetation Management Inc.

P: (905) 510-1229 or sford@green-stream.ca

Trevor Caron: Veg-Tek Agri Inc.

P: (519) 809-4812 or trevorc@vegtek.com

Clinical simulation is a teaching method that allows health-care professionals to practice critical care scenarios and resuscitation using realistic situations and equipment. It is a safe and effective

way to improve patient care and outcomes during high-pressure situations, according to Foundation officials.

“These inter-professional simulations have allowed our teams to work together to manage some very complex, interesting cases, which has really benefited the ED teams at both the Chatham and Wallaceburg sites,” Segeren said. “This strong financial support from Scotiabank will allow us to offer more high-fidelity simulations, leveraging new equipment that will allow us to better serve our ED

teams, other hospital departments, and our community as a whole.”

For Scotiabank, this partnership is part of an ongoing priority to support the growth and prosperity of local communities and demonstrate a commitment to a better future for Canadians. “On behalf of Scotiabank, we are so proud to be a part of this important initiative and to support the outstanding work that Dr. Segeren’s Dynamic Simulation program is doing here at CKHA,” Scotiabank’s Mandy Furtado said.

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice From left, Dr. Shawn Segeren, CKHA emergency department physician and founder of Dynamic Simulation; Mandy Furtado, Scotiabank district vice-president, South West Ontario District; Terri Kewley, Scotiabank branch manager; Ann Cunningham, Scotiabank small business advisor; Sherry Coppo, Scotiabank branch manager; Mary-Lynne Goodman, MD Management Limited senior financial consultant; and Bob Hockney, CKHAF board chair.

Voices in the Wind, voices in the machine

David Farquhar, president of Design Sound Productions and Voices in the Wind Audio theatre, said the companies’ work will be involved in the development of voice-recognition software.

“I’m thrilled to announce that Silicon Valley tech giant Digital Theatre Systems (DTS) came knocking on our door again, requesting assistance on a project they are initiating. While I can’t go into any specifics about the project, suffice it to say it concerns the next generation of TiVo,” he said in a media release.

Movie director Steven Spielberg co-founded DTS in 1993 and acted as an initial investor, providing the company with significant momentum.

“So it’s totally amazing to think that I will have a small part to play in the next generation of voice-recognition software,” Farquar said.

DTS’ Martin Walsh said it made sound sense to reach out to Voices in the Wind.

“The R&D team at DTS was looking for examples of professionally recorded dramatic speech for use with our new machine learning initiatives. We found that the quality of recording and performance of the voice actors used in the Voices in the Wind Audio Theatre productions more than suited our needs in this respect,” Walsh said.

The collaboration with DTS is further evidence of the con-

tinued growth and success of Design Sound Productions, Farquar said. The audio dramas and spoken word content produced by Voices in the Wind Audio Theatre will now be crucial for the cutting-edge developments in AI that DTS currently has underway.

“The licensing agreement be-

tween our companies has also set a new precedent for AI development,” he said.

Great Goose view The Black Goose in Wallaceburg recently completed a new patio. Located in downtown Wallaceburg, the patio has a wonderful view of the Sydenham River.

Continued on page 21

The Chatham Voice

Contributed image

The new patio at The Black Goose in Wallaceburg.

Community Events

Thursday, May 18, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm. Lunch served 11:00am–1:30pm. Senior euchre at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

• Jam Session at the Merlin Legion Br. 465. 1-4:30pm. Bring your instruments, singing voice or dancing shoes and clap the afternoon away. $2 donation. 519-689-4884 for info. Panzerotti Night $14.25 tax included.

• The Chatham-Kent Quilters’ Guild is back to meeting in person at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave E, Chatham. 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. Come and enjoy our presentations, guest speakers and all of the other fun at our meeting. Our membership fee is $50 per year and this entitles you to our newsletter and all of our regular meetings free of charge. You are welcome to contact us through our Facebook page or our website at www.ckquiltguild. com for more information.

Friday, May 19, 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. Lunch served from 11:00am-1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00–6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials: roast beef or fish & chips. Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone Welcome.

• 5pc Perch at the Merlin Legion Br. 465. $19.00 tax included. Merlicken Chicken $13.50 tax included or combo $19.00 tax included. Meal includes baked or fries, coleslaw, bun & dessert. No menu tonight available. Please call and reserve meal if possible. Walk-ins are always welcome. 519-689-4884 for info.

Saturday, May 20, 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 open 11:00am-9:30pm. Meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Lunch served 3:00pm– 5:15pm. Entertainment by the Marquis from 4:30-9:30. Come check out our menu. Everyone Welcome.

• Merlin Legion Br. 465 kitchen opens at 3pm. 2pc chicken $10.50 tax included; 3pc chicken $13.50 tax included + menu. Karaoke Bob 7pm11pm (free draw). 519-689-4884 for info.

• Walpole Island First Nation 29th Annual Spring Pow-Wow. Bkejwanong M’nookmig Jiingtamook. Free for all to attend, bring your family, friends, guests. Grand Entry at 12pm & 6pm. Inter-tribals, Hoop dance, Owl Dance. WIFN Indian Residential School Survivor Group Eagle Staff Presentation. Committee Specials. Singing Groups. Honour Guard. Walpole Island Sports Complex Fairgrounds. More information at: stacey.nahdee@hotmail.com or 226-62-9133.

Sunday, May 21, 2023:

• Creekside Church - 10:00 a.m Sunday’s at the Active Lifestyle Centre, Merritt Ave. Haven’t been to church in a while? Come find community with us. creeksidechurch.ca

• Walpole Island First Nation 29th Annual Spring Pow-Wow. Bkejwanong M’nookmig Jiingtamook. Free for all to attend, bring your family, friends, guests. Grand Entry at 12pm. Inter-tribals, Hoop dance, Owl Dance. WIFN Indian Residential School Survivor Group Eagle Staff Presentation. Committee Specials. Singing Groups. Honour Guard. Baby Pageant. Youth & Adult Smoke Dance Exhibition & Special. Walpole Island Sports Complex Fairgrounds. More information at: stacey.nahdee@hotmail.com or 226-62-9133.

Tuesday, May 23, 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 11:00am–9:30pm. Lunch served from 11:00am–1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Euchre at 1:00pm. Shuffleboard at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Wednesday, May 24, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm. Lunch served 11:30am–1:30pm. Daily

special is meatloaf dinner. Check out our other daily specials. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Thursday, May 25, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm. Lunch served 11:00am–1:30pm. Senior euchre at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

• Jam Session at the Merlin Legion Br. 465. 1-4:30pm. Bring your instruments, singing voice or dancing shoes and clap the afternoon away. $2 donation. 519-689-4884 for info. Panzerotti Night $14.25 tax included.

Friday, May 26, 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. Lunch served from 11:00am-1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00–6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials: liver & onions or fish & chips. Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-3515639. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone Welcome.

• Homemade Legion Burgers or Hot Hamburg at the Merlin Legion Br. 465. Meal includes baked or fries, coleslaw & dessert. +menu available. Please call and reserve meal if possible. Walk-ins are always welcome. 519-689-4884 for info.

• Art Thomas Spirit Filled Life Conference. Speaker: Art Thomas - Missionary-Evangelist-Teacher. Join us for teaching: Identity in Christ, Power Evangelism, Hearing God’s Voice and Healing. Friday, May 26 @ 7pm. Saturday, May 27 @ 9:00 am. Also 1:00 pm. Healing Service 7:00 pm. Sunday, May 28 @ 10:30 am. Location: Running Creek Ministry. 29292 Running Creek Rd. Wallaceburg, ON. Call:519-328-5672.

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

Fun Stuff

52. Mild expression of surprise

CLUES DOWN

1. Unit of angle

2. Headgear to control a horse

3. Clots

4. Follows sigma

5. A woman who is the superior of a group of nuns

6. Greek units of weight

8. Radio direction finder (abbr.)

9. Systems, doctrines, theories

CLUES ACROSS

1. Relative biological effectiveness (abbr.)

4. Chinese philosophical principle

7. Branch

8. Jewish spiritual leader

10. Slang for requests

12. “So Human An Animal” author

13. Rocker Billy

14. British Air Aces

16. Type of tree

17. “Tough Little Boys” singer Gary

19. State attorneys

20. Goddess of fertility

21. Localities

25. Beloved singer Charles

26. Clue

27. Ridge of jagged rock below sea surface

29. Helsinki neighborhood

30. Farm resident

31. Ocean

32. Where ballplayers work

39. Unable to hear

41. Cool!

42. Cape Verde capital

43. One point north of due east

44. Kilo yard (abbr.)

45. Middle Eastern nation

46. It yields Manila hemp

48. People operate it (abbr.)

49. Regenerate

50. Not healthy

51. Chinese sword

11. Stony waste matter

14. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

15. Hostile to others

18. U.S. State

19. Not wet

20. Something one thinks up

22. Where beer is made

23. Clumsy person

24. Belonging to us

27. Canadian flyers

28. Greek goddess of the dawn

29. Snakelike fish

31. Unhappy

32. Fruit

33. Not good

34. Zero degrees Celsius

35. Goo Goo Dolls’ hit

36. Crawls into the head (folklore)

37. Legally responsible

38. Move in a playful way

39. Regarded with deep affection

40. Partner to flowed

44. Native American tribe

47. Head honcho

Puzzle

Answers can be found on page 22

Sons of Nashville?

Continued from page 19

Sons of Kent Brewing Co. recently sent a crew to Nashville to attend the Craft Brewers’ Conference.

According to a social media post, the team sees the event as a “great place to network and check out all the awesome things happening in the beer world.”

Bill’s Place opens in Chatham

Years in the making, Bill’s Place, a safe space for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, opened recently on Centre Street in Chatham.

Named after the late Bill Brokenshire, a teacher who donated money to help create just such a space, Bill’s Place is located at 48 Centre St. Three years in the making, Brokenshire’s vision has come to fruition. Cha-

tham-Kent Gay Pride Association members held a grand opening recently to showcase the space.

Colourful and cozy, Bill’s Place is accented with funky art, a couch and comfy chairs. There’s a piano for future sing songs, a brilliant rainbow-hued mural, plenty of houseplants and an aura of “make yourself at home.”

Previously used as former MP Dave Van Kesteren’s constituency office, the building was purchased by the Chatham-Kent Gay Pride Association and extensively renovated in keeping with Brokenshire’s dream.

In addition to the community space on the main floor, two new apartments have been added upstairs to help pay utilities and taxes. All the furnishings were either donated or purchased at low cost.

Women’s club at Gentry Manor

Gentry Manor has started up a women’s club.

It’s a place for women to meet, mingle and enjoy a cocktail.

There are a limited number of memberships avail-

able at this point. The club “convenes” on Friday evenings.

Gentry Manor is located at 9 Park St. in Chatham. For more information, send a note to info@gentrymanor.com.

• Business Voice is a

Walk for Alzheimer’s events underway

The Chatham Voice

It’s time to lace up those running shoes and take part in the IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s to help achieve this year’s

$60,000 fundraising goal. Walk Wednesdays are back in May and Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent (ASCK) organizers hope local residents will come together to help those living with

dementia by taking part in one of the many activities happening across Chatham-Kent.

The schedule for the weekly walks includes Wallaceburg’s Crother’s Park Trail on May

24 from 5:30-7 p.m. and Kingston Park Trail in Chatham May 27 from 10 a.m. to noon.

To register for the walk access www.walkforalzheimers.ca.

bi-monthly column in The Chatham Voice that highlights some of the achievements made and efforts underway in Cha-

Contributed image

tham-Kent’s business community. Send your information to bruce@chathamvoice.com.

From left, Sons of Kent personnel Colin Chrysler, Justin McMath, Alf Hunter and Doug Hunter recently headed to Nashville for a little professional development excursion.

In

Classifieds

Memoriam

John Majek - May 2018

Thinking of and missing you every day. This is your favourite time of year. The days getting warmer, the wheat growing taller and greener, cultivating ground and taking pride by planting each and every bean and corn seed giving it the best possible start. Your hard work and dedication came with blood, sweat and tears but was always strongly conquered by the safe joyful harvest, great friends and nature, the river, dances, food, music and prayer. Looking up to you and more and more.

Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND OTHERS

All claims against the Estate of Teddy Charles Orval Ritchie (also known as Ted Charles Orville Ritchie and Edward Charles Orval Ritchie), late of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, who died on or about the 18th day of September, 2022, must be filed with the undersigned personal representatives no later than May 31, 2023, after which date the estate will be distributed having regard only to the claims of which the Estate Trustee then shall have notice.

DATED at Chatham-Kent, this 21st day of April, 2023.

Edward Charles Phillip Ritchie & Charles Leroy Ritchie

Estate Trustees With a Will by their lawyer

Hinnegan Law Professional Corporation

75 Thames St., Box 428

Chatham, Ontario N7M 5K5

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.

Wanted

BUYING: coin collections and silver coins. Any questions call Paul 289-2282817.

For Rent

2 bedroom condo with new kitchen cupboards, new living room flooring and new paint. Available June 1, 2023. $1699 + hydro. No pets, first and last required. Please call 226-626-5622.

Serious inquires only please.

For Sale

2 pair of Harley Davidson boots. 1 used - $40, 1 brand new - $60. Size 8 mens. Phone 519-351-8226.

For Sale

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

519-354-3411

Wanted

Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy AllPaid Cash. 519727-8894.

Wanted: scrap air conditioners and electric motors. Will pick up anything. Phone 226-2292614.

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 226-6275414.

This Weeks

Puzzle answers. Puzzles on page 20

We cherish the memories of his laughter & smiles, He is always in our thoughts.

Loved and missed so much, Mom,

Stump

Wanted

PAYING TOP DOLLAR Gold, Silver, All COINS, Canada, USA, World. Free Estimates, Private appointments available, Thursday, June 1, Active Lifestyle Centre, 20 Merritt Ave., Chatham. 9am-4pm. Friday, June 9, Blenheim Arena, 199 King St., Blenheim. 9am-1pm. All wind up pocket and wrist watches. Old paper money, stamp collections. House calls also available. Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 55 yeasr expeerience. 519-8181805.

Registration

KMHA Hockey Registration for the 2023-2024 season is now OPEN

Accepting players born 2004-2019 Registration starts at $450 per player HOCKEY BENEFITS

www.kentminorhockey.com

Asphalt

ROBERT

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Obituary Obituary

Florinda Rosa da Rocha

Passed away peacefully at Riverview Gardens Nursing Home, on Sunday, May 7, 2023. Florinda Rosa da Rocha, age 101, is predeceased by her beloved husband José Maria De Ascenção (2017). Florinda was born in Ermida (Ponte da Barca), Portugal on January 19, 1922, daughter of the late António Joaquim da Rocha and Ermelinda Alfonsa da Costa. She will be forever missed by her children Maria Martins (Daniel-deceased), Manuel (Rosa) De Ascenção, Otelinda (José Maria) Gonçalves and Ana (José) Machado. Proud Avó of 9 grandchildren and proud Bisavó of 16 great grandchildren. Predeceased by daughter Rosa (Manuel) Laurentino and her brother and sister. Florinda will be sadly missed and held dear in the hearts of her family, relatives, and many friends in Canada, Portugal and France. All her life Florinda was a woman of service to others. In Ermida, as a midwife, she helped many women and brought many children into the world. Also, in times of illness, she helped many sick people and helped save many lives. Florinda was a warrior, brave, fearless, supportive, and compassionate with all those around her, never leaving anyone behind. She lived her life with love, dignity, and dedication to others. She was an example not only to her family but also to her community. Florinda loved to sing, tell stories, and had a weakness for sweets. She was proud of her children and adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She reminded all of us to be honourable, generous and kind. She leaves a legacy of sacrifice, generosity, and positivity that we all hope to follow. She will be remembered for her strong faith, her courage, her strength, and most of all her devotion and love for her family. She will live in our hearts forever. Friends and relatives visited at the Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home, 156 William St. S. Chatham (519-352-5120) on Wednesday, May 10, 2023 from 2 - 4 and 7 - 9 pm. A Funeral Mass was celebrated on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at 11:30 am at St. Agnes Church. Burial will be at St. Anthony’s Cemetery. Donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in memory of Florinda would be appreciated.

William Neff

It is with heavy hearts, that we announce, the passing of William “Bill” Fredrick Neff, age 92, of Chatham, on Friday, May 5, 2023. Beloved husband and best friend, for 70 years, of Donna (Grocott) Neff. Born in Chatham in 1930, son of the late Mary Jane (McNichol) and Fredrick Neff. Loving father of Deb (Art) Strohm, Sandy (Trevor) Richardson, Michael (Tammy) Neff, Sally Neff and John Neff. Proud grandfather of 12 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Mary Jane (Ralph) Pyne, sister-in-law Mary Joyce (Aldeo) Rossignol and several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his sisters Betty (Don) Mahon, Peggy (Ray) Moore, Pat (Jim) Wimpress and his brother-in-law Allan (Vi) Grocott. A welder by trade, he owned a welding business, making many ornamental railings and fences, in the area. The Legion archway and fence, at Maple Leaf Cemetery were some of his creations. He worked as a lineman, for the Chatham Hydro, for 18 years. He also formed and played drums, in two bands, the Playboys and Bill Neff & the Bluenotes. Then, he and Mom, bought a variety store and renamed it, Neff’s Kwik Stop. Their last adventure was Indian Creek Golf Course. Mom was the love of his life and family was his greatest joy. Special thank you, to the wonderful staff, at Copper Terrace and their previous home, Grand Retirement. Friends and relatives visited at Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home, 156 William St. S. Chatham (519-352-5120) on Friday May 12, 2023. A Funeral Mass was celebrated on Saturday May 13, 2023 at 11AM in Blessed Sacrament Church. Burial in St. Anthony’s Cemetery. Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated. Online condolences welcomed at www. peseski.com.

Aline Normandin

Aline was born in Chatham, Ontario to the late Simone Berthiaume and Adolphe Normandin on November 9, 1934. She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. She was as dedicated to her career as a pediatric nurse as she was to her family. She was someone who was always there, someone you could always turn to. One of her biggest pleasures in life after retirement was becoming a grandmother. She loved her dogs, watching and debating the news, playing computer games, and getting together with family. She will be deeply missed by her daughter Myka (Caroline), grand-daughter Samantha, sister Pauline (Roger), niece Tealey and grand niece and nephews: Beck, Kyle and Matthew. As well as by her her grouchy yet lovable teacup poodle support animal Suzie. The funeral service will be held at St Agnes church in Chatham, Ontario May 26, 2023 at 11am, 1 year after her passing. The burial service will follow at Maple Leaf Cemetery.

Donald Alexander Mason,

(June 11, 1944 - May 4, 2023)

Don was a devoted son, a good brother, a loving husband and best friend to his wife. A dedicated father, grandfather and great grandfather to our entire family. Don was a Chatham boy with deep roots in the surrounding community. He served proudly for 27 years as an Ontario Provincial Police Officer. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. As he recently said, “There is no Plan B” so his legacy of being generous and kind, cherishing family time and of course his sharp wit will be carried on through all of us. Until we meet again. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Chatham-Kent Hospice. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

McKinlay Funeral Home, 76 Main Street East, Ridgetown, 519-674-3141

OBITUARIES

Jean “John” Rock Fournier

83, Thursday, May 4, 2023

Nicholls Funeral Home

Barbara Elaine Apps

73, Monday, May 8, 2023

Nicholls Funeral Home

Sandra Gauthier

61, Wednesday, May 3, 2023

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Ron Cameron 85, Wednesday, May 3, 2023

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Marlene Trepanier

Tuesday, May 2, 2023

Life Transitions

Howard Easter 93, Sunday, May 7, 2023

Life Transitions

Brett Lawrence 50, Wednesday, May 10, 2023

Life Transitions

Don Mason 78, Thursday, May 4, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Marjorie Torrance

Saturday, May 6, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Kathryn Day 90, Sunday, May 7, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Craig Cromwell

67, Monday, May 8, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Edith Lubbers

85, Tuesday, May 9 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Romeo Myers

89, Tuesday, May 9, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

John Allen Payne

62, Wednesday, May 3, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Sr. Doreen Park

Sunday, May 7, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Florinda Rosa Da Rocha

101, Sunday, May 7, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Aline Normandin

May, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

William “Bill” Neff

92, Friday, May 5, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

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