105 and thriving
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
At 105 years old, Dorothy Chapple continues to live her best life.
The outgoing centenarian marked her milestone birthday July 2, making her the second-oldest resident in Chatham-Kent.
Chapple, who lives at Maple City Retirement Residence, celebrated with family and friends last week and had a surprise party complete with cake and greetings from town crier George Sims.
Chapple admitted she’s a little surprised to be turning 105.
“I never thought I’d be up to 100, let alone celebrating like this,” Chapple told the gathering.
“I’ve had a full life. Lots of friends and good times have kept me going.”
Chapple’s post-retirement life is a lesson in aging well. Her many adventures include learning to scuba dive at 85 and riding on the back of a motorcycle at age 99.
She’s also a veteran snowbird, having spent more than 50 winters in Florida. Last winter she flew down to the sunshine state with her son, but flew back to Canada by herself.
Born after the end of the First World War in 1919, the birthday girl remembers when Chatham’s King Street West was a deeply rutted dirt road.
“The streets were loaded with tractors, wagons and horses bringing sugar beets,” Chapple told The
Voice. “If you got down in a rut, you didn’t get out.”
Chapple, nee Newberry, was born to Bert Newberry and Margaret McDonald. She attended Central School for elementary – where the current Chatham Post Office stands – and the Chatham Collegiate Institute for secondary school.
From there she took a business course and then got a job as a stenographer with the Dominion Sugar Company in Chatham. When the sugar beet factory closed, she went on to work for many years at Union Gas, from where she retired.
Her career also included teaching music part-time at Ursuline College Chatham.
Continued on page 4
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Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice Chatham resident Dorothy Chapple celebrated her 105th birthday Friday at Maple City Retirement Residence. Her son Allan Chapple, left, and town crier George Sims were on hand to offer congratulations.
No homes to show for $412K investment
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Three Chatham-Kent residents say a Wallaceburg company that builds tiny floating homes has sunk their dreams.
That’s what Meg Connelly, Melissa Jacob and Keith Thompson have to say about Wallaceburg-based Stronghouse Canada Corp./Twin Dolphins Canada Corp. which owes the three of them a combined $412,000.
They were awarded the money – plus court costs – in an Ontario Superior Court of Justice judgment made in Chatham in November. The documents name company owner and president Alex Topol as the person who owes the money.
-
She reached out to Topol and quickly made the decision to put $100,000 down in January 2021 towards a $200,000 futuristic Aqua Dome model. Connelly subsequently sold her mortgage-free home and began to prepare for her new way of life.
An emotional Connelly said she had “faith” in Topol, noting he “begged” her to trust him. She did a credit check on Topol, which revealed nothing, and also consulted a local lawyer about the contract for good measure.
“It sounded magical to be able to get affordable housing on the water,” she said. “It seemed like such a great idea.”
“It sounded magical to be able to get affordable housing on the water. It seemed like such a great idea.”
Meg Connelly
In a joint interview with The Chatham Voice, Connelly, and Jacob, speaking on behalf of her partner Thompson, said both parties put large deposits towards the purchase of the eco-friendly homes. Today, all they have are empty bank accounts and broken promises.
As of press time, Connelly said she had received a total of $100 from Topol in 2024.
According to Connelly, 71, her journey began in 2020, when she read about Stronghouse Canada in a local newspaper. The retired nurse said she was thrilled about the possibility of living out her retirement in an ecologically sustainable home on the Sydenham River in Wallaceburg.
Months passed and Connelly’s tiny floating home didn’t materialize. In 2021, she ended up living in a mobile RV that belonged to Topol in her daughter’s backyard. She spent a year there only to be told in January 2022 Topol couldn’t build the Aqua Dome model because it was top heavy.
More months passed and still no floating home.
Connelly was given multiple delivery dates that came and went. In August 2022, after a great deal of back and forth with Topol and other Stronghouse Canada representatives, Connelly launched a civil suit to recoup her money. All told, she had $268,000 invested in the home, having purchased extras, including a $45,000 off-grid package. Jacob’s saga with Topol and
Stronghouse Canada began when she and her partner saw an ad from the company posted on a fence at the Lighthouse Cove marina. Thompson owns a lot there and the couple thought a tiny floating home would be perfectly suited to their needs.
Like Connelly, the pair –both truck drivers – was excited about the possibilities and put $101,000 down on the $350,000 Sweetgrass model. They also agreed to make payments of more than $2,697 per month until 2025.
Jacob said the couple was assured by Topol that the proper zoning applications were in place.
However, the couple later learned, as described in the 2023 civil judgment, that floating homes are not allowed in Lakeshore.
“I get a pain in my chest when I talk about it. We just want our money
back.”
-
Melissa Jacob
Time passed and no house was built. Jacob said the two began to doubt the deal. They stopped making payments after nine months and launched a civil case against Topol and the company.
According to Jacob, the issue has rendered unremitting stress.
“I’m surprised that we made it,” Jacob said of
Civil court orders repayment
Continued from page 3
“I get a pain in my chest when I talk about it,” she added, touching her heart. “It’s awful. We just want our money back.”
Jacob and Thompson now find themselves attempting to cobble together a downpayment on a house. They are coping with a financial loss amounting to about $85,000 each.
Connelly has lost her life savings. Stronghouse Canada owes her $300,000, minus $15,000 she was paid by Topol just prior to the 2023 civil ruling.
But that money was eaten up by lawyer’s fees, Connelly said.
Connelly, who ended up buying an apartment in a Wallace-
burg condominium complex, said she now has a mortgage – something she never envisioned after working for 43 years.
“I wanted to travel. I was downsizing so I could have less expenses. Now I’m looking for a part-time job,” she said.
“I want him (Topol) to go to jail,” Connelly said.
“Me too,” echoed Jacob.
When contacted by The Chatham Voice, Topol agreed to an interview. When questioned, he challenged many of the statements made by Connelly and Jacob,
stating he has every intention of paying the money back.
Topol told The Voice he didn’t lie to his clients and when he repays them, he expects a “big apology.
“I never give up. I’m struggling here because I’m an old-fashioned guy and don’t want to betray people,” Topol stated.
The builder, who said he worked for the Canadian government for 14 years constructing military bases, blames the COVID-19 pandemic for derailing the company’s plans.
Topol said a contract to build 24 tiny homes in Arizona fell through and the pandemic sty-
mied access to supplies and equipment. Plus, there were lengthy delays to ship a machine he owned from his native Europe needed to build the homes. The machine is used to create a lightweight composite material used in constructing the tiny structures, he said. Topol was quick to point out that the tiny homes in question are in fact, floating vessels and can be located anywhere on water. This was in response to statements made by Connelly and Jacob saying he falsely told them he had approval from Lakeshore and Chatham-Kent to go ahead.
Continued on page 5
Second oldest C-K resident celebrates her birthday
Continued from page 2
Dorothy married Jack Chapple in 1940 and they celebrated 62 years of marriage before he passed away. The couple had one son, Allan Chapple, who in turn had two daughters, Sherry and Terry. The matriarch now has five great grandchildren and five great, great grandchildren.
A life-long golfer, Chapple joined Maple City Golf & Country Club in 1957 and was a member until her late 80s. She was also into boating and curling.
“I enjoyed sports very much. I played every sport there was, even hockey with the men on the river,” she said.
When asked about the secret to her longevity, Chapple said being “raised on oatmeal porridge” helped, plus winters in Florida added years to her life.
Maple City Retirement Residence recreation director Carley Harlick said Chapple is one of a kind.
“She’s really outgoing and not afraid to try anything,” Harlick said.
“She’s one of these ladies who really wants to get to know others. She’s interested in people and is very friendly.”
The only person in C-K older than Chapple is her friend Evelyn Hyatt who is 106. The two were besties all through school, having started kindergarten together.
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Melissa Jacob, left, and Meg Connelly display pictures of the eco-friendly tiny float homes they had planned to buy from Wallaceburg based Stronghouse Canada Corp./Twin Dolphins Canada Corp. Although sizable deposits went towards buying the homes, they were never built. The Ontario Superior Court of Justice delivered two judgments ordering the company to pay Jacob and her partner $127,000, and Connelly $300,000.
Dreams done, they just want their money back
Continued from page 4 Going forward, Topol said he’s in talks to build a tiny home complex comprised of 82 tiny homes or vessels in an undisclosed location in Ontario. When he seals the deal, Topol said he’ll pay the money back “as soon as he can.”
However, he no longer has a shop and all of his equipment is warehoused in different spaces.
Currently, Topol is liv-
ing in an RV at a Wallaceburg scrapyard and is not building any vessels or tiny homes.
From
Opinion
Earned respect
We must say, journalists in Chatham-Kent aren’t getting enough respect.
Yes, we understand respect is earned. And we think C-K’s reporters, from various outlets, have more than earned that respect.
To some extent, it’s a spillover from national and even international treatment of the media in general.
The term “fake news,” which is laughable when applied to traditional media outlets, continues to permeate through society, unfortunately. Now, if you apply it to political party press releases, or to fringe web elements who say such things as the Sandy Hook shootings never took place… yes, that’s fake news.
Reporters have a job to do. It’s to share information – true information – with the public. A huge part of the media’s job is to keep politicians and government personnel in check. It’s not an easy task.
And, yes, we do make mistakes. It happens. We are human.
Yet, the disrespect can come from many directions. It comes from those citizens who seem to think any journalism outlet is in cahoots with government. That’s just patently false.
But more and more here in Chatham-Kent, we’re seeing political leaders disrespecting the media.
It comes in many forms, and most are subtle, but a growing one is not respecting journalists’ time. Reporters usually have multiple assignments in a given day, just as municipal staff and other public officials do. Reporters don’t keep the public officials waiting, so neither should the public officials disrespect the journalists by doing the same.
As stated, we are champions of the truth.
So when a high-ranking municipal manager, through an intermediary, requested that we pull a story about that official off our website, we asked one question. “Was it factually inaccurate?” The answer was no.
The story is still on our website.
We are not the mouthpiece of public officials. We report; we don’t regurgitate.
One wonders if this open complaint will constitute some violation of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent’s new public conduct policy, as we have openly disagreed with the actions of municipal officials in a very public format, to be seen by multiple staff and councillors. Such a form of mass communication, according to the policy, does not sit well with said officials. Oh, well. It’s not our job to agree with them.
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).
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.
Resident loves C-K, and loves The Voice
Editor: I moved to the city of Chatham in 1993 from London. It was a move that I still consider one of the best moves of my life.
And that’s not for my successful career, it turns out (38 years), but because of the community.
Chatham-Kent is amazing; welcoming, friendly,
generous and full of hidden gems. I now refer to it as my home town.
Also, I wish to add that I receive two paid newspaper sub scriptions (The London Free Press and the Chatham Daily News) along with two free weekly local editions (one is The
Voice). In my humble opinion, The Chatham Voice is the best of the four.
To you and your staff, keep up the great work!
Man robbed of independence
Editor: My husband has worked all of his life until he turned 70 when he was diagnosed with lung cancer and emphysema. He always loved to work in the yard and garden. When he got to the point where he could no longer mow the lawn, due to his illnesses, our kids bought him a riding lawn mower.
Now, at least he could continue to enjoy working in the yard. This is the only thing left that my husband can do on his own that gives him a sense of usefulness and accomplishment.
er, along with other items.
To the person who did this, I would say that you did not just take our property, but you took away the last of my husband’s independence.
A few weeks ago, someone broke into our garage and stole his rid-
Glenda Pilon Chatham-Kent
Chatham
Dale Scrimshaw Chatham
York1 forced to pay for an EA
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
The Ontario government has ordered a comprehensive environmental assessment for the proposed landfill near Dresden. But while members of Dresden C.A.R.E.D. (Citizens Against Reckless Environmental Disposal) see the move as positive, they’re digging in for the long haul.
Following the announcement, Dresden C.A.R.E.D. chair Stefan Premdas said that while the non-profit is grateful for the EA, it wants to remind Premier Doug Ford of the words he spoke publicly in Essex, when he stated that if the people of Dresden don’t want the landfill, they
don’t have to have it. “This is nowhere close to being over,” Premdas stressed. “This is a war and the fight is just beginning. We now know the rules of engagement and we’ll be going over the procedure with a fine-tooth comb.”
As part of the decision from the Lieutenant Governor in Council, property owners York1 Environmental Waste Solutions Ltd., must complete the assessment under Part 11.3 of the Environmental Assessment Act – the highest level of environmental assessment in the province.
Under the protocol, the EA requires the assessment of potential environmental impacts and public consultation. Furthermore, the project can’t
go ahead unless the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks makes a decision with the approval of the Lieutenant Governor in Council.
The EA announcement is the latest development in Dresden’s fight against the expansion of the former landfill just a kilometre north of town. In February the community was blindsided by York1’s proposal to build a regenerative recycling facility, construct a leachate pond system and expand an existing landfill license to accept construction waste from the Toronto region.
With the help of groups such as Environmental Defense Canada and area First Nations’ bands, Dresden C.A.R.E.D. plans to continue sounding
MUSIC
the alarm surrounding the negative impacts the York1 facility will bring to the community.
“We need to show the unfit nature of the site,” Premdas emphasized, stating the Irish Road
School property north of town isn’t suitable for the York1 plan, either geographically or geologically.
“We want to make sure water testing takes place and that species at risk are
protected,” he added. “We also need to force York1 to properly consult with affected communities, such as First Nations, which they didn’t do in the first place.”
Continued on page 8
Kickoff party with Chad Oulds
Saturday July 27th
The Heartless Saints @ 2pm Jen Knight Band @ 5pm Truckstop Super Friends @ 7pm
Country @ 1PM Double Vision @ 4PM
July 26th - July 28th
Chatham Voice file photo Dresden area residents remain opposed to a potential recycling/landfill site just a short distance north of the community. York1, the site’s owners, have been ordered by the province to pay for a comprehensive environmental assessment of the property.
Process for site could take years
Continued from page 7
Dresden C.A.R.E.D. also wants to bring Bill 197 into play. The parameters of the legislation state that municipal consent is needed if a landfill is located less than 3.5-kilometres from a community. The property boundary at the proposed York1 facility is only 700 metres from Dresden’s high school.
“Our municipality opposed this project and we hope the province understands why we do not want to live with a dump on our doorstep,” Premdas said. “Bill 197 gives us the right to say ‘no thank you.’”
Based on previous landfill challenges in Ontario,
including a decade-long fight against a landfill near Ingersoll, a full-on comprehensive EA can take anywhere from three to five years. York1 will be required to foot what will likely be a multi-million-dollar bill.
In February, the GTAbased company said some of the material would be recycled and some of it landfilled.
The application asked for permission to operate the facility 24-7, with an estimated 700 trucks coming to the site each day.
After the news broke, Dresden C.A.R.E.D. was formed to fundraise and oppose the landfill proposal. The Municipality
of Chatham-Kent also joined the fight, completing detailed responses to the province opposing the proposal.
In a municipal media release, C-K Mayor Darrin Canniff called the EA announcement “excellent news” for Dresden and all of Chatham-Kent.
“The response from the community of Dresden has been nothing short of inspiring,” he said. “They have presented a unified voice through petitions, signs, submissions and deputations for municipal council. The comprehensive environmental assessment process that is now required is a direct result of a communi- ty that has come together to speak up for what they believe in.”
Chatham Voice file photo
The site of the proposed landfill/recycling centre near Dresden.
Marco Acampora* 519-784-4348
Ashley Amato* 519-365-5677
Dane Appleton* 519-436-7195
Kelly-Anne Appleton* 519-365-7155
Austin Bentley
226-340-1163*
Sarah Callow* 509-809-5446
Megan Canniff* 226-626-7133
Stephen Carroll* 519-355-9774
Terry Chauvin* 519-437-8498.
Anna-Marie Clark* 519-354-7890
Ron Collins* 519-401-8464
Adam Deseure* 519-350-5787
Lisa Everaert* 519-330-8548 Eric Fitzgerald* 519-436-4865
Michael Gibbons* 519-365-5634
Jeff Godreau* 519-365-4852
Matthew Giffin* 647-222-3472
Darren Hart* 226-627-8580
Michelle Hetherington 519-401-2635*
Janet Ellen Mader* 226-881-0098
Krista Mall* 519-365-7462
June McDougall* 519-358-5199
Sylvia Moffat** 519-355-8189
Ghassan Najjar** 519-355-8668
Heather Najjar** 519-355-8666
Cass Opiela* 519-355-7804
Meg Palin* 226-627-2078
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Brian Peifer** 519-436-2669
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Patrick Pinsonneault** 519-360-0141
Chris Polley* 905-903-0505
Call
move-in ready. Call Kate Stenton or Katherine Rankin.
North side bi-level. 3br, 2 baths, open concept, sky light. Call Patrick Pinsonneault.
Chatham Goodfellows member Tim Haskell, left, is seen with Giant Tiger’s Mark Lush and local farmer Brad Campbell. They’ve teamed up for Sweet Corn for a Sweet Cause, a fundraiser that will seed a portion of the proceeds from the sale of sweet corn grown by Campbell and sold in the parking lot at Giant Tiger in Chatham going to help the Goodfellows. It’s all part of the organization’s 70th anniversary. Sales begin July 25. Large-scale purchases are asked to be done online at ChathamGoodfellows.ca so your order will be ready when you arrive.
Free BBQ and hunt for staff at ConAgra
opened operations on Metcalfe Avenue.
FarmGate Advisors Inc. is holding a barbecue on July 12, celebrating the contributions of ConAgra over the years to Chatham-Kent.
They’re also conducting a bit of a job search.
ConAgra staff will be on hand between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. to take job applications from local citizens seeking work.
The event takes place at 639 North St. in Dresden.
The food is free and there will be a draw.
Canning began in Dresden back in 1903, when Canadian Canners Ltd.
In 1947, operations moved to the current site on Wellington Street. From there, improvements were made over the years, and Nabisco acquired the property in a merger in the mid-1980s. That led to additional production space a few years later.
Kraft amalgamated with Nabisco in 2001 and signage changed, but the work continued.
In 2006, CanGro took over Kraft’s assets. Six years later, ConAgra purchased the Dresden facility.
Contributed image
The Chatham Voice
Info session set for July 17
Community Hub/Sears building proposal is the focus of public session
The municipality is hosting a public information session this month in regard to the Community Hub project.
The project proposes a concentration of several municipal assets and departments into the former Sears building in Chatham.
The public information session takes place between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. July 17 at the Bradley Centre on Richmond Street in Chatham.
A new community survey is also launching the same day, seeking feedback and input on the development of the proposed CK Community Hub. The survey will run until Aug. 7 and is available online only, through the municipality’s Let’s Talk platform.
The information session July 17 will be openhouse style and will offer an opportunity for community members to view the first architectural renderings of the proposed Community Hub,
see proposed floor plans, learn more about the collaboration being conducted with community stakeholders, and get information on the current progress being made on the project.
For those unable to attend the session, all information will be available online through the Chatham-Kent Community Hub Let’s Talk page. The feedback gathered from the survey will be combined with the feedback from specific community groups such as
Downsizing: Six Reasons it Might be Time
1. Too Much Space: A home that was once perfect may now feel empty. You might have rooms that are rarely used. Downsizing to a space that better fits your current needs can make your home more comfortable and practical.
2. Tied Up Equity: If you’ve paid off your mortgage, substantial equity is tied up in your home. This equity could be used for activities you’re passionate about, like traveling or investing. Downsizing allows you to unlock that hard-earned money.
3. Changing Desires: A large house was ideal for your family, but now you may crave simplicity, freedom, and more travel, while wanting less maintenance. A smaller home can provide the lifestyle you now seek.
4. Changing Health: As mobility decreases, navigating large homes with multiple floors can be challenging. Downsizing to a single-story home with no stairs and less yard work can enhance your quality of life.
5. Changing Situations: Retirement, becoming an empty nester, or the loss of a partner can change your space needs. Downsizing can provide a fresh start in a home that better suits your current situation.
6. Reduce Expenses: A smaller home means lower utility bills, property taxes, and maintenance costs. Downsizing frees up financial resources, allowing you to spend money on activities that bring you joy, like travel or hobbies.
Whether you’re looking to save money, adapt to health changes, or embrace a simpler lifestyle, downsizing can lead to more freedom and joy. If downsizing is in your future, reach out to the Appleton Team. We will guide you through the entire process using our Six Step Downsizing Roadmap to make your downsizing journey stress-free.
the library board, the museum committee, and the accessibility committee to help inform the design and features of the proposed Community Hub.
Up-to-date information on the project can be found here: www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca/ community-hub.
The Hub would see mu-
nicipal operations from the Civic Centre, the Chatham branch of the C-K Public Library, and the C-K Museum come together in one location.
Granny
The Chatham Voice
Cherryfest to pump up the volume
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
Blenheim’s trademark weekend is fast approaching, putting a cherry on top of the summer.
Cherryfest and Sidewalk Days hit the South Kent community July 1820, fun and entertainment right into the downtown core.
Michael Russelo, one of the event organizers, said there are improvements to be featured for this year’s event. One is the use of the Mainstreet Credit Union portable stage
from the municipality.
“The use of that stage opens up a whole thing for lights and sound,” he said. “We have a full sound system coming in to support it.”
The stage will be in “Cherry Central” on George Street right by the library. Russelo said there will be bleachers set up, but he suggests people bring lawn chairs .
“We have a lot of good lineups who will perform,” he said. They include The Chasers, Chad Oulds and The Heartless Saints, who all perform Friday evening.
Public Notice of Pesticide Use
Notice is hereby given that the Municipality of Chatham-Kent intends to utilize Green Stream Lawn & Vegetation Management Inc. for the purpose of controlling noxious weeds along all municipal rural roadsides.
This pesticide use falls under the other legislative requirements exception to the Cosmetic Pesticide Ban to control noxious weeds under the Weed Control Act.
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 spray period is expected to take place between June 10 and July 31, 2024, for spot treatment. Application will be weather permitting and confined to weed-infested 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 (collect-calls accepted), 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: 1-888-553-5588 or sford@green-stream.ca
Trevor Caron: Veg-Tek Agri Inc. P: 519-809-4812 or trevorc@vegtek.com
Also on the new stage will be Cherry-oke Thursday night, where the public can take part in a karaoke contest.
“If you always wanted to be a rock star, you’re going to get a feeling on what it’s like to be up on stage with big sound and big lights,” Russelo said.
World’s Finest Shows returns to run the midway, Russelo said. All-day passes will be $25, a price that re-
mains unchanged for years.
“We’re trying to keep the costs as low as we can,” he said.
No Cherryfest would be complete without the famous pit spitting and the also-popular spectator event, the pie-eating contest. Russelo said they will take place on George Street, with the pie-consumption challenge being featured on the main stage.
The pie eating takes
place at 11 a.m. July 20, while the spitting follows at 1 p.m. New this year is a pie-baking contest. In an event that once featured legendary tasty cherry pies baked by church groups, there will now be a contest to feature individual baking prowess. Buskers Kobbler Jay and Bella Magic will be on hand performing throughout the day on Friday.
Helping with past parking concerns, Russelo said organizers have arranged for a shuttle bus to run from the Sobey’s Parking lot into downtown Blenheim and back. It will run every 30 minutes and is free.
Russelo said he thinks the combination of the sales by downtown stores, food, midway rides and the atmosphere keep people coming back to Cherryfest year after year.
“It’s one of the last downtown home-style festivals. It’s where you shut the streets down and just do your thing,” he said.
Chatham Voice file photo
Buddies Georgia Bellamy, left, and Adelyn Wheeler hug the prizes they won in a fishing game at Cherryfest and Sidewalk Days in Blenheim during festivities last year. The popular festival turns 41 this year and runs from July 18-20.
Talbot Trail plan open for review
The Chatham Voice
Citizens have until Aug. 2 to review the latest information on the proposed shifting of part of Talbot Trail in West Kent.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has finished its Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
(EA) Addendum Study to develop an interim realignment plan for the route between Coatsworth Road and Stevenson Road.
The EA Addendum Study, according to municipal officials, considered “all reasonable alternatives” using an
on select suites!
Infrastructure Protection Design Criteria for a minimum 30-year hazard zone to allow the municipality to reopen the impacted section of Talbot Trail in the interim while maintaining environmental clearance for the previously approved longterm protection plan.
The addendum report is available on www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca until Aug. 2
At a late-February meeting, council approved the Technically Preferred Alternative (TPA) as outlined within the Talbot Trail EA Addendum Study. The TPA includes
the implementation of a new/realigned right-ofway and two-lane arterial roadway to the northwest of its current position between Coatsworth Road and 3089 Talbot Trail. This will remove Talbot Trail out of the 30-year hazard zone of shoreline erosion and allow for the reopen-
ing of the roadway.
After the public review period ends Aug. 2, municipal officials will go ahead with land acquisition, detailed design and supporting studies.
Tendering and construction of the recommended improvements are planned for 2025.
Storey re-elected to national group
Chatham Coun. Alysson Storey has been picked to serve a second term on
the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ (FCM) board of directors for 2024-2025.
The election took place
in Calgary last month at the organization’s annual general meeting.
A nation-wide organization, FCM’s mandate is to
advocate for communities across Canada, with a focus on a new municipal growth framework while pressing the federal
government to properly fund critical infrastructure needs. Members join together in a unified voice representing local gov-
SENIORS LIVING
ernments as they work towards improving municipal issues for all.
Storey said she enjoyed her first term on the FCM.
The Chatham Voice
Blenheim Cherryfest
Thursday, July 18
9am Amazing Shopping All Day
10am-10pm World’s Finest Show Rides
($25 ticket ride all day)
9am-7pm Vendor Market and Food Trucks
12pm-1pm Andrew & Cole (West Stage)
2pm-3pm Andrew & Cole (West Stage)
4pm-5pm Taylor’s Dance Academy
5pm-6pm Steppin’ Out Line Dancers
6pm-7pm Blenheim Dance Collective
7:30-10:30pm CherryOke featuring South Paw (Main Stage)
Friday, July 19
9am Amazing Shopping All Day
10am-10pm World’s Finest Show Rides
($25 ticket ride all day)
9am-7pm Vendor Market and Food Trucks
12-1pm Andrew & Cole (West Stage)
12-2pm Cherry Pit Spit Registration at Cherry Central
12-2pm Cherry Pit Spit Try Outs behind Cherry Central - Pit Spit Court
12-7pm Busker Shows: Kobbler Jay and Bella Magic (West Stage) 3 shows - 30-45min each
2:30-4pm BREN (Sing-A-Long Hit Songs)
5-6:30pm Chad Oulds (Local Performer)
7-8:30pm Heartless Saints (Blues Band) 9-10:45pm The Chasers (Country)
$25 ticket ride all day
& Sidewalk Days
Saturday, July 20
8:30am Pie Drop Off
- at Cherry Central Stage
9am-5pm Amazing Shopping All Day
10am-6pm World’s Finest Show Rides ($25 ticket ride all day)
9am-5pm Vendor Market and Food Trucks
9am-11am Pie Baking Contest
FIRST EVER - at Cherry Central Stage)
11am-1pm Pie Eating Contest at Cherry Central Stage
1pm - 2:30pm
CHERRY PIT SPIT CONTEST
(Pie Spit Court)
9-11am Quattro Blue (West Stage)
11am-1pm Kevin Brown (West Stage)
2-4pm Grupo Diamante (West Stage)
9am-5pm Barry O Kids Show 3 shows - 25-35min each
Events & times are tentative and subject to change. Questions or comments? Email us at blenheimcherryfest@gmail.com
Kiwanis offer scholarship
The Chatham Voice
The Kiwanis Club of Chatham-Kent presented a scholarship to a graduating student from Ursuline College Chatham.
The $1000 Kiwanis Foundation of Canada Matching Scholarship went to Leela McLaughlin, a resident of Chatham-Kent.
The club’s scholarship committee selected her for one of its two scholarships because of her academic accomplishments
as well as her volunteerism and participation in her school and community.
At UCC, she was involved in Kidwin Zhiingwaak (an Indigenous leadership group), UCC Cares and the drama club, among other activities.
McLaughlin made blankets for the homeless, served as a figure skating program assistant and provided leadership for the Little Flowers group at her church.
Contributed image
Marlena Goncalves, left, president of the Kiwanis Club of Chatham-Kent, and Mary Alice Marchand, right, chair of the club’s scholarship committee, present Ursuline College Chatham grad Leela McLaughlin with a $1,000 Kiwanis Foundation of Canada Matching Scholarship recently.
Artists flocking to Chatham
The Chatham Voice
A big splash of colour is coming to Chatham-Kent.
That’s thanks to CK Can Jam ‘24 – a unique festival that will see 13 artists from across the globe – descend on downtown Chatham to use their skills to create a host of bright murals in the city’s core.
Running from July 15 to 20th, artists will use a wide variety of paint mediums, but aerosol paint cans will be the main tools, leading to the name Can Jam. And the public is invited to come watch.
According to a media release from the fledgling initiative, the idea was sparked by event organizer Sarah Tucker-Steele, who took part in a similar event in Windsor. It prompted the Dresden-based artist to found the local Can Jam fest.
“It was amazing to work with so many great artists that have had their work featured in countries like Spain, China, Venezuela, Cuba and across the globe,” Tucker-Steele said in a media release. “The event brought us together as artists. The collaborative effort and opportunity to learn and share different techniques was priceless.”
Organizers say everyone is welcome to come and watch the artists in action as they use vertical walls up to 60 feet high as a canvas. Some of the artists will be working in pairs.
Volunteers are needed for the event and there are also opportunities for local residents or businesses to spon-
sor a mural.
Impact Graphics owner Rob Shepanowski is one of the sponsors and he’s stoked about the project.
“We’re excited to be part of this; these murals are huge and will be visible for years,” Shepanowski said, calling a mural a “great return on investment.”
He compared the murals to billboards, noting the cost of a mural is equivalent to renting a billboard for one to two months at a cost of up to $2,000.
Tucker-Steele said that after the paint dries and artists head to their gig, downtown Chatham will be left with a “beautiful gift.
“We are thankful to the groups, individual residents and businesses who believe in CK Can Jam as much as we do,” she said. “We still have a bit more to go in regards to finding sponsors, as every little bit helps.”
A CK Can Jam wrap-up party will be held at Sons of Kent Brewery from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. that will provide an opportunity for the public to meet the artists and there will be a live interactive art expe-
rience for the public to experience as well.
Information on the various artists and locations can be found online at ckcanjam.ca.
Contributed image
Can Jam artist Sarah Robbins will be on hand for this year’s CK Can Jam.
News
Bridges ‘Powered by TekSavvy’
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
It’s official.
For the next decade, Chatham’s downtown bridges will be formally known as being “Powered by TekSavvy.”
As a result, the terminology is the Third Street Bridge Powered by TekSavvy and the Fifth Street Bridge Powered by TekSavvy.
Announced last week at a ribbon cutting at the foot of the Third Street Bridge, the bridge naming-rights are part of the local tech giant’s ongoing commitment to its home-
town community.
TekSavvy chief operating officer Pierre Aube took to the podium, emphasizing support for the initiative, noting it’s the first time the company has sponsored a bridge.
“These bridges are more than mere structures spanning water,” Aube told the crowd. “They are symbols of connectivity and opportunity. They signify our collective commitment to enhance mobility, foster economic growth and strengthen the bonds that unite us a community.
“At TekSavvy, we believe in the power of connectivity to transform lives and
empower community,”
Aube explained. “Our mission goes beyond reliable Internet communications. It extends to supporting the communities we live in and work.”
Aube pointed out the bridge naming “underscores our commitment to Chatham-Kent. May they stand as an enduring symbol of progress and prosperity for generations to come.”
From 2023 to 2033, the Chatham-based company will contribute $1 million to the municipality’s coffers for the naming rights. The money will be dispersed according to Chatham-Kent council’s discretion.
To date, council has designated a total of $120,000 of the money to be funneled into local arts,
culture and recreation projects, with $40,000 committed annually to public art from 2023-25.
Chatham’s downtown
bridges have both undergone significant upgrades in the last few years.
Continued on page 21
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff, left, and TekSavvy COO Pierre Aube finalize a public-private partnership that will see Chatham’s two downtown bridges as being “Powered by TekSavvy.”
Community Events
Thursday, July 11, 2024:
• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In. 330-630pm. Come spend some time in a 2SLGBTQIA+ safe space 48 Centre St., Chatham. Hang out, have a coffee, do your homework, ask a question, read a book, or chat about life or what we’ve been working on. Get some clothes from our Out of the Closet program, use the Community cupboard & more! No RSVP needed! Come & go as you please. All ages & allies welcome.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre sat 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
• Join us for a fun filled afternoon Jam Session at Merlin Legion. Bring your instruments/singing voices 1-4:30pm. All are welcome to attend with a $2 donation. 4-7pm: homemade panzerotti + menu available. 519-689-4884.
Friday, July 12, 2024:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Supper served 4:00-6:00pm. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are chicken parmesan and potatoes or fish & chips, $13.00. Take out available by calling 519-3518733 or 519-351-5639. On the Patio, you will be entertained by Back-to-Back 7pm to 10pm. Everyone is welcome.
• Chatham Moose Lodge Friday night supper, 850 Richmond St is a Chicken Alfredo dinner with pasta, caesar salad and a bun. Dine ins $13, pickups $14. All meals served at 6pm. Call 519-3528291 to order. Everyone welcome.
Saturday, July 13, 2024:
• Morning Breakfast Program at First Presbyterian Church (corner of Fifth St. and Wellington). A delicious and nutritious breakfast served free of charge from 9:30am-11:00am, serving indoors, no take out. Wheelchair accessible.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 3:00pm-5:30pm. Entertainment by the Corner Stone Band from 4:30-9:30. Come check out our menu. Everyone is welcome.
• Join us for our delicious Merlickin Chicken plus menu serving 4:30 to 8 pm (No entertainment). Merlin Legion Br. 465 Call 519-689-4884 for details.
Sunday, July 14, 2024:
• Calling all Veterans - The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham will be hosting a Buddy Check for all Veterans from 10:00am-12:00pm. Come enjoy a coffee and talk to other Veterans. This venue is for Veterans only.
• Jen Knight and her band will be on stage at Two Creeks at 6pm. She is a singer with unbelievable range, reminiscent of Janis Joplin, Pink and Adele. Food and drink from the Scouts. 1km north of Wheatley. No admission but we do pass the hat. Lots of parking. twocreeks.ca
Monday, July 15, 2024:
• Eben Ezer Canadian Reformed Church is excited to host a free Kids Klub for all kids ages 5 to 12 from July 15 to 19. Kids Klub runs from 6:15pm to 8:15pm with an optional free dinner for participating kids at 5.30pm. Details and registration are here: https://chatham-ebenezer. com/kidsklub.
• St.Clair Estates Social Club Euchre 1 pm. 9 Dunkirk Street, Chatham.
• Come and play the ancient Chinese game of Mahjong at the Chatham Branch’s Mahjong Club from 3:00pm4:45pm in the Chatham Branch Meeting Room. All playing levels welcome. Join us for some tiled fun!
Tuesday, July 16, 2024:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Come play Euchre at 1:00 or spend the evening playing Shuffleboard or Euchre starting at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
Wednesday, July 17, 2024:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Our daily special is Meat loaf Dinner. Come check out our other daily specials. Everyone is welcome.
• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In. 330-630pm. Come spend some time in a 2SLGBTQIA+ safe space 48 Centre St., Chatham. Hang out, have a coffee, do your homework, ask a question, read a book, or chat about life or what we’ve been working on. Get some clothes from our Out of the Closet program, use the Community cupboard & more! No RSVP needed! Come & go as you please. All ages & allies welcome.
• Games Night at Bill’s Place, 48 Centre Street with CK Pride at 630pm . You are welcome to bring a game to see if others want to play it or play what we have. Light refreshments / snacks potluck.
Thursday, July 18, 2024:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre at 1:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
• Join us for a fun filled afternoon Jam Session at the Merlin Legion. Bring your instruments or singing voices from 1-4:30pm. All are welcome to attend with a $2 donation. 4-7pm: homemade panzerotti + menu available. 519-6894884 -
• The Chatham-Kent Quilters’ Guild meeting at at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave W, Chatham. Doors open at 6:00. Meeting starts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome to join us, the fee for non-members is $10/ meeting. Enjoy our presentations, guest speakers and all of the other fun at our meeting. Membership fee $50/year and 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.
Are you affected by someone else’s drinking? Al-anon can help! Call – leave message – 519-350-3462
Alcoholics Anonymous, we can help! Information Line 519-360-5246.
Send your events to bruce@chathamvoice.com or michelle@chathamvoice.com
Fun Stuff
CLUES DOWN 1. About visual sense
2. Part of a horse’s saddle 3. In a way, interchanged 4. Rocker’s accessory 5. Very important person 6. It precedes two 7. Flavored 8. Musical notes 9. String instrument (slang) 10. Mister 11. Fine, light linen fabric
12. Absence of bacteria
CLUES ACROSS
1. Book size
8. Indonesian Island
13. “The Sopranos” character 14. Plants often found in stews
15. Stern 19. Atomic #52 20. Often seen after a company name 21. Silk garments 22. Inhibiting hormone (abbr.)
23. Type of beer 24. Margarine 25. Throw lightly 26. Explains again 30. Raccoon-like animal
31. Sneaker parts 32. Platforms 33. Scored perfectly
34. One’s essence
35. Strikes with a firm blow
38. Makes tractors
39. Music term
40. Lack of energy
44. Vestments
45. __ and feathers
46. Total
47. Gobbler
48. One with Japanese immigrant parents
49. Type of braking system (abbr.)
50. Home of Rudy Flyer
51. Manageable
55. Lugged
57. Irritated
58. Sea eagles
59. Warm seasons
16. Discounts
17. Area units
18. A description of one’s life
22. Gazelles
25. Plumbing fixture
27. Makes especially happy
28. One side of something many-sided
29. Frosts
30. Defunct monetary unit of Guinea
32. Female animal species
34. School terms
35. Written law
36. Unpleasant aroma
37. Nuclear weapon
38. One who challenges
40. Opposite of first
41. Able to be utilized
42. Less interesting
43. Implants
45. Canister
48. Gestures
51. After B
52. Romanian monetary unit
53. Long-term memory
54. Cash machine
56. The Volunteer State Puzzle answers found on page 23
By Kristen Da Silva
50th class reunion approaches
By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative
The
Ridgetown Independent
Ridgetown District High School’s Class of 1974 is in the home stretch for its 50th anniversary.
Bill Carnie, one of the five committee members of the ’74 gradua-
tion class, expects about 60 students and spouses, along with 10 teachers, five with spouses, to return to town for the twoday reunion on July 12-13.
The celebration begins on Friday night with a meet-and-greet at Yeck’s Station 11 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
“The idea is for people coming from out of town to get settled in and a chance for everyone to get together and reconnect before the big day Saturday,” Carnie said of Friday’s get-together.
Saturday’s celebration will be held at Scott McKinlay’s farm, 12297
Talbot Rd., Morpeth, from 2 p.m. to midnight.
The cost is $20 per person for a pork barbecue, which includes pork, stuffing, coleslaw, beans and garlic bread.
Guests are asked to bring a lawn chair, drinks (including mix), and an optional donation of dessert
or extra salad. There is plenty of room for tents and trailers for those planning to spend the night.
Carnie said plans for the 50th anniversary reunion began last year when a committee was formed to plan the event and begin the search for fellow
graduates. McKinlay volunteered his farm for the pig roast.
“There were 37 of us in Grade 13 who graduated in 1974, but there were a lot of others who were in our grade from 9 to 12 who didn’t go to 13, and we didn’t want to leave them out,” he said.
Officials laud public-private effort
Continued from page 21
The work has brought safety and a fresh look to the downtown. LED lighting adorns the Third Street Bridge, allowing the municipality to commemorate various milestones, campaigns and groups by changing colours.
C-K Mayor Darrin Canniff had effusive praise for TekSavvy’s pledge.
“TekSavvy has been an absolutely amazing corporate citizen,” Canniff said. “We see it here today. They’re everywhere in our community. You’d be hard pressed to find an
event in this community that TekSavvy is not part of.”
Canniff said the partnership “sets the tone” for future public-private partnerships – initiatives that he said will allow Chatham-Kent to grow and flourish.
“I believe we live in one of the best communities in Canada and this is one of the reasons,” he said, adding he’s thrilled TekSavvy continues to maintain its head office in Chatham-Kent.
Going forward, Canniff said the community can
look forward to some “cool signage,” marking the naming rights.
The mayor advised the
Stay in the loop and receive daily news right to your inbox
public to “stay tuned” for other private sponsorships that will enhance C-K.
3 Offices Available for Rent: all utilities included, central air. Nice & clean. Ready to move in. 991 Richmond St, Franklin Square. 519-360-5438.
24’ 5th wheel frame, 2 axles. $1000. Call 519-397-2337.
Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-727-8894.
Scrap air conditioners, dehumidifiers. Phone 226-2292614.
Steel trailer, tandem wheels, box 5 1/2’ x 8’, tires and trailer in excellent condition. Also, Pro lift lawnmower jack, 8’ aluminum step ladder and 16’ aluminum extension ladder. In Chatham 519-7847004.
6’ x 7’ Ski-doo trailer new lights & wiring, tilt bed. $500. Phone 226337-1923.
Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Ready-togo. Many colours available. $40. 519-354-3411
Wanted
519-3525414 or 226-6275414.
Carriers Wanted
Routes available in the following areas: 1 - Semenyn / Louelle / Sussex / Couture 2 - Donalda / Tasan / Vanier
Email michelle@chathamvoice.com today! or call 519-397-2020, ext.223
location throughout Chatham-Kent
Chatham: Anne’s Smoke Shop, Downtown Chatham Centre, Legion Branch 628, Maple City Bakery, Loads of Love, Active Lifestyle Centre, Wimpys, Royal LePage, Pharmasave, Schinkels, Lenovers, Betty Brite, Real Canadian Superstore, Hasty Market, Library
Wallaceburg: Shoppers Drug Mart, 99.1CKXS, Taylor’s Variety, Black Goose, No Frills, Hometown Deli, Library
Dresden: MacTavish Pharmacy, Godfathers, Dresden Meat Packers, Library
Thamesville: Fast & Fresh, Movie Den, Studio 519, Library
Blenheim: McIntyre I.D.A. Pharmacy, Jim’s Barber Shop, Blenheim Seniors Centre, Blenheim Variety, Blenheim Municipal Service Centre, Library
Erieau: Eau Buoy, Bayside Brew Pub Pain Court: Pain Court Market, Central Tavern
Mitchell’s Bay: Mitchell’s Bay Variety, Dover Duds Merlin: Merlin General Store, Library
Tilbury: Ashley’s Place, Library, Rosie’s, Foodland, Tim Hortons, Charing Cross: Post Office/Bert’s Plumbing
Wheatley: Circle K Store, Jack’s Restaurant, Library
Bothwell: Library Highgate: Library Ridgetown: Library
Do you live in Chatham and are not receiving your paper?
Give us a call 519.397.2020
Stay in the loop and receive daily news updates right to your inbox Visit chathamvoice. com/subscribe
Broil King gas BBQ, excellent condition. Phone 519-627-4913.
