Fire ruled as arson; woman charged
By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Ron Barkwell is glad he hasn’t had a drink.
As one of the residents displaced by the Aug. 25 fire at 99
WIN TICKETS
A F TER DUSK
McNaughton Ave. W. in Chatham, the 73 year old said the incident has triggered his life-long PTSD, but he’s managing.
“Moving from an isolated area to places you don’t know, that’s hard,” he added. “I haven’t had a drink, so that’s a good thing.”
Barkwell, who has lived at 99 McNaughton for 11 years, is currently being sheltered at the Wallaceburg Inn. Transportation is being provided by RideCK.
A total of 126 residents in the 120-unit social housing complex were evacuated following the early morning blaze and will remain elsewhere in the short term.
As of Friday afternoon,
municipal officials said they were continuing to assess the damage.
A 30-year-old Chatham woman has been arrested and charged with arson – disregard for human life.
From the preliminary findings of the multiple ongoing investigations, the building has been given an Order to Remedy Unsafe Building, meaning there cannot be occupancy until it is made safe through remediation and repair.
It appears it will take months of work before any residents are allowed back into the building, but officials stressed the timeline is unknown due to the various investigations that are still ongoing.
Residents are currently being housed in hotels throughout Chatham-Kent, but that will
change, as officials said this is not a sustainable long-term solution.
Housing Services and Economic Development Services have been working with private landlords to secure longer-term solutions throughout the community as they become available.
The Canadian Red Cross has been contracted to establish an emergency shelter at the former St. Agnes School property, which the municipality recently purchased from Indwell. The sale had not gone through as of yet, but municipal officials said the non-profit organization agreed to allow the municipality to use in the event that short-term hotels are no longer available. They will also work to facilitate food delivery to those displaced.
Continued on page 4
Contributed image
An overhead view of the apartment building at 99 McNaughton Ave. W. in Chatham shows the severe damage the building suffered. All residents were displaced by the fire. One person is charged with arson in connection with the Aug. 25 blaze.
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
An Office of the Fire Marshal truck sits outside 99 McNaughton Ave. W. in Chatham. A Chatham woman faces arson charges.
Lions Club, others work to help fire victims
Continued from page 3
Lions members heard people from 99 McNaughton Ave. W. had evacuated the building and some had not had the chance to grab so much as the charger for their cell phone. The Lions went out and bought 100 chargers to give to the residents.
Since that time, Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue has co-ordinated efforts so that some residents were able to visit their units to retrieve personal belongings and medication.
Fire broke out before dawn on Aug. 25. By the time it was extinguished, 90 of the 120 units at
the building had been impacted in some manner.
A Chatham woman is facing arson charges in connection with the blaze.
All residents were evacuated and as of press time had not been allowed to return. The fire marshal was still investigating and engineering teams were checking structural stability.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is co-ordinating the effort as the affected building at 99 McNaughton Ave. W. is a municipally owned rent gearedto-income facility.
Three temporary drop-off loca-
tions to accept donations to help those impacted by a weekend fire in Chatham have been set up.
The drop-off sites include Betty Brite Dry Cleaners and Laundromat at 108 Keil Dr. S. in Chatham, Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and the Skyline buildings at 150 Mary St. and 805 Grand Ave. W. in Chatham, between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. seven days a week. Donation bins will be placed inside the front door at both locations.
But the local Lions are also seeking to raise $20,000 in mon-
etary aid. Hyatt said the group has applied for a $10,000 International Lions grant, and hopes to see $10,000 in local donations.
“People have been donating physical items,” Hyatt said, pointing out the drop-off locations at Betty Brite and two local apartment buildings. “We’re asking that for monetary donations, they go through the Lions.”
Hyatt said the plan is to sit down with municipal staff to determine what each person needs and go from there.
“It could be pillows, clothing or medicine,” she said of where the
funds could be utilized. “We’ll make sure it gets into the hands of the people who need it. It’s for what they need right now to hang in there.”
E-Transfers can be made straight to chathamlionsclub11@ gmail.com and Hyatt asks if people who donate could include contact information to allow the Lions to reach out and say thank you. For people who would prefer to make the donation at the Lions Club’s bank, the Bank of Montreal at the corner of Lacroix Street and Park Avenue, Hyatt said they need to obtain banking information from the Lions first. To do so, call 519-354-1836 or email info@chathamlions.ca.
“I’m hoping in two weeks we can wrap it up and get these people what they need,” Hyatt said.
FreeHelpCK has been busy gathering donations from various places as well.
Pet and Wildlife (PAWR) at 405 Park Ave. E. in Chatham is also seeking donations of dog food, cat food and kitty litter for pets that have been temporarily rehomed.
Continued from page 2
Barkwell said he thought he’d be back home after a couple of days but because the electricity to the housing complex is shut off, no one was allowed inside the municipally owned housing complex.
However, he said he’s grateful for the help from the community, the municipality and various agencies.
“The Red Cross, the Salvation Army, housing services and emergency services have all been great,” Barkwell said. “They’ve taken good care of us.”
Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue has co-ordinated efforts so that some residents were able to visit their units to retrieve personal belongings and medication.
The fire has sparked a wave of support from the community, with numerous businesses opening their doors for donations. As well, Chatham Retirement Resort partnered with the municipality to accommodate at least 10 displaced seniors.
Drug poisonings on the rise in C-K
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
With the number of toxic drug deaths in Chatham-Kent on pace to set a record in 2024, the work continues to save lives from the twin scourges of drug overdose and poisonings.
day. These are deaths that the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health said are preventable.
“It’s really hard for people to prepare and be safe in the unregulated supply.”
- Nurse Jordynne Lindsay
That was the message outlined by volunteers and staff marking International Overdose Awareness Day at R.O.C.K Missions’ Chatham and Wallaceburg sites Aug. 29. Many sported T-shirts from the Chatham-Kent Drug Awareness Council, emblazoned with the words “Together we can” and “I love someone who uses drugs.”
According to CK Public Health nurse Jordynne Lindsay, there have been 29 toxic drug-poisoning deaths so far this year, already toping 2023’s total of 28 drug-related deaths.
In C-K, officials said the majority of toxic drug deaths stem from an unregulated supply of drugs such as the synthetic opioid fentanyl, that’s been cut with sedatives like benzodiazepines, making it difficult for people to protect themselves.
“It’s really hard for people to prepare and be safe in the unregulated supply,” Lindsay said. There’s a distinction between drug overdose and poisoning, she added, as overdose implies someone took too much of a drug intentionally, while a poisoning is accidental.
“We believe everyone deserves the care and the time it takes to reach out because someone who dies cannot recover.”
- Nurse Jordynne Lindsay
In Ontario, it’s estimated that eight people die from toxic drug poisoning every
reduction in a “person-centred” approach making peer support critical in the fight to save lives.
“We believe everyone deserves the care and the time it takes to reach out because someone who dies cannot recover,” the nurse explained, adding a message of care must be conveyed to users.
“We love you; we care about you. You matter and we want you to be around tomorrow,” Lindsay said. “We’ll help you when you’re ready.”
“Just listen to what they have to say,” he advised. “It makes a big difference.”
- Volunteer Marcus VanDusen
Carrying that message to drug users is one of R.O.C.K.’s goals. Currently, the agency has 15 peer support workers, including Marcus VanDusen.
VanDusen, who has been doing the work for the past four years, said he had “lost himself” until he found R.O.C.K. Missions which given him a “sense of purpose.
“I wouldn’t change a thing,” he added.
“The contaminants are causing the poisoning deaths, Lindsay explained, stressing the importance of the opioid reversing drug naloxone and harm
When dealing with people addicted to substances, VanDusen said the simple things matter.
“Just listen to what they have to say,” he advised. “It makes a big difference.”
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Marcus VanDusen, Jordynne Lindsay and Haleigh Hill of R.O.C.K. Missions helped mark International Overdose Awareness Day Aug. 29 in Chatham.
Opinion
The good, the bad but no ugly
August 25 gave us the bad: Someone set a fire that displaced everyone in a Chatham apartment building at a time when housing is in dire shortage.
What followed was the good: The massive outpouring of support from the community that is rallying around the residents of 99 McNaughton Ave. W.
fire, when the investigation led to the arson determination and an arrest, Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue personnel began working to get some people back into the building to grab what they could.
That’s Chatham-Kent in a nutshell. We have some bad, or troubled eggs, but they sure as heck don’t spoil the entire carton.
Response to the people who were left without a home in the wake of the fire at the 120-unit building was immediate. The Chatham Lions jumped into action right away and are fundraising at this time to provide additional support.
Two other apartments, owned by Skyline, are taking donations on behalf of the misplaced residents, as is Betty Brite on Keil Drive. FreeHelpCK are living up to their name, offering assistance and collecting items to deliver to those in need. The residents left with only what they could carry. Five days after the
Of the 120 units, 90 suffered damage. There has been severe fire damage to the mechanical room, as well as some parts of the building, while other sections have been damaged to a lesser extent by water and smoke. It’s a mess, uninhabitable. Even the unaffected units remain vacant, as there is no power to the building.
But citizens, and the municipality, stepped up. Temporary housing was quickly found, and a stopgap shelter is being established in the former St. Agnes school.
It’s not a perfect solution, but not much could be in the wake of such a tragedy. We at The Voice are glad that no one was killed in the blaze and encourage everyone who can to please donate in some way. Clothing, toiletries, non-perishable food … whatever you can will help.
We are confident the people will be taken care of. It’s what we do.
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Good to see cops on the beat once again
Editor: In regard to an article in the Aug. 15 Chatham Voice, “The beat goes on,” it’s nice to finally see or read the police are going to walk the beat. It’s been long overdue.
But I read that on Fridays and Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. seems like the only times cops will walk the beat. Does that seem like the only days or times that crime or trouble may occur?
In editorials, The Voice has said there has been some funny goings on in downtown Chatham
contents
Editor: Even though the tree cutting on Victoria Avenue has now begun, maybe it’s not too late for this town to take a look at the town of Orangeville, Ont. and see the tree sculptures on their main street. When they had to cut down trees, they left the trunks standing if possible and had chain-
over many months. I might point out it has been much longer.
You say the blame is put on the homeless. I agree that is not always true, but they have been responsible for a big percentage.
set up, why are they still being allowed to camp under the Third Street Bridge? The garbage they are making there is something else.
Now the homeless are camped in Rotary Park on Thames Street. Authorities have supplied tents, and a Port-a-Potty (which is a good thing).
However, I hear people living near there can smell it.
With that space being
saw and wood artists come and produce some interesting sculptures. Decorative and weatherproofed, they have looked good for a long time.
I hope never to see one of those tents on the Veterans’ Garden. It is more or less sacred. Plus, a group of volunteers look after it and spend many hours on it each year. It’s beautiful, and I hope it stays that way.
Ruth Draper Chatham
If the Victoria Avenue trunks are left standing to a height of say over six feet, possibly more if
in good condition, chainsaw artists could be invited to come and produce something interesting to look at rather than empty spaces. Just a thought!
Janet Mills Chatham
Poor turnout at ward boundary talks
Editor: I was incredibly disappointed at the dismal turnout at the Chatham-Kent ward boundary meeting on Aug. 22 at the Bradley Convention Centre. Right now, the issue is with a consulting firm to collect citizen feedback and make recommendations.
It quickly became apparent to me just how messed up our ward structure is, and the meeting helped me to understand why our council is so ineffective. Of the comparable municipalities in our population range, most councils have either nine, 11 or 13 seats. Our council has 18
seats, including the mayor. If you have ever participated on a team or worked on a team project before, you quickly realize that more team members are not necessarily a good thing for decision making. Another thing I realized was that since amalgamation (1998) our council structure favours Wallaceburg and most of the rural wards. Ward structure is not equally based on population. Based on population, Chatham (Ward 6) and North Kent (Ward 4) are under-represented. In comparison, the other four wards are over-represented. Why is this a problem?
Seek tax savings
Editor: Being no stranger to politics, I must comment on the way the tax budget is being handled.
Chatham-Kent doesn’t need double-digit tax increases; we need good, solid projects, not luxuries. You were voted in to take care of the people who live and work here. Life is hard enough for the young and the elderly. Is our city progressing as the mayor says? It seems there is no new industry
at the present time. Years ago, there were 1,200 municipal employees. How many today? Administration does not run council. Council should try telling our administration to have all departments find 10 per cent in cuts in each of their budgets! Finally, do the right thing and show us a council that cares about the people they represent.
Barbara O’Rourke Brady Chatham-Kent
Protect rural housing
Editor: The expansion of Enbridge’s gas supply to Chatham-Kent both builds greenhouses and houses?
Bunkhouses, maybe. Understand that greenhouse complexes are more factory than farm. They threaten existing rural housing. Who wants to live beside a factory?
Families cannot resist selling their land to the incredibly financed greenhouse industry.
Homes along the densely housed Talbot Trail are most at risk of encroachment. Council must protect them. Christie Coatsworth Chatham-Kent
Some councillors are fantastic and represent all constituents, including those outside their wards. While other councillors only care about issues within their ward. This is what makes things
incredibly unfair and difficult when you have a problem in your neighbourhood and there are some councillors who won’t help or listen. I hope council will be fair and listen to the con-
stituents’ feedback and the consultant’s recommendations. However, I think the decision should go to the provincial level instead. It doesn’t make much sense to me that councillors should be
voting on their own fate. There is plenty of information and a survey on the municipal website’s Let’s Talk section.
Sheila Martin Chatham
Activity inside former Park St. Place
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
There’s a revamp underway at the former Park Street Place seniors’ res-
idence in Dresden, but it’s unclear what the future holds for the vacant building.
A reporter from The Voice attended the facility Aug. 21, and observed
painting and cleaning going on near the lobby, as well as a COGECO service truck in the parking lot. But after questioning a woman working inside about what’s going on,
the answer was a terse “no comment.”
Rumours have swirled on social media recently that Park Street Place is to be turned into a homeless shelter or a drug rehabilitation centre but that’s not what both of North Kent’s councillors say.
Rhonda Jubenville said she’s learned from administration the building does not have the proper zoning to operate as a shelter, but current zoning allows it to be used as a seniors’ residence once again without needing any approvals from the municipality.
“There’s nothing we can do to stop that,” Jubenville said, noting she heard a lot of the equipment utilized by Park Street Place has
been thrown away.
“Maybe it will be a good thing because there is a need for these types of services for seniors.”
North Kent Coun. Jamie McGrail said she too has been informed that the building can’t be used as shelter, noting the municipality doesn’t have to be kept in the loop unless there’s a zoning change.
McGrail hopes that whatever service comes to the Park Street property it “won’t fall through the cracks.
“If it is a seniors’ home, it will be provincially mandated,” the councillor pointed out. “The municipality has been trying to find out what operation is going in there to ensure it is a legitimate company. It’s definitely on our radar.”
Park Street Place became embroiled in controversy last year, when the Retirement Home Regulatory Authority revoked its licence to operate a seniors’ residence. This came on the heels of a host of complaints regarding negligence of care of residents.
Ongoing problems at the site came to head Sept. 25, 2023 when no staff were available to care for residents or dispense critical medications.
According to previously published reports, a resident was injured when they fell from a wheelchair but did not receive any follow-up care. No charges have been laid against the former owner of Park Street Place despite the fact RHRA regulators attended the facility earlier last September and issued a warning letter.
Seniors’ home operators who break the rules can face a $50,000 fine for a first offence and much larger fines for subsequent infractions.
After the license was revoked, the building was sold for $1.2 million to 1000728019 Ontario Inc. of Oakville. According to a provincial website registry, the Ontario company was incorporated Dec. 4, 2023. As of press time, The Voice has been unable to find out who the new owners are.
Doug Robbins to lead Black Mecca Museum
and the preservation of the society’s archival collections.
The Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society and Black Mecca Museum has a new executive director.
Doug Robbins, who will also act as curator, has been named to the post left vacant by Samantha Meredith’s departure.
As the former director of marketing for the African Heritage Network, Robbins brings a wealth of experience to the role, as well as a deep commitment to preserving the rich history of Black history in Chatham-Kent.
Robbins will lead various initiatives, including the curation and management of museum exhibits, guided tours, community events
“I am honoured to step into this role and work alongside the community to preserve the powerful stories of resilience, culture and history,” Robbins said in a media release.
Dorothy Wallace, president of the C-K Black Historical Society and Black Mecca Museum, said the organization is pleased with Robbins’ appointment.
“We are thrilled to welcome Doug as our new executive director-curator,” said Wallace. “His proven leadership, dedication to community engagement and expertise in historical preservation make him the perfect fit for this role.”
The Chatham Voice
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Jim Blake/The Chatham Voice
Local hound a hit at the track
By Jim Blake jim@chathamvoice.com
While millions of Canadians spent two weeks this summer following every move of our Olympic athletes, one four-legged competitor from Chatham ran his own race and became a champion.
Buddy, a five-and-a-halfyear-old purebred Basset Hound became the fastest of his kind in Ontario, winning the annual Fort Erie Basset Hound Races.
Owned by David Paulovics and his wife Deanna, Buddy bested a field of more than 30 dogs in the event held at the Fort Erie Race Track following its horse racing card.
This is the third year Buddy has competed in the race, finishing third and fourth in his previous efforts. Dave got the idea of entering Buddy after seeing the races on YouTube.
speed, the dogs were bred to chase rabbits and squirrels. Their average height is 14 inches.
“Buddy’s a little bit longer than most Basset Hounds and he’s about 58 pounds,” Dave said.
The Fort Erie track boasts crowds of several thousand people and most stay for the dog races.
“Just about everybody seems to stay,” he said. “The crowd really gets into it, cheering for the dogs.”
As for how Buddy’s “pit crew” handled the race, Dave said it was simple.
“Deanna holds him at the start of the race and I wait at the finish line. I whistle to get his attention and then I whistle more once the race starts,” he said.
“It’s a nice day out and Deanna and I thought, why not,” Dave said. He said younger dogs usually win the races but Buddy showed he’s not “past his prime” by completing the 25-metre race in about four seconds.
“As a pup, Buddy always liked to run and go for long walks with us,” Dave said. “Taking walks is the extent of his training.”
Although their appearance doesn’t suggest
of his time lying on the couch sleeping or eating,” he laughed.
Buddy does take time away from the couch to visit nursing homes, the hospital and the Chatham-Kent Hospice.
After Buddy won his heat, he raced in the Basset Hound finals where he finished first again. The final race of the day was for the winners of the Basset Hound, Corgi, and Dachshund breeds who competed separately.
The Corgi won but Buddy finished a close third.
“He’s forty pounds heavier than the other dogs and I was surprised he had the strength left. I had whistled so much at the end of the race that I didn’t have anything left,” Dave said.
“He’s a big ham; he loves the attention,” Dave said.
“When he shows up at the nursing home, it’s always, ‘Hey Buddy’s here.’ Everyone is glad to see him.”
Buddy isn’t very vocal unless he catches the scent of a rabbit or squirrel. “If he’s in the yard and he picks up a scent, he lets me know,” Dave said.
When he’s not racing, Buddy is a typical Basset Hound, Dave said.
“He spends 95 per cent
Dave said Buddy will likely race again next year.
“He loves meeting the other dogs. Basset Hounds are very social and there is never any problem with them getting together.”
Until then, Buddy will continue his “celebrity” life, going for walks and getting treats from the drive-through window of local restaurants.
“He just likes to hang out with people,” Dave said. “I couldn’t ask for a nicer dog.”
Deanna Paulovics/Special to The Chatham Voice Buddy relaxes on the couch with his award and some of the products he won as the fastest Basset Hound in Ontario after his win on Aug. 18 at the Fort Erie Race Track.
2024 Annual
Tree Service
McKINLAY WOODLANDS . . . A LIVING MEMORIAL
Sunday, September 8, 2024
Gathering 1:30pm Service 2:00pm
DEDICATION SERVICE to be held at C.M. Wilson Conservation Area
Due to the paper cutoff time, the names published are for the period September 1, 2023 to August 29, 2024. The program and tree service will include any additional names up to August 31, 2024. We will also be recognizing tree donations for the Big Bend and Sharon Creek tree parks. Please see next week’s paper for the Ridgetown T.R.E.E.S. Memorial Forest name list.
CM Wilson/Skakel Alexander, Brenda Allen, George Anderson, Jenny Arndt-Jamieson, Margaret ‘Peggy’ Balakowski, Carmen Balan, George Barnes, Roger Bathurst, Kelly Beaton, Ken Beaulieu, Connie Bechard, Gerard Bechard, Jeannette Bellefleur, Ron Benoit, Ben Bernardi, Stelio Joseph Bertasson, Rick Beuglet, John Blais, Philippe Bower, Dwight Boyd, Elizabeth Braddon, Donald Bradley, Amanda Bradley, David Allen Braekevelt, Betty Ann Broad, Ed Broersma, Aly Bromley, Bob Brouwer, Teny Brown, Barry Brown, Christopher Lee Brown, Dennis John Brown, Sherry Ann Brown, Stephen James Browne, Chris Burch, Bruce Burch, Eileen Bushey, Jean Cain, Chris Carey, Amanda Carey, Pam Carter, Richard Cartier, Jacques Casier, Leonard Chaput, Margaret Charlton, Kay Cianfarani, Ernie Clarke, Ken Cléroux, Gisèlle Coll, Earl ‘Sandy’ Conliffe, Ruth Cordeiro, Jennifer Wendy Cranston Cornell, Anne Cowan, Pat Cox, Ruth Anne Cunningham, Doug Cunningham, John Dale, Dillon
Darby, Doug Dawdry, Fred Day, Charlotte Day, Mary Jane Day, Pat DeLuca, Tonio Deneau, Leonard ‘Len’ Denkers-Dow, Sophia Desbiens, Viola Donaldson, Katrine ‘Mary’ Doughty, Joan Margaret Dubuque, Lenard Dunkley, Sheila Ellen Dymerski, Roland Brent Edwards, Lucas ‘Lukey’ Ellis, Dorothy Ellison Spence, Violet English, Isabel ‘Liz’ Ertel, Karla Eveland, Sharren Everitt, Bradley Eves, Andrea Fanelli, Angela Farmer, Margaret Ferreira, Jose Tome De Abreu Fox, Lee Fraser, Shirley Gagnon, Norman Ambrose Garrod, Barbara Gellner, Marilyn
Gervais, Luella Gleason, Orville Ross ‘Bud’ Gobert, Sherry Gough, Mary Green, David Griffore, Gerald Grin, Jeannine Grocott, Fred Hall, Harry Allen Hall, Tom Hanov, Jewelya Harris, Willena ‘Miss. Nina’ Harrison, Jean Haskell, Barbara Hearn, Mary Heino, Faye Heino, Michael Heslinga, Rev. Fred Heuvelmans, Scott Hildebrand, Talon Hill, Gordon ‘Gord’ Holland, Grace Horton, Pat Horton, RoseMarie Humphrey, Fred Hynes, Joe Hystek, Lenny Illman, Margaret H. Jacques, Doug Jenkins, Ernie
Jenkins, Francis James ‘Jim’ Johnston, Murray Jordon, John Joyce, Alfred AJ
Jubenville, Leonard Kaloyanis, Sophie Karsai, Brian Kellier, Deb Kent, Ron Kent, Twyla Kerulcin, Joe Kielstra, Trijntje ‘Tena’ Klinard, Alfred Kovats, Lucifer
Kozlof, Julia Krisza, Betty Kuhn, Linda Laity, Norman LaMarsh, Leonard ‘Len’ Lamb, Bill Langan, Patrick Langham, Roy Laprise, Florent Laschuk, Betty Lavery, Gary Lawton, Rheta
LeClair, Beverley
LeClair, Wayne
Lefebvre, Laurie
Legary, Nick
Levitt, Clarita Lobbestael, Irma Lowther, Jill Lozon, Sandra Lumsden, Brenda Lyons, Karen Malina, Mildred Mariconda, Diane Markovich, Sara Markowiak, Janet Martin, Clara Martin, Gerry Mazan, Michal Mc Guigan, Shirley McCann, David McCollum, Oliver McCorkell, Katherine McDowell, Nancy McGill, Charlene McGuigan, Mona McIntyre, Allan McLagan, John Meyerink, Sharon Milne, Fran
Mitchinson, Jack Rule Moon, Mike
Morgan, Mary Ann Morrisey, Paul Morrison, Bonnie Nauta, Gene
New, Gordon Newsham, Douglas Nguyen, Hoa Nicholson, Bob Nikitiuk, John Micheal Sr. Norton, Bill & Fae Oickle, Harris Osborne, Caroline Ouellette, Donna Ouellette, Jill Padovan, Janet Pardo, Ann Parsons, Douglas Phillips, Kathy Pinard, Victoria Pinsonneault, Eva Pinsonneault, Rosaire Plank, Doreen Prentice, E. Marie Price, Doug Primeau, Danielle (Lucier) Provenza, Janet Provost, Paul Rankin, Steve
Reaume, Edward Ries, Orval
Robertson, Shirley Roby, James Roth, Frieda Rountree, John
Rouse, June Row, Alan Fraser Roy, Raymond Russchen, Nellie Ryan, Lillian Sales, Linda Shaw, Heather Sinden, Joan Skidmore, Gary Slatford, Linda Sloan, Marisa Smith, Kathleen Southiere, Daniel St. John, Ely St. Pierre, Elvin Steckley, Linda Stefaniga, Ioan Stefina, Nela Annie Stewart, Ilene Stewart, Keith Stewart, Robert Stirling, Lillian ‘Eunice’ Stoffyn, Marilyn Stokes, Douglas Millard Stokes, Kevin Summerfield, Ernie Taylor, Jeff Taylor, Joanne Thatcher, Joan Thompson, Wesley T.
Trachy, Eric Travis, Wayne Troyer, Barbara Trudell, Jean van der Vlist, Hennie Van Haren, Betty Van Kessel, Mary Van Loon-Palmateer, Renata VandenEnden, Al Vandernaalt, Fred Vanderveen, Gerard ‘Jerry’ Verburg, Thea Verhoog, Joanne Vienneau, Marc Vink, Diana Volkes, Michael Waddick, Maurice Walker, Susan Elizabeth Watson, Dennis Weir, Catherine Armour White, Mary Jean Wiebenga, John Williams, Kay Williams, Michael Wilson, Wilfred ‘Wilkie’ Wojcik, Richard Wolfe, Adam Woodcock, Pat Wright, Garth Wrobel, Manny Yott, Rosemary Young, Audrey Zahorodney, Dennis Zimmer, Florence ‘Elaine’ Big Bend Huszka, Paul Jr. Sharon Creek
Gladwish, James & Margaret Heino, Faye Heino, Michael Wahl, Judith
Conservation and cultivation on display
The Chatham Voice
Local residents who want to see the fruits of local conservation efforts are invited to attend the fourth annual Cultivating Conservation Tour Sept. 11. Hosted by the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority, the tour offers participants a first-hand look at a variety of projects, including wetlands, tree planting,
tallgrass prairie, erosion control, exclusive fencing and cover crops.
According to a recent media release, the featured sites help demonstrate best practices, emphasizing how initiatives
dedicated to the improving the health of soil and water contribute to sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship.
A complimentary dinner courtesy of the Ministry
RUN BUSINESS FOR OVER 75 YEARS!
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of Agriculture Food and Agribusiness will take place at Red Barn Brewing Co. at 6 p.m. following the self-guided tour, which runs from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The event also marks the fifth anniversary of the ALUS (Alternative Land Use Services) Chatham-Kent.
For more information, contact donna.small@ltvca, or call 519-354-7310 ext. 231.
Brickworks fills a need on housing ladder
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Filling the gap in the housing continuum.
That’s the goal of Brickworks, a made-in-Chatham-Kent initiative aimed at giving low-to-moderate income earners a chance to own their own home.
Five years in the making, the project is the brainchild of the non-profit Opportunity Villages Community Land Trust (OVCLT).
The intent is to allow renters, who would never otherwise have the opportunity, to take ownership of high quality, eco-friendly small homes.
bedrooms and range in size from 600 to 950 square feet.
Four of the units will be accessible.
According to project manager Rose Linseman, the Brickworks is akin to a “missing rung” on the housing ladder in between renting and owning a home, as there are no affordable choices in gap.
“We are looking to create a pilot project with the Brickworks project, that starts to add rungs back onto the ladder from rental to homeownership, a ladder that is missing so many rungs that it’s currently impossible to climb.”
- OVCLT’s Rose Linseman
At a recent public information meeting, OVCLT volunteers outlined how Brickworks will operate. The land trust will offer buyers a “life lease,” along with a purchase price below market value. The trust will maintain overall care of the property.
Located on 2.6 acres of land on Taylor Avenue in Chatham, the development includes 30 units, including detached homes, duplexes and triplexes, as well as a shared community building. The majority of the homes are two
News
The Brickworks is a pilot project that will offer
ly small home. The 30-unit development is
information session, project manager Rose
initiative.
“We are looking to create a pilot project with the Brickworks project, that starts to add rungs back onto the ladder from rental to homeownership, a ladder that is missing so many rungs that it’s currently impossible to climb,” Linseman said.
Another plus, she added, is a sense of community the development will foster.
Tiffany Lilliman, a local property manager specializing in social housing, said the OVCLT has come up with a creative affordable-housing solution with the Brickworks.
“I know there’s a lot of people who don’t think it’s possible, but I 100 per cent believe it’s possible,” Lilliman said. “I know a lot of hard work has gone into this.”
Lilliman said the development will appeal to single parents, retirees, people looking to downsize, as well as modest earners trying to enter the market. Next steps for the Brickworks, said Linseman, include the finalization of the site plan and contractor approvals, to be followed by site preparation and remediation.
If all goes well, work could begin this fall. After the site is ready, construction of the homes is expected to take 18 months.
In 2019, Brickworks started out with a budget of around $8.5 million, but Linseman said the number has yet to be finalized. The organization has received various grants and donations, including $200,000 from the Chatham-Kent, and is working with an unnamed financial institution to help get things off the ground.
Part of the difficulty in launching the project, Linseman said, is that most upper tier government grants and funding programs are geared towards supporting rental
housing, rather than those offering home ownership. The OVCLT is currently operating with a team of 12 volunteers and is actively seeking fresh faces to join in all capacities. The agency plans on holding a financial session for the public in the near future so interested parties can learn how to set themselves up to qualify for one of the Brickworks homes. New partners, investors and donors are also welcome to join the effort.
Currently, there are 1,200 names on the list for affordable housing in C-K, with a wait time of five to six years.
Pam Wri/The Chatham Voice
low to modest income earners the chance to purchase an affordable eco-friend-
being led by the Opportunity Villages Community Land Trust. At a recent public
Linseman and board member Maureen Geddes answered questions about the
Support for YMCA camps
image
John Rossi of Chuck’s Roadhouse in Chatham and employee Donna Page, centre left, present a cheque to Art Stirling, far right, YMCA development officer, in the amount of $7,000, raised during Chuck’s first golf tournament held at Hidden Hills Golf and Country Club recently. They are surrounded by members of the organizing committee: Harold Ytsma, Stuart McFadden, Wendy Castle, Jenn Beckstead and Jeff Young. Absent was Shawn Newman. The funds are in support of YMCA of Chatham-Kent camp and youth programs.
Runway run
The Chatham Voice
The first-ever Jordan’s Run the Runway event is coming to the Chatham-Kent Municipal Airport Friday Sept. 13. Aimed at raising money to help families and individuals access services at the YMCA, organizers said the event promises to be a fun-filled time for those who attend.
According to a YMCA media release, the 5K run on the airport tarmac is “flat and fast” and registered with Athletics Ontario. Participants are invited to run, walk, or roll on the runway for the five kilometres.
Prior to the 5K event, youngsters can take part in a one-kilometre “kiddie trot.”
Food and drinks will be served in the airport hangar at the run’s conclusion.
Jordan’s Run the Runway has been held successfully in London for the past 11 years. However, this year organizers decided to expand to Chatham-Kent and Sarnia-Lambton.
To date, Run the Runway has raised more than $1 million to create the Jordan Strickland Family Fund for the YMCA’s Camp Elizabeth.
The London Jordan’s Run the Runway event will take place Sept. 20, with the Sarnia-Lambton initiative to be held Oct. 4. Registration is now open.
Learn more at runtherunway.ca.
Contributed
Decorate your home and win cash
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
Crowfest Chatham-Kent organizers are developing a decorative idea that they hope will give the municipality yet another event to crow about: a Citywide Residential Decorating Contest.
Prizes for the top three homes, as determined by a set of mystery judges, and the people’s choice winner, will be selected.
Plus, they’ll win cash.
First prize is $500. Second prize and the people’s choice selection earn $250 each, while third prize pockets $150.
The outdoor contest is the brainchild of Jan Reinhardus and Connie Beneteau. The idea is to expand Crowfest, which takes place from Sept. 1821 this year, outside the downtown core.
“It’s something that families can enjoy,” Reinhardus said. “We’re just try-
ing to get more families involved. They do come down and see the buskers, however.”
World-famous buskers will perform during Crowfest once again. There will also be an Olde Crows Tea on Sept. 18, C-K’s Got Talent the same day, the MasCROWade Ball on Sept. 19, a Crowfest Costume Contest, and Busk After Dusk on Sept. 21. Artists will be creating works at various shops in the downtown area during Crowfest as well.
But the decorating contest is the kick-start for the festival. Benetau said people have between now and Sept. 13 to register to take part.
After that point, judges will review the outdoor entries. Reinhardus said the public is encouraged to view them as well, and vote on the people’s choice option.
The winners will be announced Sept. 18.
Support for girls’ boxing
female empowerment.
Get ready for Pizza That Packs a Punch.
That’s the name of a campaign by twins Kat and Karissa Strain to raise awareness and funds for their Soul Strong program. The twins led the first four-week program in May. Participants learned boxing basics and at the end received a bag, gloves, a jump rope, water bottle and hand wraps so they could continue training if they wished.
Created for local girls aged 13 to 16, the goal of Soul Strong is to encourage confidence, self-esteem, body positivity and
However, the organizers would love to see set-up work as it happens.
“We’re asking people to send us their preparations up to and including the finished product to be shared on social media,”
Beneteau said.
As for what the decorations could entail, the organizing duo said it can be spooky, creepy, fall-harvest oriented, you name it.
“We’re asking for an el-
ement of crow,” Reinhardus said.
Beneteau said several people have already signed up.
To register or to ask questions, email crowfestresidentialcontest@gmail.
com. You can also register at crowfestck.com under “Events.”
The contest is only open to Chatham residents this year, but the hope is that interest will spark it to expand in future years.
According to Kat Strain, the program was well received, with many girls on the waitlist to take part in future sessions.
To that end, the Strains are reprising a role they had as teenagers. During the time when they were acting as doubles for Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Mike and Mark Demore, the owners of Little Caesars Pizza in Chatham, allowed the girls to host a “Free Ice Cream Friday.” Local girls would come into the shop, meet the Strains and discuss their experience.
Kat and Karissa will do it again Sept. 6.
The Chatham Voice
SALE OF LAND BY PUBLIC TENDER
The MUNICIPALITY OF CHATHAM-KENT
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 September 25, 2024, at the Municipality of Chatham-Kent Civic Centre, located at 315 King Street West, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8.
The tenders will then be opened in public on the same day as soon as possible beginning at 3:15 p.m. at the Council Chambers of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, located at 315 King Street West, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8.
Tune into our Municipal Facebook page or the Chatham-Kent YouTube channel for a virtual event where the tenders will be opened live beginning as soon as possible at 3:15pm.
Description of Land(s)
All lands are in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, the following are the geographic descriptions and municipal addresses.
1. ROLL #3650-010-001-70300 - LTS 32 & 33, PL 617; ROMNEY. Being 1270 Bluff Line, Romney. P.I.N. 00847-0112 (LT) According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $22,500. and ROLL #3650-010-001-70400 - LTS 32 & 33, PL 617; ROMNEY. Being 1276 Bluff Line, Romney. P.I.N. 00847-0112 (LT) According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $22,500. Planning Services has reviewed the properties and advised that due to erosion hazard, no development is permitted on these parcels and no parking of recreational vehicles is permitted. $14,627.78
2. ROLL #3650-020-001-13000 - LT 56, PL 570; S/T 118588 WHEATLEY. Being 45 Hillcrest Dr., Wheatley. P.I.N. 00841-0151 (LT) According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $185,000.00.
REDEEMED
3. ROLL #3650-190-001-21300 - PT LT 7, PLAN 462 & PT LT 7A, PLAN 464 AS IN 492230 S/T EASEMENT AS IN 380752 OVER PT. 13, 24R2939 IN FAVOUR OF THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF CHATHAM-KENT; CHATHAM-KENT ‘DESCRIPTION AMENDED 2001/10/31 BY JANE SEIFRIED TO ADD S/T 380752’. Being 943 Mariner’s Rd., Erieau. P.I.N. 00938-0895 (LT)
According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $328,000.00.
REDEEMED
4. ROLL # 3650-260-005-05005 - PT LT 57 CON NORTH TALBOT ROAD ORFORD; PT RDAL BTN LT 56 AND LT 57 CON NORTH TALBOT ROAD ORFORD CLOSED BY OR17454, PT 1, 24R6551, T/W 596616; CHATHAM KENT. Being 15473 Talbot Trail., Muirkirk. P.I.N. 00671-0044 (LT)
$18,136.83
$33,109.25
According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $175,000.00. $18,123.55
5. ROLL # 3650-320-002-01477 - PT LT 12 CON 9 ZONE AS IN ZO5575B, S OF OAK ST; CHATHAM-KENT. Being Oak St., Bothwell.P.I.N. 00643-0097 (LT)
According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $36,000.00.
6. Roll # 3650-442-004-05300 – LT 55 PL 119; CHATHAM-KENT.
Being 35 Hiram St., Wallaceburg. P.I.N. 00576-0041 (LT)
According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $13,900.00.
7. Roll # 3650-443-003-17910 - PRIVATE LANE PLAN 367 ADJACENT TO LOTS 9, 10, 11, 12 WALLACEBURG; MUNICIPALITY CHATHAM-KENT.
Being Duke St., Wallaceburg.P.I.N. 00566-0181 (LT)
According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $400.00.
8. Roll # 3650-480-002-17300 - PT LT 5 PL 428 AS IN 661564; CHATHAM-KENT.
Being 24224 Winterline Rd., Pain Court P.I.N. 00784-0137 (LT)
According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $45,000.00.
$8,287.06
$37,604.96
$5,732.42
$9,999.99
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. Purchasers must retain a lawyer to complete the purchase of any property for which their tender is accepted.
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.
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 Treasurer
Address of Municipality or Board
315 King Street West, P O Box 640, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8
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.
Name of Municipality or Board
Municipality of Chatham-Kent
www.chatham-kent.ca
Business
Veal’s the deal at Mamma Maria’s
The Chatham Voice
Mamma Maria’s Ristorante in Chatham has another feather in its cap. Well, more fans of one of their signature sandwiches actually.
The downtown Chatham eatery finished in the top 10 in this year’s Ontario’s Best Veal Sandwich competition.
The judging panel for the competition was in Chatham recently to taste the vaunted sandwich, which received thumbs up all around.
The top two restaurants will be announced sometime this month, after which they will compete in a head-to-head cook-off for rights of being named creator of Ontario’s Best Veal Sandwich 2022.
The competition has taken place since 2016.
Provincial officials tour Dajcor Aluminum
Dajcor Aluminum in Chatham hosted the provincial government’s top money man recently.
Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy and Chatham-Kent–Leamington MPP Trevor Jones toured Dajcor Aug. 15.
“Ontario’s manufacturing sector is a significant driver of the provincial economy, giving good-paying jobs to hundreds of thousands of workers while building worldclass products – and Dajcor Aluminum is no
exception,” Bethlenfalvy said in a media release.
“Our government was elected on a plan to rebuild our province’s economy. That’s why we’re helping local manufacturing companies invest and expand so that we can ensure the products of the future get made right here in Ontario.”
Cindy Marks, president of Dajcor, said the visit was appreciated.
“Dajcor Aluminum is a manufacturing centre of excellence which supports the local economy with over 250 jobs.
The future growth of the manufacturing industry throughout the Southwestern Ontario corridor relies heavily on the prov-
ince’s support and it is an honour for our organization to be recognized by the Minister of Finance,” she said.
Discussions also touched on the alignment of public and private sectors in driving Ontario’s economy.
“The Minister of Finance’s budget is focused on building Ontario, and at Dajcor, we believe in this vision of the public sector partnering with and supporting private industry to not only compete on the global scale but to be best in class,”
Jamie Neil, Dajcor’s chief financial officer, said.
Following the visit, Jones praised Dajcor’s efforts and contributions.
“Dajcor Aluminum’s dedication to innovation and quality is propelling our economy for-
Contributed image
Ontario’s Best Veal Sandwich judges hit down recently to sample Mamma Maria’s Ristorante’s offering. From left, Cara Ferguson, Jennifer Haley, Food Network celebrity John Catucci and Bill Harron are seen here at the restaurant. The panel has selected the local restaurant to place in its top 10 list for the year.
ward. We remain committed to providing the support these businesses need to thrive and continue generating valuable jobs for our community,” he said.
Dajcor Aluminum is Canada’s leading supplier of extruded, fabricated, machined, and anodized aluminum components and assemblies for a diverse range of markets, including automotive, renewable energy, medical equipment, transportation, building trades, military, recreation, and consumer products.
Continued on page 21
Mitchell’s Bay Elevated Water Tower Unveiling
A 3.3-million-dollar rehabilitation of Mitchell’s Bay elevated water tower will be completed soon. A news conference to announce the completion will be held Friday, September 13, at 10:30 a.m. with the unveiling of the new tower logo.
The project was undertaken in January of this year and involved the complete removal and replacement of the interior and exterior coatings of the tank as well as a number of other improvements.
The tank was originally constructed in 1996 and is a major component of the Chatham water supply and distribution system operated by the Chatham-Kent Public Utilities Commission. The elevated tank provides water storage for the communities and areas around Mitchell’s Bay and Dover.
The project also included installation of a hydro-dynamic mixing system inside the tank to improve water age and chlorine residuals. Installation of accessory upgrades including new antenna supports, upgrades to the lighting system, minor upgrades to the process mechanical equipment within the base of the structure and the installation of additional health and safety features were added.
Chatham-Kent Public Utilities Commission General Manager, Darren Galbraith said, this is the sixth tank that has been rehabilitated in the last 12 years.
The work was completed by Landmark Municipal Services. Engineering and inspection services for the project were provided by CIMA Engineering.
The improvements will increase the reliability of the tank, as well as its functionality for the next 20 years or more.
Darren Galbraith, General Manager
Chatham-Kent Public U8li8es Commission 325 Grand Avenue East, Chatham, ON N7M 2G6
Community Events
Thursday, September 5, 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 starts at 1:00pm. L.A. in-house BINGO starts at 7:00pm food is available for purchase. Everyone is welcome.
Friday, September 6, 2024:
• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In.. 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.
• Enjoy a friendly game of Pepper, 1pm. St. Clair Estates, 15 Dunkirk Chatham. $3.00 per person. Everyone Welcome.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00–6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are Cabbage Rolls or Fish & Chips, $13.00. Take out available, call 519-351-8733 or 519-3515639. Come and play Fun Darts start at 7:00 *Patio Entertainment-Chuck Fitzgerald 7-10pm. Everyone welcome.
• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St is a Breaded Pork Chop dinner with potatoes, vegetable, salad and a bun. Dine ins $13 and pickups $14. All meals are served at 6 PM. Everyone welcome. Call 519-352-8291 to reserve or to order.
Saturday, September 7, 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 & 5:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 3:00pm–5:30pm. Entertainment by Back-to-Back- Band from 4:30-9:30. Come check out our menu. Everyone is welcome.
Sunday, September 8, 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.
• Dawn Valley United Church 135th Anniversary at 4:00pm. 507 Dawn Valley Road (corner of Lambton Line & Dawn Valley Road). Featuring “The Singing Cowgirl”, Naomi Bristow – Traditional Country, Western & Gospel Music. Light supper to follow. Free Will offering. Everyone welcome.
• Breakfast at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St. from 9am to Noon. All meals are cooked to order. Everyone welcome
Monday, September 9, 2024:
• Enjoy a friendly game of Euchre, 1pm. St. Clair Estates, 15 Dunkirk Chatham. $3.00 per person. Everyone Welcome.
Tuesday, September 10, 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 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
Wednesday, September 11, 2024:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Our daily special is meat loaf dinner. Come check out our other daily specials. Come and play Fun Darts, starting at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
Thursday, September 12, 2024:
• Retired Workers Chapter Meeting are the perfect opportunity to enjoy coffee, baked goods and visit with friends and former fellow workers. Keep up to date with the community, pensions, benefits and info provided from informed leadership and guest speakers. Spouses are welcome. 10:00am at the Unifor Local 127, 405 Riverview Dr., Chatham.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for
lunch from 11:00am–1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
Friday, September 6, 2024:
• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In. 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.
• Enjoy a friendly game of Pepper, 1pm. St. Clair Estates, 15 Dunkirk Chatham. $3.00 per person. Everyone Welcome.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Supper served 4:0 –6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are Cabbage Rolls or Fish & Chips, $13.00. Take out available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-3515639. Come and play Fun Darts start at 7:00 *Patio Entertainment-Chuck Fitzgerald 7-10pm. Everyone welcome.
• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St is a Breaded Pork Chop dinner with potatoes, vegetable, salad and a bun. Dine ins $13 and pickups $14. All meals are served at 6 PM. Everyone welcome. Call 519-352-8291 to reserve or to order.
The CIBC Run for the Cure is back in Chatham-Kent on October 6, and we’re looking for volunteers to help on the day of the event. Visit www.volunteercancer.ca to view the available roles in the Chatham-Kent CIBC Run for the Cure and to register as a volunteer.
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.
Submit your coming events to bruce@ chathamvoice.com or michelle@chathamvoice.com
Fun Stuff
51. Delivery boys CLUES DOWN 1. Continent 2. Submissive 3. There’s a lot in a bowling alley 4. Sun up in New York 5. Court decision __ v. Wade
Finish line
Young women 8. Hives of activity
9. Hyman Roth’s right-hand man Johnny
10. Eastern U.S. river
CLUES ACROSS
1. Current unit
7. Reciprocal of an ohm
10. God of the sea
12. A way to disfigure
13. Positioned
14. Tall tropical American tree
15. Large deciduous trees
16. __ and ends 17. Part of a machine 18. Brews 19. One who leads prayers in a mosque
21. Indian state 22. Partisans 27. Top lawyer in the land
28. Former Dodgers MVP
33. Title for women
34. Heated and allowed to slowly cool
36. Copycat
37. Sounds
38. One-time Israeli diplomat Abba
39. Part of (abbr.)
40. Hateful
41. Collide
44. European football heavyweight
45. One who works for you
48. Song
49. Ancient marvels
50. Bridge building degree
11. Popular cooking ingredient
12. Greek mythological princess 14. Scent for men
17. Cost, insurance and freight (abbr.)
18. Once more 20. Irate
23. Triangular spaces above a door
24. Norwegian playwright and poet Henrik
25. Atomic #58
26. Patti Hearst’s captors
29. Natural logarithm
30. Talk incessantly
31. Went by
32. Strives
35. Fall back
36. Manila hemp
38. Not easily explained
40. Former “Double Dare” host Summers
41. Mollusk
42. Capital of Togo
43. Letter of Semitic scripts
44. Founder of Babism
45. Indicates near 46. Family of regulator genes
47. Indicates before
New leadership at CFDCCK
Continued from page 19
There’s a new boss in place at the Community Futures Develoment Corporation of Chatham-Kent (CFDCCK).
David Argenti replaces Donna Pollock as executive director. Pollock retired after five years heading the corporation.
Jack McFarlane, board chair of CFDCCK, said the appointment of Argenti follows a thorough local and national search.
Argenti joins CFDCCK from the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) where he has been a Branch Manager for the last nine years. He has built a career in the Chatham-Kent region in the financial services sector over the past 20 years, holding numerous positions from life insurance, to financial planning, to being an investment representative and a small business advisor.
Pollock will remain on board until the end of October to help with the transition.
“The board of directors
is thrilled to see Donna move on to a new chapter of her life, and at the same time, we are incredibly grateful for her significant contribution over the last five years,” McFarlane said in a media release.
Essex & Kent hands out scholarships
Five area students have received $1,000 scholarships this year from Kent & Essex Mutual Insurance.
Included in those five are two Chatham-Kent teens.
Chatham’s Ava Grenier, who attended CKSS, and Wheatley’s Alexa Derikx, a Leamington high school student, are the two local beneficiaries.
Students were asked to submit essays on the topic of the expected future impact of Artificial Intelligence on the insurance industry in Canada, and how it is currently being used.
“I am truly honoured to receive this recognition and am grateful for the support and encouragement it represents,” Gre-
nier said in a media release. Your generosity and recognition will remain a driving force as I pursue a career in police foundations at St. Clair College.”
Derikx said she appreciated being selected.
“This scholarship truly means a lot and it will significantly help pay for my post-secondary education,” she said.
Kent & Essex has been awarding scholarships to graduating high school
seniors for more than 12 years, amounting to more than $60,000.
Grand opening
Tiles, Planks and Rolls is gearing up for the grand opening of its new loca-
tion.
The store is located on 785 St. Clair St. in Chatham. It had previously been located on Grand Avenue.
The grand opening is slated for the Sept. 13-15 weekend.
OPEN HOUSE
Shirley Diane Phair
68, Thursday, August 22, 2024
Badder Funeral Homes Ltd.
Shawn Daniel Hooyer
38, Thursday, August 22, 2024
Badder Funeral Homes Ltd.
Lorraine Theresa Dreveny
83, Tuesday, August 27, 2024
Badder Funeral Homes Ltd.
Peter Allan Robinson
77, Tuesday, August 27, 2024
Badder Funeral Homes Ltd.
Kathy D. Phillips
66, Thursday, August 22, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Dorothy Lozon
77, Friday, August 23, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Sheila Dunkley
78, Wednesday, August 21, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Sharon Barbara Marie St. Pierre
78, Sunday, August 25, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Dinie Postma
73, Monday, August 26, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Glenda Marie Anderson
82, Monday, August 26, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Visit us: badderfuneralhome.com
Badder Funeral Home & Reception Centre
Dresden - 519-683-4444
Badder & Robinson Funeral Home
Bothwell - 519-695-2716
OBITUARIES Classifieds
Donna McEachren (Rutherford)
85, Tuesday, August 20, 2024 Life Transitions
John Ellis
Wednesday, August 21, 2024 Life Transitions
Donald Crawford
83, Thursday, August 22, 2024 Life Transitions
George W. Anderson
72, Saturday, August 24, 2024 Life Transitions
Brian Bardoel
66, Saturday, August 24, 2024 Life Transitions
Michael Pilon
71, Saturday, August 24, 2024 Life Transitions
Sandra Angelini (Hicks)
82, Monday, August 26, 2024 Life Transitions
Joseph Tanguay
68, Monday, August 26, 2024 Life Transitions
Geraldine Bracken (Brennan)
94, Monday, August 26, 2024 Life Transitions
Norman Lowrie
76, Tuesday, August 27, 2024 Life Transitions
Tracy Lachine (Solarik)
Tuesday, August 27, 2024 Life Transitions
Barbara “Barb” Chatterton
84, Sunday, August 18, 2024
Nicholls Funeral Home
Joyce Philp
65, Monday, August 26, 2024 Life Transitions
Tim Swain
69, Saturday, August 24, 2024
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
James Warnock
71, Friday, August 9, 2024
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Harry Sluys
86, Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Kendrick Funeral Home
Pedro Fehr
77, Monday, August 26, 2024
Kendrick Funeral Home
Marcus Coates
46, Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Loretta Reaume
100, Thursday, August 22, 2024
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Mary Elizabeth Capek
90, Friday, August 23, 2024
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Mary Ann Dudley
92, Monday, August 26, 2024
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Debbie Anne Brooks
69, Sunday, August 25, 2024
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Obituaries
Michelle Suzanne Myers Haynes (7/5/1960-8/16/2024) was a kind and beautiful soul, who left an impact on everyone she met. Michelle was born in Chatham Ontario Canada in 1960 to Carol and Peter Myers. Michelle attended elementary school in Chatham. In 1973, Michelle’s family relocated to Ponce Inlet, Florida. She attended Spruce Creek High school, where she was crowned Miss Spruce Creek. Health and wellness was always a priority to Michelle, so after high school she opened some health clubs in various cities across the United States. Michelle also loved dancing and she became an instructor at Arthur Murray’s Dance Studio. Michelle was also a Hawaiian Tropic model and was a crowned Miss Hawaiian Tropic. She even had her own morning aerobics television show with the YMCA. Michelle obtained her esthetician’s license and practiced skin care for many years. Michelle met her husband, Dr. Michael Haynes in 2002 and they married in 2006. The two of them were inseparable and were true soulmates. She loved being outdoors and staying active. Fitness and nutrition was a passion of hers and she enjoyed teaching aerobics classes around Daytona Beach and providing others with healthy nutritional information. Michelle is survived by her beloved Husband, Dr. Michael Haynes, his son Colton Haynes; who she raised, his daughter Kaley Westervelt, mother Carol Myers, sisters: Debbie Griffith and Pamela Baliker, nieces: Amy Jo Campbell, Amanda Lauricella, Amelia Heyink and Shantel Finn.
Brooks, Debbie It is with profound sadness that the family of Debbie Anne Brooks announce her peaceful passing on Sunday afternoon, August. 25, 2024, at age 69 years, after a very long and courageous cancer journey. Her journey included two stem cell transplants and a clinical trial at Princess Margaret Hospital and countless travel to London and Toronto. Much loved and best friend of husband George, and together they were able to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary last October, with family and friends. Daughter of the late George and Margaret Shields and late mother in law, Donna Brooks. She will be missed forever by her sons Kevin (Melissa) and Stephen (Meme) and grandchildren Madelyn and Kaiden. Forever missed by siblings Cathy (late Steve), Jane (Ian), Susan, Jenny (Tom) and Gordon (Lindsay), also by sister in-law Barb (Mike), brothers in law Norm (late Shannon) and David (Patty). She’ll also be remembered by many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by sister Patty (Mark), granddaughter Sadie and nephew George. Debbie was a floral designer all of her career in Peterborough, Huntsville and Chatham including 39 years as an accredited FTD Master Designer at Syd Kemsley Florists. She also designed floral arrangements for Birdie’s Nest for a number of years. In her spare time she loved playing with her grandchildren and watching them grow. Gardening around the house was an activity she very much enjoyed and had the proverbial ‘green thumb’. Travelling was something she was very fond of as well, including a trip to England, vacations in the Caribbean, Florida, California and 2 years ago, a family trip to the Vancouver area and then a road trip to the East Coast. Special thanks to Dr. Xenocostas at London Regional Cancer, Dr. Maze at Princess Margaret, family physician Dr. McCulloch, VON nurse Mary Beth and all of the staff involved in her treatments. Also special thanks to her best friend Lorie for always being there for her. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration Of Life will be held at later date. If desired, memorial donations to London Regional Cancer Clinic or Princess Margaret Hospital would be appreciated by the family.
Classifieds
Michael Pilon, 71 years old, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family August 24, 2024 Mike loved life & was a passionate sports fan. He loved the Detroit Lions, the Toronto Maple Leafs & Raptors. At 33 years old Mike returned to school to become a teacher where he excelled in teaching French along with all other subjects. Upon retiring, Mike along with his wife, moved to Dresden where they bought & operated a retirement home. After selling the home in 2008 he worked at Home Depot for a few years then became a bus driver in Chatham. Mike loved to meet new people & took an interest in their lives. He is survived by his wife Glenda, children Nicole (Curtis Wilson), David (Kelly), Ryan, Scott (Randi), grandchildren Michaela (Neil), Hunter Lynne (Kyle), Carson, Jenna, Alexis, Braiden, Christian, Marshall, Kailey, Madilyn, and 3 great grandchildren Kinsley, Indie and Silas. There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday September 7, 2024 from 1-4pm at Loyal Order of Moose No 1499 (Moose Lodge) 777 Tecumseh Rd W, Windsor, ON. To leave online condolences, please go to www.lifetransitions.ca
Beverly Ann Kelly
Saturday, September 14th
2-4pm
Skyline Living Apartment, Common Room (57 Riverview Dr., Chatham)
Thank You
Your sympathy with our loss of the “Loving Legend, Brad Everitt” will long be remembered. We would like to thank all of our family and friends: old and new for all your love, hugs, support, cards, flowers donations, meals, calls and messages. It meant the world to us along this journey. A big shout out to McKinleys for making everything just as he would have wanted it to be and the Links for a beautiful celebration of a life well lived. We could not have done it without all your love.
Blessings, Annette, Jessie, Kate and Shawn
In Memoriam
In loving memory of a dear wife, mother and grandmother who left us 9 years ago, Marian Spears, Feb.15, 1942 - Aug. 31, 2015
We think about you always We talk about you still You have never been forgotten And you never will. We hold you close within our hearts And there you will remain To walk with us through our lives Until we meet again.
This week’s puzzle answers. Puzzles on page 20
Remembered by husband John, daughters Michaelanne and Shandra and granddaughter Ashley
Card of Thanks Happy Anniversary
CONGRATULATIONS
to our Dad & Mom Happy 60th Anniversary!
Reg & Brenda DeNure
August 29, 1964
Cheers to 60 years
Love Danielle, Jacquelyn, Pierrette, Brent & Families
8ft aluminum step ladder. New conditions, in Chatham. Call 519-784-7004.
2008 Honda Civic Coupe. Always had Honda service, has under 200,000kms. Lived inside a garage, senior giving up driving due to age. Phone 519354-7241.
For Sale Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Ready-to-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-354-3411
Wanted
Bowling Starts
This Weekend!
Friday, September 6 6:15am Bantams & Juniors
Saturday, September 7 9:00am - Smurfs & PeeWees 11:00am - Bantams
Sunday, September 8 6:15pm - Juniors & Seniors Bowlerama
YOUTH BOWLING CANADA
Wanted to rent or buy 1 or 4 acres of land in Chatham-Kent area. No buildings or utilities needed. Rural area preferred. 519-3525414 or 226-6275414.
Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-727-8894.
Office Space
3 Offices Available for Rent: all utilities included, central air. Nice & clean. Ready to move in. 991 Richmond St, Franklin Square. 519-3805438.
265 St. Clair St., Chatham