Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Crowfest flocks to Chatham
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
Celebrating what was once little more than a large nuisance bird for Chatham-Kent is on the agenda this week.
Chatham-Kent Crowfest takes place Sept. 18-21 in downtown Chatham.
Crowfest got an early start with the home decorating contest. It began in early September, with top prize being $500.
As for the rest of Crowfest, world-famous buskers will perform 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.
This is the first year Crowfest, which turns three, will take place in September. The first two renditions occurred in October. Canniff said the fall climate led organizers to move it up a month.
“Weather, weather and
Adoption Event
with North Bay Humane Society
Thinking of adding a new addition to the family? Join us at our upcoming event to meet adoptable pets and learn more about pet adoption.
more weather,” he said of the reason for the move to September. “In October, we were looking at colder temperatures. And for the first two years, we had really cool temperatures.”
He added rain fell for part of the event last year.
However, the idea behind Crowfest was to celebrate the large black birds at a time when murders of the birds left farmers’ fields to return to Chatham in numbers.
“The original design of Crowfest was to be around Halloween and around where the crows
Pet Value Chatham 647 Grand Ave. W. Chatham Saturday, September 28 9am-5pm Sunday, September 29 10am-1pm
came back to Chatham,” Canniff said.
The fall was also appealing because of a dearth of other events to the point organizers didn’t fear stepping on the toes and encroaching on other local events.
“It’s meant to create some excitement,” Canniff said. “My favourite part is the buskers themselves. We bring them from around the world. It’s an opportunity to see these really cool acts live. It’s a great reason to get out with your family and friends. And the beauty
is, when you come downtown, it’s all free.”
There will be vendors galore in the downtown as well, with in excess of 100 displaying wares, along with the various downtown stores.
Epilepsy
Southwestern Ontario will benefit from a 50/50 draw, with tickets sold during Crowfest, as it has in previous years.
“My favourite part is the buskers themselves. We bring them from around the world. It’s an opportunity to see these really cool acts live. It’s a great reason to get out with your family and friends. And the beauty is, when you come downtown, it’s all free.”
- Mayor Darrin Canniff
Organizers said they hope to raise at least $15,000 to help support programming in Southwestern Ontario.
ESWO’s services are free and without government funding, so the organization relies heavily on
Companions for ChangeTM is the charity brand arm of the Pet Valu family of stores, dedicated to supporting causes that help pets and pet parents in need in their local community, and across Canada. Each year, we hold two big events – Pet Appreciation Month and Companions for Change Month –to collect food and supplies for pets in need and host adoption events to help find the right forever homes for homeless pets. To learn more about Companions for Change, its supported causes and events visit https://www.petvalu.ca/companionsforchange.
fundraising efforts, donations, and assistance from the community to provide support, information and education to individuals and families affected by epilepsy. Tickets are available online at rafflebox. ca/raffle/crowfest2024. Tickets will also be available to be purchased at all Crowfest events using cash or credit.
Canniff said Crowfest would not be possible without the support of countless volunteers and sponsors.
“People are stepping up, volunteering their time,” he said.
Returning land back to natural state
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Might “Turtle Beach” become one of C-K’s hottest reptile destinations?
Bob and Moira Kerr hope so.
The man-made bit of sand is but one of the features of the new Kerr-Wilson Renaturalization Corridor being constructed by the couple along a portion of the Flooker-Hinton municipal drain west of Charing Cross.
It’s a full-on labour of love for the ecologically minded Kerrs.
“I would hope to lead by example,” said Bob of the project that’s been two years in the making.
When complete, it will reclaim a 12-acre slice of land for nature.
“We have an opportunity here to give back land that is not ideal for farming. So, we’re going to
give it back to nature,” he said. Plus, he joked, wife Moira “hates to see bare ground.”
With construction underway for the past month, the development was one of six local revitalization projects featured in the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority’s fourth annual Cultivating Conservation tour Sept. 11. The self-guided tour showcased different properties where landowners worked with the authority to complete projects to enhance the environment.
Besides the Kerr-Wilson initiative, stops included the Gutoskie tallgrass prairie project; the Buis project where livestock exclusion fencing has been installed; a tree planting project on the Dodman property; the installation of green infrastructure and drainage on a McKinlay property and a wetland installation on the Brinkman property.
ALUS (Alternative Land Use Services) also collaborated on the projects.
The Kerr-Wilson corridor is located on land that was once used to graze cattle and raise cash crops. The parcel of land west of the drain was owned by the Kerr family, while the east parcel was owned by Bob’s late grandfather Robert Wilson, a former reeve of Harwich Township.
Still in its early stages, the corridor is a testament to nature. Three new wetlands, a hibernaculum for snake habitat, an irrigation pond, an inline pond and a sediment pond have been installed.
Native pollinator plants, headland buffer areas, and the planting of native Carolinian trees along the slope are part of the future plan.
A bench has been installed adjacent to Turtle Beach and the couple plans to build a bridge across the drain next year.
According to Bob, the development is a team effort. The Kerrs worked with a consultant, Darrel Dick Excavating, the LTVCA, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and the federal government.
Permission to alter the watercourse was needed from both the municipality and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to allow for the construction of three
“Newbury” weirs. Continued on page 4
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority agricultural program co-ordinator Donna Small with environment-conscious couple Moira and Bob Kerr at the Kerr-Wilson Renaturalization Corridor site.
Apartment contractor turfed
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has fired a company that failed to deliver on its promise to build a 27-unit affordable housing complex in Chatham.
Officials recently announced the municipality terminated the contract with BECC Construction Inc. following a two-year delay in the three-storey build.
According to a municipal media release, the development was supposed to be ready for occupancy in 2023. BECC had been hired for both the design and construction. The deal included shipping pre-built units to 101 McNaughton Ave-
Supposed to be completed in 2023, a 27-unit affordable housing project on McNaughton Avenue has seen its builder fired by the municipality.
nue site to install on the structure’s foundation.
Municipal officials said Chatham-Kent remains committed to completing the build with work to resume after a new contractor is found through
the request for proposal process.
The matter will return to C-K council following the selection of a successful bidder. A revised timeline will be presented at that time.
The build is located directly south of the 99 McNaughton Ave. social housing complex recently damaged by fire. Currently, the work-inprogress is shrouded in tarps.
Conservationism on tour in C-K
Continued from page 3
The weirs are designed to hold back water, but still allow fish passage.
The intent is to hold more water on the landscape,” Bob explained.
Bob, a second-generation farmer, whose home farm is located on Indian Creek Road, has been farming since 1971. Although he farmed traditionally with his father, Lawrence, concern for the environment was always there.
“We’ve always had an interest in soil building but we farmed conventionally, “ he said. “We fed cattle and we had manure – a wonderful asset. However, we found feeding cattle was an economic roller coaster and our facilities were getting
old. We really needed to rebuild.”
Ahead of the curve, the Kerr’s began transitioning away from conventional farming towards organics in 2000. They began growing organic asparagus and today are supplying Pain Court’s Nature’s Finest with organic onions and carrots. The business supplies Loblaw, with the C-K vegetables carrying the President’s Choice label.
“By being organic it was a niche market that wasn’t over supplied and so we have benefitted from that,” Bob said. “That was a good move.”
A total of 100 people took part in the tour with 88 attending a complimentary dinner at Red Barn.
The Chatham Voice
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Service provides a lifeline for many C-K seniors
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Two thousand, four hundred and seventy-two.
That’s the number of times Family Service Kent (FSK) ferried local residents to dialysis treatments in the one-year period ending March 1. And the figure doesn’t include thousands of other trips drivers made transporting people to cancer treatments, medical appointments and social commitments, according to Marie Bergsma, FSK’s manager of community support services.
raise $20,000 to assist vulnerable seniors with transportation costs.
“All of the money raised is for our senior programs,” said Marjorie Crew, volunteer and wellbeing co-ordinator for the organization. “The program is extremely busy and it puts a lot of kilometres on our vehicles.”
“The demand is higher than what we can provide. Our vans take people to medical appointments in London and Windsor, as well as in Chatham-Kent.”
- FSK’s Marie Bergsma
“The demand is higher than what we can provide,” Bergsma told The Voice in a recent interview. “Our vans take people to medical appointments in London and Windsor, as well as in Chatham-Kent.”
Travelling all those kilometres takes money and that’s why FSK is holding its third annual Grand Parade Sept. 21. The goal of the event is to
Rising costs and inflation have affected everyone, Crew said, noting the money from the fundraiser subsidizes travel costs for users, with a portion going towards delivering frozen meals and counselling.
“Things are very expensive right now,” she added. “Running the fleet involves a lot of expense that we are trying not to pass onto our clients.”
“Utilizing our vans is often a last resort for people who don’t have family and friends to drive them,” Bergsma explained. “Most of our trips are medical, but there are some that are social. We do take a lot of people for dialysis.”
The vans are used for the CareLink and adVANtage programs. Riders contribute a base rate of at least $21 per trip.
As part of a joint collaboration, the vans are also used in Chatham’s Canadian Red Cross Let’s Go Home program transporting patients discharged from hospital, as well as taking them to follow-up appointments.
More information about the fundraiser can be found online at thegrandparade.org/ location/chatham-kent. Individuals who want to donate or participate are invited to sign up online or register a team.
The parade takes place the same day as Crowfest activities in the downtown. FSK will be setting up a booth on King Street where donations will be accepted.
The event begins and ends at FSK’s headquarters at 50 Adelaide St. S. in Chatham, starting at 11 a.m. Food, refreshments and family friendly activities are also part of the fun.
Nathan McKinlay
In our column, we often share the insights, stories and encounters experienced at the Funeral Home and beyond. We are blessed to be able to help families of all different faiths, backgrounds and walks of life through their grief journey. At a time of loss, people are often either at their best or at their worst, and families tend to either come together or come apart. Working with grief and death day in and day out can be challenging. It is certainly not a job for everyone and not everyone can cut it. We are fortunate to have been able to hone and train a team of compassionate and passionate, authentic and hard-working professionals to serve our families. Our greatest asset is our team. As such I only felt it appropriate to highlight some of the individuals that I am fortunate enough to work with.
- Nathan
Bring your questions and ideas!
COUNCILLOR COFFEE CHAT
It is hard to believe it has been over ten years since Alyssa Jerrett started as an intern at our Funeral Home. My Uncle Rob and I both remember her as one of the best interviews we have ever had. Alyssa is truly passionate about Funeral Service and serving families. She has a gift for seeing the big picture and frequently coordinates the staffing across our three chapels, prioritizing tasks, dotting I’s and crossing T’s. Alyssa thrives in a busy environment and can keep 10 files on the go in any given moment. Alyssa and I can almost communicate telepathically and I certainly I see her as my right arm at the Funeral Home. Thank you Alyssa for over a decade of service - our profession is all the better having you in it!
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice Family Service Kent community support services manager Marie Bergsma and driver Fred Caissie showcase one of the agency’s 12 accessible vans.
Opinion
Celebrating conservation
Chatham-Kent take heart – there are folks here striving to do their best for Mother Nature.
Take the Kerr-Wilson Renaturalization Corridor off of Middle Line south of Chatham for example. There, Bob and Moira Kerr are returning 12 acres of land to the way it once was.
With a few enhancements of course.
A sandy area for turtles, designated snake habitat and specialized weirs that allow fish to navigate the Flooker-Hinton drain are all part of the team effort that includes the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority, Chatham-Kent and the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans. It will take a few years, but the dusty piece of land will again offer a lifeline to plants and wildlife.
The parcel was one of six properties featured in the LTVCA’s recent conservation tour, proof positive that people actually care about the health of the land.
Let’s compare that to what’s going on elsewhere in C-K, where in some spots, nature continues to take a beating.
It’s happening on properties where owners continue to take down woodlots unfettered.
That’s because Chatham-Kent refus-
es to take a stand to protect the small bit of forest cover that remains.
Whether it’s due to the American influence of “you can’t tell me what to do,” absentee landlords or Big Ag corporations trying to suck the profits out of every last inch of ground, woodlots continue to vanish.
Or maybe those responsible just don’t know any better. But that seems unlikely.
A year ago, council voted to get rid of a temporary woodlot protection bylaw prohibiting clear cutting in a narrow 9-8 vote.
That’s pretty close.
The majority of Ontario municipalities have tree-cutting bylaws in place to protect forests. Yet, Chatham-Kent continues to be the one of the outliers with the local ag lobby continuing to petition government to allow them to do as they please.
Around the globe, world leaders grapple with the fallout from climate change. High temperatures are setting records, water levels are rising, storms are becoming fiercer, cities are becoming intolerably hot.
One of the solutions is to protect existing forests and plant more trees.
Now there’s a thought.
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Put all seniors on council, save cash
Editor: As I understand it Chatham-Kent councillors are paid a salary of more than $36,000 a year. Most have other jobs, which makes it hard to attend council meetings on time requiring them to have catered meals on meeting days and security guards.
I have an idea. Let’s have retired persons serve on council instead. Their time is their own and they’ll always be on time, probably early,
for meetings and will not require a catered meal.
I’m thinking that they won’t need to make $36,000 a year either. I propose a salary of $10,000 a year.
Imagine, if you will, that we have all or mostly retired people on council how much money in salaries would be saved, not to mention catered food, bodyguards, etc.
In fact, I volunteer for the job. I live in town, I
ran two businesses, my time is my own, save two to four hours a day for my model RR. I own my own home so I’m familiar with the problems facing homeowners as well as business owners, I’m a veteran (reserves) with a love for history. And I won’t vote for my own salary increases!
Editor: My wife and I moved to Chatham about four months ago. It is our town now.
But we are constantly amazed at the garbage thrown on the ground. Have people no pride in their town?
Although I am quite arthritic, I do pick up what I can when the garbage containers are out.
In one of the malls, I picked up garbage just
eight inches from the garbage container! Talk about civic pride. Maybe they just don’t care?
Bob Ward Chatham
Bryan Marino Chatham
Property market stays warm
The Chatham Voice
Home sales continued to tick upwards in August in Chatham-Kent.
According to the Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors (CKAR), August sales were up by about seven per cent compared to August 2023. That’s nine more properties changing hands.
Despite the bump, home sales in August remained nearly five per cent below the five-year average for sales in the month of August.
Look at how sales have progressed through the first eight months of 2024 compared to 2023, they
are up by about three per cent.
Carrie Patrick, CKAR president, sees it as a good sign.
“Home sales continued to rise in August and new listings hit their highest level on record for this month as our local market continues to gather steam,” Patrick said in a media release.
The number of new listings was up by 26.1 per cent from August 2023.
There were 275 new residential listings in August 2024.
This was also the largest number of new listings added in the month of August in history.
’Burg tour goes back in time
now home to the Clock Tower Dental Centre.
All aboard for those who want to “Experience Wallaceburg’s Yesterdays.”
That’s the name of the first-ever wagon ridealong tour set to take place Sept. 28 weather permitting.
According to Wallaceburg & District Museum curator Kaelyn Gregory, the event will feature 17 stops at the town’s significant landmarks, complete with actors who will help tell the story.
“Everyone is welcome,” said Gregory, noting the tour will use WAMBO’s people mover trailers to shuttle participants to various locations.
“We’ll be focusing mainly on James Street and Margaret Avenue,” Gregory said, adding the tour will cross both the Murray Street and Selkirk Street bridges.
One of the buildings to be visited is the former Dominion Public Building on James Street that’s
Those new listings were 19.2 per cent above the five-year average and 36.3 per cent above the 10-year average for the month of August.
Despite the influx of new listings, what’s on
the market overall is a bit down, Patrick said.
“The overall level of available listings has begun trending down but remains above historical norms, so there is still a window of opportunity
for buyers who are looking to negotiate a deal amid an ample supply of homes for sale,” she said.
The average price of homes sold in August 2024 was $412,070, down 11.7 per cent from August
2023.
Looking at home prices through the first eight months of the year, the year-to-date average price was $426,536, a dip of 1.2 per cent from the first eight months of 2023.
Built during the Depression in 1935, the stately brick structure was first a post office and a federal customs and excise building when Wallaceburg was a busy port.
The large clock in the tower was made by Wallaceburg-based Harrison’s Jewellers and the building itself was designed by local architect George Whale. In 1968, the building was purchased by the Wallaceburg Police Department and the service made its headquarters there until the 1990s.
The then vacant building was purchased by dentist Dr. Kevin Fast in 2001. In 2019, the business was purchased by Dr. Kyle Charlton and continues to operate.
The three-kilometre tour has two times available at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets are $15 and spots can be booked by calling the museum at 519-627-8962.
OPEN HOUSE
The Chatham Voice
Car, home raided in $500K drug bust
A B.C. man is sitting in jail in the wake of a $540,000 drug bust in Chatham recently.
Chatham-Kent police executed a drug raid on a vehicle and on a short-term rental property on Erie Shore Drive just west of Erieau on Sept. 5.
A search of the vehicle and the residence produced about half a million dollars worth of fentanyl, $42,000 in cocaine, about $2,000 in cash, as well as mobile
devices, digital scales, packaging material and a Taser, police say. Maxwell Goobie, 27, or Burnaby, B.C., is charged with two
counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking and unauthorized possession of a prohibited weapon.
Denomy Jude DenomyChris Denomy Byron Denomy
The Chatham Voice
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
Chris Papple* 519-350-1402
Brian Peifer** 519-436-2669
Elizabeth Peifer* 519-436-8959
Patrick Pinsonneault** 519-360-0141
Chris Polley* 905-903-0505
Scott Poulin* 519-350-5320
Katherine Rankin** 226-542-2964
Deborah Rhodes* 519-401-5470
David Smith* 519-350-1615
bath, lg kitchen, garage. Call Terry Chauvin.
Dazzling 4br, 2.5 bath, backyard oasis, open concept, wine closet. Call Elliot or Ashley Wilton.
Lifesavers recognized
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
The life of a suicidal woman threatening to jump from a Highway 401 overpass was saved earlier this year, thanks to Chatham-Kent first responders.
The combined efforts of the team – which included nine Chatham-Kent police officers and 10 911 operators – were recognized at a recent Chatham-Kent Police Services board meeting, with each individual receiving a Chief’s Commendation from police chief Kirk Earley.
“The co-ordinated efforts by everyone involved contributed to the most desirable outcome,” said Earley, as he praised the team for “good judgment and teamwork” in saving the woman’s life.
According to a statement from Earley, police received a call from a suicide hotline May 16, requesting a well-being check on a woman who was planning to commit suicide.
The previous day, officers had dealt with the woman on the same issue and brought her to hospital for treatment.
Because he had dealt with the woman May
Chatham-Kent police Chief Kirk Early, left, and Mayor Darrin Canniff, right, handed out commendations for staff that worked together to help talk a woman out of jumping onto Highway 401 earlier this year.
15, Const. Nathan Pratt began to search for her.
Simultaneously, police began to receive multiple 911 calls of a woman atop the Charing Cross Road overpass.
C-K constables Ryan Gardiner and Alex Mungar came next and discovered the woman on the bridge dangling her feet over the edge. The
officers requested that Charing Cross Road be closed, that C-K Fire & Rescue assist below, and that OPP shut down Hwy. 401.
According to Earley, Gardiner began negotiating with the woman while four officers blocked traffic.
Two other officers arrived, with Const. Rick
Bertok talking with the woman, as he had spoken with her previously. Then, within 30 minutes of coming on scene, constables Gardiner and Bertok were able to grab the woman and pull her to safety.
CKPS police officers receiving a commendation include Pratt, Gardiner, Mungar, Avery Wilson, Branden Grellmore, Mar-
ko Sapateiro, Joel Rehill, Bertok and Sgt. Josh Flikweert.
Emergency communications operators recognized include Brock Bechard, Helen Grubb, Samantha Cowdrey, Danielle Bird, Jennifer Roesch, Tori Labadie, Keely Smith, McKenna Ladd, Brook-lyn Phelan and Camryn Dudley.
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Happy times at Kidney Walk
New docs for CKHA
The Chatham Voice
Chatham-Kent Health Alliance has added a new hospitalist.
Dr. Dalia Kashash brings extensive expertise and experience to CKHA.
That’s mere weeks after bringing two other accomplished physicians to its roster.
Dr. Mohamad Fawaz Dawamneh has joined the laboratory department as a pathologist, while Dr. Menakor Nenwon will serve as a new hospitalist.
“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Dawamneh and Dr. Nenwon to CKHA,” said Dr. Zeke Milkovic, acting chief of staff at CKHA, in a media release. “We are pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Kashash to our healthcare team at CKHA.” Kashash, a lifelong resi-
dent of Windsor, obtained her Doctor of Medicine degree from Western University and completed her Family Medicine residency at Queen’s University. In addition to her role as a hospitalist, Kashash is enthusiastic about performing various small procedures. These procedures will be offered at CKHA’s ambulatory care department and include newborn circumcisions, newborn tongue tie releases, skin biopsies, intrauterine device (IUD) insertion and removal, as well as toenail procedures.
Patients whose primary care providers do not offer these services are encouraged to seek a referral to Kashash.
Dawamneh, formerly the head and medical director of laboratory med-
icine in Fredericton, NB, has had a diverse career spanning multiple countries and institutions.
Dawamneh initially practiced as a general practitioner in Syria and Saudi Arabia before pursuing Residency in Combined Anatomic and Clinical Pathology at Brown University, Rhode Island. Nenwon also brings a diverse background to his new role. He earned a Bachelor of Science from Cuttington University in Liberia in 2008, followed by a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of The Gambia in 2016. In 2020, the doctor completed a Master of Public Health at the University of Toronto before continuing his clinical education at Western University’s Residency program.
Contributed image
Rowdy Willson, 4, is all smiles while taking part in the 2024 Kidney Walk in Chatham recently. The walk raised nearly $11,700 and counting, with the final tally still to come. “We passed our goal twice,” walk ambassador Angela Steward said. There were 49 registered participants and more people chose to just come out and enjoy the day.
Community Events
Thursday, September 19, 2024:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm.7:00pm: Networking / Wine & Cheese. Everyone is welcome.
• Blues & Books: Doc McLean stops as part of his “Secret Stories” blues tour across Ireland, UK, Maritime Canada & South Africa. Upstairs at Branch 18, Canadian Legion. Doors open at 7pm. Show at 7:30pm. $20. Licensed event. Ticket can be purchased at The Branch 18 Canadian Legion or The Wallaceburg District Museum.
• The Chatham-Kent Quilters’ Guild meeting at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave W, Chatham. Doors open at 6:00 for socializing and shopping. Meeting starts at 7:00pm. September 19th is our annual OPEN HOUSE! Everyone is welcome and there is NO CHARGE for visitors this night only. Come and enjoy our presentations, guest speakers and all of the fun at our meeting. You are welcome to contact us through our Facebook page or our website www. ckquiltguild.com for more info.
• Afternoon Jamboree at the Merlin Legion from 1-4pm. Bring your singing voice/instruments and join us for a great afternoon. Donation welcome.
• New to Chatham-Kent? Join us for an insightful session on Understanding Municipal Government at the Civic Center (315 King Street West, Chatham) on at 2:00pm
Friday, September 20, 2024:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Supper served 4:00–6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are ham & scalloped potatoes or fish & chips, $13.00. Take out available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Come and play Fun Darts starting at 7:00 p.m. *Patio Entertainment-Ray Whaling 7-10pm. Everyone is welcome.
• Perch/Merlicken Chicken Friday Night Dinner. Served from 4:30-7pm at Merlin Legion. 5 pc perch $20. Perch/chicken combo $20. 3 pc chicken $14.50. Contact 519-689-4884 for more info. Take outs also available.
Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St is a Chicken parmagian dinner with pasta, salad and garlic toast. Dine in $13 and pickup $14. All meals are served at 6pm. Everyone welcome. Call 519-352-8291 to order
• Enjoy a friendly game of Pepper, 1pm. St. Clair Estates, 15 Dunkirk Chatham. $3.00 per person. Everyone Welcome.
Saturday, September 21, 2024:
• Join us at the Merlin Legion for Karaoke Bob 7-11pm. Meal special: 1lb wings with drink $11.50. Please call 519-689-4884 for more information.
• 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.
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am– 9:30pm. Meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch3:00pm.– 5:30 pm. Entertainment by Unity Station from 4:30-9:30. Come out and check out our menu. Everyone is welcome.
• Tent meeting with Bob Dutko: 10am & 1pm. Bob is known for “Christian Apologetics Made Simple” where he translates factual evidence into simple everyday language. Bob Dutko will be speaking on Top 10 proofs – The Bible is true. Top 10 proofs – For the physical resurrection of Jesus Christ. Running Creek Ministry, 29292 Running Creek Rd, Wallaceburg. Cell: 519328-5672. BBQ is available for purchase with proceeds going to “Loads of Love”. Or you can bring your own lunch! Everyone is welcome!
• Chatham-Kent Coin Club Fall Coin Show at the Active Lifestyle Center (9am-3pm), 20 Merritt Ave, Chatham. 30 Dealer tables both selling & buying coins, tokens, paper money and bullion. Free Admission & Parking. More info contact President Paul Robb (probb1@cogeco.ca) (289-228-2817).
• Please join us at the Mary Webb Centre for the Arts in Highgate when singer/songwriter Royal Wood returns for the 4th time at 8:00pm. Wood is a Juno-nominated Canadian musician and record producer. Tickets $45 in advance, $50 at the door, taxes in. Licensed Bar opens at 6:30pm, door to concert hall opens at 7pm. More info for re tickets at marywebbcentre.ca.
• CK Welcomes: A Community Showcase is the final event of the CK Welcome Week 2024, and this is the ideal information sharing event to connect with the community and explore local opportunities. Join us on Saturday September 21, 2024, at Kingston Park (91 Paxton Drive, Chatham) from 1:00pm to 4:00pm and let’s celebrate our vibrant community!
Sunday, September 22, 2024:
• Merlin Legion Classic Country Jamboree 1:30-5:30pm followed by a scrumptious perch dinner. $5 entry with musicians/singers free. Dinner is $15 for 3pc perch, $20 for 5pc and includes potato, vegetable, coleslaw, dessert with tea and coffee. No Frills meal & hamburgers also available, so bring your dancing shoes and don’t miss the fun event. Please contact 519-476-5870 to book your spot!!!
• Breakfast at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 9am to Noon. All meals are cooked to order. Everyone welcome.
Monday, September 23, 2024:
• Enjoy a friendly game of Euchre, 1pm. St. Clair Estates, 15 Dunkirk Chatham. $3.00 per person. Everyone Welcome.
Tuesday, September 24, 2024:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Euchre at 1:00 or spend the evening playing Shuffleboard or Euchre starting at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
Wednesday, September 25, 2024:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30 pm. Our daily special is meat loaf dinner. Fun Darts starting at 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
• Retired Women Teachers of Ontario, Chatham-Kent Branch, will meet at Chatham Moose Lodge, 9:30 a.m. Registration and socializing, noon meal $25. We invite all retired educators to hear about our supplemental insurance plan from Terry Kennedy of Manulife. Call Lynn Russell 519-6765900 by Sept.20.
Thursday, September 26, 2024:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
• Afternoon Jamboree at the Merlin Legion from 1-4pm. Bring your singing voice/instruments and join us for a great afternoon. Donation welcome.
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
CLUES DOWN 1. Greenwich Time 2. Metropolis 3. Complete 4. Scheduled 5. One who obeys
6. Resinlike substance secreted by certain lac insects
7. Days (Spanish)
8. Unsaturated hydrocarbon radical
CLUES ACROSS 1. Wrest
5. Russian river
10. Grupo Montparnasse founder
12. One who quits prematurely
14. Related to the nature of being 16. Early multimedia
18. Indigenous Tibetan religion
19. Tease
20. J.M. __, Irish dramatist
22. Pounds per square inch
23. Surrendered 25. Notable Dallas Cowboy Leon 26. Dash
27. Man who behaves dishonorably
28. British Air Aces
30. Data executive
31. Spiritual leader
33. Flower cluster
35. Of the cheek
37. Tears down
38. Uncoordinated
40. Touches lightly
41. Soak
42. Founder of Babism
44. Not good
45. Inches per minute (abbr.)
48. Type of casino game
50. Skills assessments for adults
52. Check
53. Gives a job
55. Fifth note of a major scale
56. Small, faint constellation
57. Thou
58. Reduce
63. Another recording
65. Removes for good
66. Jill and Catherine are two
67. Cruise
9. Region of the U.S. (abbr.)
10. Tributary of the Alabama River
11. One who eliminates
13. Ballroom music
15. Officer in the Book of Mormon
17. Denies
18. Barrels per day (abbr.)
21. Make vital
23. Former NFLer Newton
24. Kashmiri tribe
27. Indigenous S. American person
29. Capacitance unit
32. MLB great Scherzer
34. Taxi
35. Boggy
36. Artist’s workroom
39. Feline
40. Prosecutors
43. Freshwater perches
44. Young ladies
46. Whittles
47. Licensed for Wall Street
49. Type of gene
51. Express displeasure
54. Fly high
59. Norwegian krone
60. Investment account
61. Chinese surname
62. Language
64. By the way (abbr.)
Tiny homes, hefty price tag
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Chatham-Kent’s transitional 50-cabin tiny homes development is moving ahead – but it comes with a sizable price tag.
In a 15-1 vote Sept. 9, council greenlighted spending $3.8-million to fund capital costs on the initiative expected to begin this fall. That breaks down to $76,000 per unit, albeit not factoring the support buildings and infrastructure.
Cambridge-based NOW Housing has been contracted to supply the buildings at the Park Street East location in Chatham.
Intended to replace the Victoria Park Place homeless shelter, the development will see the construction of a community
building, one washroom pavilion, a security cabin, a utility cabin, as well as 50 cabins.
Several concerns were raised by councillors during the meeting. Chatham Coun. Michael Bondy, the only councillor to vote against the proposal, wondered if the tiny home development might become a draw of sorts for people outside Chatham-Kent.
“This seems like a pretty good gig,” Bondy told council, adding he’s heard there’s “busloads of people” coming from Toronto.
“Can we legally discriminate against these people?” Bondy asked. “I don’t have a Chatham-Kent passport.”
North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville also questioned how the municipality will control people from using the services
who don’t have “true familial ties” to Chatham-Kent.
In response, director of housing services Josh Myers, said staff have access to a provincial database allowing them to pinpoint the communities where people come from. Those from outside C-K are offered return transportation to their home communities.
“For our municipally funded programs, we are very clear when someone is contacting us that is it is for C-K residents who have a familial or residency background,” Myers said, noting those who call the homelessness hotline are immediately connected with a support worker.
Less than five per cent of C-K’s homeless are from other communities, Myers stressed, noting every community in Ontario is
This corner lot on Park
tham-Kent’s transitional
for the homeless.
facing the same issue, and bigger centres are able to offer more.
“I don’t see C-K becoming a destination for services,” Myers explained. Other councillors took aim at the lack of support from upper-tier governments to address the homelessness issue – despite the fact it’s a provincial responsibility.
“I really hope our provincial counterparts hear our cries for help and come back to the table
‘Field of Dreams’ has a home
Chatham-Kent council is throwing its support behind an accessible ball diamond at Chatham’s “Field of Dreams.”
and support us,” said Chatham Coun. Alysson Storey.
South Kent Coun. Anthony Ceccacci thanked staff for their work on the homelessness file, noting the problem is both difficult and costly.
“Nobody wants to see this kind of money being spent on something we really should be getting from the upper levels of government but we have no choice at this point,” Ceccacci said.
C-K chief financial officer Gord Quinton said there’s been no commitment to date from either the federal or provincial governments to help out with funding. The cabin development will be paid for through a 15-year internal debenture, with the final amount to be determined following completion. The total will include any additional upper-tier funding that may come C-K’s way.
The project will see a new diamond constructed on the soccer field adjacent to Fergie Jenkins Field, allowing people of all abilities to play baseball, including Challenger baseball.
Three Chatham councillors – Marjorie Crew and Conor Allin and Brock McGregor – plus Mayor Darrin Canniff are kicking in a portion of their respective Hydro One Community Fund allocations for the project.
The $35,000 contribution will be funnelled towards designing the new infrastructure.
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Street East in Chatham is slated to become the new home of Cha-
50-cabin tiny home complex. The development will provide shelter
The Chatham Voice
OBITUARIES
John Vince
82, Sunday, September 8, 2024
Kendrick Funeral Home
Kathy Banman
5, Monday, September 9, 2024
Kendrick Funeral Home
Charla Mae Sparrow
85, Tuesday, September 3, 2024
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
John “Bud” McKellar
79, Saturday, September 7, 2024
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Douglas Browning
87, Tuesday, September 10, 2024
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Harry “Butch” Marianchuk
71, Tuesday, September 10, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Bill Denike
85, Monday, September 9, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
David Miller
72, Tuesday, September 3, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
John Joseph Brennan
73, Friday, September 6, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Charles Naud
75, Sunday, September 8, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Glen Hamaguchi
Monday, September 9, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Arlene Blondeel (Miller)
81, Thursday, September 5, 2024 Life Transitions
Irene Campbell (Paterson)
Sunday, September 8, 2024 Life Transitions
Clive Hamilton
Tuesday, September 10, 2024 Life Transitions
Michael Meyerink
71, Wednesday, September 11, 2024 Life Transitions
Joyce Knight (Gagner-Rougoor)
81, Friday, September 6, 2024 Nicholls Funeral Home
Albert “Bert” Flanagan
80, Tuesday, September 10, 2024 Nicholls Funeral Home
Lillian Armstrong
86, Monday, September 9, 2024
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Linda Tatara
76, Monday, September 9, 2024
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Sr. Jean Doyle
Saturday, September 7, 2024
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Marie Emma Cadotte
94, Wednesday, September 11, 2024
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Patricia Ann Harding
75, Monday, September 9, 2024
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Terry R. Mills
72, Sunday, September 8, 2024
Sifton Funeral Home, St. Thomas
Eric Patrick O’Neil
78, Tuesday, September 10, 2024
Harris Funeral Home, London
A gym – for crafty types
Rachel Jacobson and Stacey McKellar are bringing a gym-like concept to life in Chatham, except instead of pumping iron, members will create crafts.
The co-owners of Dabble Maker Space, located on Riverview Drive in Chatham, showcased the idea of providing access to tools, supplies, and knowledgeable makers, with the goal of helping the people of Chatham-Kent to follow their curiosity to learn new skills, or work on projects and crafts they might not have space or budget to get going on their own.
Becoming a member of Dabble Maker Space Inc. is like a gym membership for creative people, the owners said.
“You have access to a variety of equipment and supplies to strength your creativity curiosity. You can learn from a variety of skilled makers who can train you in areas you wish to focus on. Or you can come with your own projects and have space away from distractions to focus on your process,” the
duo said in a media release. Home Sweet Home
As part of its second “Home Sweet Home” campaign the RONA Foundation will be lending a hand to those in need.
Between now and Sept. 30, RONA’s Chatham-Kent stores will be collecting donations and accepting online orders to assist families impacted by domestic violence by collecting donations for the Chatham-Kent Women’s Centre.
The RONA Foundation oversees the philanthropic activities of RONA Inc. with the latest campaign supporting nearly 150 Canadian non-profits, assisting victims of domestic violence and their children, low-income families, and people with disabilities or mental health issues.
In a media release, Foundation director Josee Lafitte said that “every person should
have a safe place to live.” RONA Foundation board chair Catherine Laporte said the retailer’s in-store and distribution centre teams are inspired by this “timely cause” noting each team chooses the local organization it wants to support.
For more information visit rona.ca.
Abraham Orthodontics gives to Goodfellows Abraham Orthodontics is looking to help make people smile across Chatham-Kent.
In celebration of its first year in Chatham, the company teamed up with Chatham Goodfellows to provide about 1,500 toothbrushes for the Goodfellows to distribute this year.
Dr. Maxwell Abraham said he and his team just wanted to give back to the community.
• Business Voice is a bi-monthly column in The Chatham Voice that highlights some of the achievements made and efforts underway in Chatham-Kent’s business community. Send your information to bruce@ chathamvoice.com.
The Chatham Voice
Contributed imagee
Rachel Jacobson, co-owner of Dabble Maker Space, hosted an open house at the new craft collaboration centre on Riverview Drive in Chatham.
Classifieds
Naud, Charles
A resident of Chatham, Charles Naud passed peacefully on Sunday, September 8, 2024 at Riverview Gardens Nursing Home at the age of 75. He was the son of the late Adelard & Lucille (nee Simoneau) Naud. Forever missed by his wife of 54 beautiful years, Pierrette (nee Desjardins). Proud father of Eric Naud (Karen), Nancy Sybersma (Doug) & Chantal Naud (William). Grandpa of Cassandra (Avro), Mitchell, Piper, & Jack. Pepe of the late Sawyer, Maddison & Oakley. Brother of Rita, Gaetane, Albert, Nicole, Gaetan, Carole, Lorenzo, the late Lucette, Gisele, the late Sylvie, & Sylvain. Missed by many nieces, nephews & extended family. Charles retired from Meritor as a Labourer, and previously worked for Motor Wheel. He was a Proud Member & Volunteer with the Knights of Columbus. Charles enjoyed spending his time bowling with friends, golfing and spending time with family. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff of Riverview Gardens Nursing Home for their continuing care during his time there. Family received friends on Friday, September 13, 2024 at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham from 1:00 pm until a Funeral Liturgy at 2:00 pm. Cremation has taken place. In memory of Charles, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com
Happy 90th Birthday Doreen Aitken
Gregory Drive Public School 9th Annual September 28th
7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 180 Gregory Dr W, Chatham
Come out and support our Grade 8 class as they raise money for their trip to Muskoka!
Loans
MORTGAGES / LOANS
This week’s puzzle answers. Puzzles on page 20
ATTN: HUNTERS. For Sale: 2 portable aluminum tree stands. 1 self climbing aluminum stand, 1 camo dog house tent. $180.00 for all. Call 519-351-0430.
8ft aluminum step ladder. New conditions, in Chatham. Call 519-784-7004.
ver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-727-8894. Wanted For Sale Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Ready-to-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-354-3411
level of competency from $20/hour to $26/hour. Work Location after training can be work from home or work in office or hybrid. Business serves clients across Ontario but is based in Chatham. For the entire job posting including the details of how to apply please email bill@cravenfp.com
Week of September 22 - 28, 2024
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, a difficult problem may require you to take a step back and think about a different approach. Start fresh in a few days.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
A happy accident reconnects you with someone you haven’t seen in quite a while, Taurus. The rekindled relationship may lead to something even more concrete over the coming weeks.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, there is so much going on right now you may feel like your head is spinning. Start dividing your tasks into a more manageable list and see if others can pitch in.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, take a few days to mull over a financial situation that worries you. Is there another way you can approach it? Can you find an influx of capital to make things more manageable?
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
It is time to make a decision after working through various scenarios, Leo. Plans need to be made and it will take time to sort through all of the details. Everything will work out.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
It’s time to be honest with yourself, Virgo. Are you just telling people what they want to hear or are you truly ready to make a change? You may need to prove it to others for them to trust you.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, share enjoyable experiences with others. Your travels may prove a source of inspiration for others who simply need a nudge to get out of their comfort zones.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Carefully word your next email or text and read it over several times, Scorpio. There is a fine line between being firm and coming across as domineering. You don’t want to offend.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, a relationship may have ended in one respect, but the connections you share may keep you tied together for some time. Find a way to be friendly and civil at all times.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Put others first this week, Capricorn. Set aside your own list of tasks and figure out how you can lend a helping hand to a family member or friend.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Sometimes you need reassurance that you are doing a good job, Aquarius. Rest assured that you are giving it all you have and that has not gone unnoticed.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, it is time to make a decision about an issue with two seemingly good solutions. You’ve given things ample consideration, so trust your instincts.
