The Chatham Voice, Sept. 28, 2023

MPP Monte to leave politics

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Lambton-Kent-Middlesex

MPP Monte McNaughton is stepping down from politics.

The Newbury-area native, who has held the riding for the past 12 years, is also leaving his provincial cabinet post as Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, making him the third cabinet minister in Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservative government to resign in recent weeks.

McNaughton made the announcement Sept. 22 in a Facebook post, saying he is taking a job in the private sector.

In his statement, McNaughton said it has been “the honour of a lifetime to serve the people of Ontario” leading the labour, immigration, training and skills development portfolio for more than four years.

He also thanked his constituents.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to the people of Lambton-Kent-Middlesex,” McNaughton said. “It has been a privilege to have represented you since 2011.”

Ford’s government has been rocked recently by the so-called Greenbelt Scandal, which saw the province release portions of the environmentally sensitive greenbelt area to developers, some said to be personal friends of the premier. A probe by Ontario’s auditor general found the decision-making regarding the Greenbelt “favoured certain developers,” whose land on 15 properties could have a more than $8.3-billion increase in value.

On Sept. 21, Ford said he was backtracking on opening up the Greenbelt, admitting the gov-

ernment had made a mistake.

Even though McNaughton’s resignation came the following day, the MPP said it’s not connected to the Greenbelt issue.

“I realize that recent events will cause some to speculate about the reasons for my departure,” McNaughton wrote. “I want those people to know my decision is completely unrelated to those events.”

McNaughton said he supported Ford and thanked him for the many opportunities he was given, but said the decision is “the right one for me and my family.”

He also thanked his wife Kate and daughter Annie, who he called the “loves of my life” for supporting him through thick and thin.

McNaughton was first elected in 2011 and joined the provin-

cial cabinet in 2018 as the Minister of Infrastructure, before taking on the high-profile role as the head of Ontario’s labour ministry.

A spokesperson from McNaughton’s Strathroy constituency office said the office has been inundated with calls and emails voicing support for the 46-year-old politician.

October 6th

Earlier this month, Ontario Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Steve Clark, in the aftermath of the Greenbelt

scandal, followed by Kaleed Rasheed, Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery, resigned.

Chatham Voice file photo Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Monte McNaughton, seen here at a 2022 press conference, announced on Friday he is leaving provincial politics to take a job in the private sector.

Erie Shore Dr. to get $9M dyke

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

After decades of inaction, Chatham-Kent is finally moving forward to address ongoing erosion and high-water problems in the

flood prone area of Erie Shore Drive.

At a special meeting held at the Bradley Centre Sept. 21, council voted to proceed with a final report on building a new $8.9-million dyke to protect affected land and abandon all groynes and seawalls

Cremations Today

that are currently part of the Burk Drainage Works. While some were hesitant in taking the step; many felt the issue had been pushed aside for far too long.

Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew, who put forward the motion to proceed with the proposal, said approving the fix is “moving forward.

“I think we need to prevent any further risks to the citizens and the agricultural land and Erieau,” Crew said. “Everyone there is at risk if that dyke becomes compromised again. Doing nothing is not the right thing to do. It’s been 100 years this has been kicked down the road. I think we need to invest in this area to make

Family Serving Families

sure we’re not looking at this in 15 or 20 years.”

Chatham Coun. Michael Bondy said council should not delay in addressing the problem.

“I’ve been sitting here for a long time and we’ve been talking about this for a long time,” Bondy said. “People before me were talking about it for a long time as well, so here we are. I’m not comfortable not repairing it.”

According to the engineering report, there are around 726 hectares of land within the Burk system, including 75 agricultural properties, roads and McGeachy’s Pond. The area is served by a series of dykes and a number of internal gravity systems with a mechanically pumped outlet into Lake Erie. There are 153 year-round and seasonal residential properties located along the lakeshore.

The fix, as recommended by administration, includes relocating the Lakeshore Drain and building a new dyke on the north side of the road to prevent flows from the lake overtopping the dyke system.

Continued on page 5

Chatham Voice file photo

This house on Erie Shore Drive stood tall, until waves and storms blew the backdoor open and caved in the wall in early 2020. Nearly four years later, the municipality is taking action to shore up the dyke.

Residents unhappy with council’s decision

Continued from page 4

According to an engineering report, it provides increased flood protections for the land, minimizes the duration of flooding and provides front yard drainage for the residents of Erie Shore Drive.

Erie Shore Drive has been affected by rough waves and high-water levels periodically for many years, and the issue has been extensively studied in the past.

In March 2020, the threat of flooding forced many residents from their homes with the municipality declaring a state of emergency, closing the road for a period in the spring.

The municipality also undertook expensive mitigation measures, such as installing large concrete blocks, to try and protect the road and shore.

In 2021, some 80 members of the Erie Shore Drive Property Owner’s Association launched a lawsuit against Chatham-Kent, seeking damages related to high-water problems. The matter is still before the courts. Dave Taylor, director of legal services

for C-K, said a decision from the drainage referee could take anywhere from a year to 18 months or longer.

Council heard one verbal deputation and received one e-mail message on the matter.

Terra Cadeau, president of the Erie Shore Property Owner’s Association, asked council to consider postponing any action as there is a currently the legal matter before the provincial drainage referee.

In her comments, Cadeau told council that the groyne and seawall system currently in place works well and is paid for and maintained entirely by lakefront property owners.

She said Chatham-Kent has been negligent in protecting the groynes and dykes that are part of the Burk system.

The actions taken by council instruct the completion of a preliminary report only and final details may still be changed. A motion put forward by South Kent Coun.

Ryan Doyle to postpone taking action was defeated.

Following the meeting, Cadeau told reporters she was disappointed

with council’s decision, saying it abandons property owners on the south side of the road.

Other proposals from past engineering studies were also considered. Further protections, including adding a reservoir and second pump, can be added to the current proposal for the additional cost of just under $1 million.

The new improvements do not require a petition under the Drainage Act and can proceed under the authority of council.

Two other very expensive plans were also presented.

One, with a price tag of $61 million, would have seen rock and groyne features installed on the lakebed to promote beach formation along the shore.

Another, as recommended in the Zuzek Report, would have included

armour rock revetment installed along the shoreline at a cost of more than $83 million.

But the new plan will cost as well. The estimated assessment on agricultural land is $3,500 an acre, equalling $350,000 for a 100-acre farm. However, agricultural property owners will be eligible to apply for a grant from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food and Rural Affairs for a one-third grant to cover costs.

The average assessment on lakefront properties is estimated at $5,180.

Under the current proposal, the road would be left as is.

Council also approved lobbying higher levels of government for funding to assist with the endeavour, following a recommendation from South Kent Coun. Anthony Ceccacci.

Contributed image

In 2020, the municipality released this graphic detailing anticipated flooding should the Erie Shore Drive dyke fail.

Time to support local journalism

Every week about 30 million newspapers are delivered across Canada. More than four out of five people in Canada read newspaper content each week. Why do they read print and digital news sources? The answer is simple: Trust.

Canadians value and trust factbased, fact-checked journalism. Journalists hold the powerful to account. They cover city hall, the courts, and the police. They also keep communities connected by reporting on everything from the high school football team to 100th birthdays.

But real journalism, created by real journalists – rather than by artificial intelligence – costs real money. If we want to sustain it, we must support it. One of the best ways for the local community to support local journalism is to take out an ad. When you buy a newspaper ad – whether print or digital – those dollars stay in the community and allow the publisher to employ journalists. Conversely, when you buy an ad from a web giant, those dollars flow south to California to companies that don’t employ a single journalist.

One thing government can do to keep scarce advertising dollars in Canada is establish tax measures to

incentivise businesses to advertise with private-sector Canadian news outlets and bring fairness to the different tax treatment of advertising purchased from foreign websites.

Governments – municipal, provincial, and federal – also have a role to play when it comes to their own advertising spend. It makes no sense that the federal government was spending almost twice as much on Facebook/Instagram – which are now blocking news in Canada – as they were on all print publications combined. Governments – at all levels – should earmark 25 per cent of their advertising spend toward trusted Canadian news sources. And the federal government should end the “double dip” by eliminating commercial advertising associated with CBC News, the public broadcaster.

National Newspaper Week is a time to reflect on the Champions who report the news without fear or favour, and it’s a time to remember that local news needs to be supported by the community.

• Paul Deegan is president and chief executive officer of News Media Canada. National Newspaper Week runs Oct. 1-7.

Our letters to the editor policy

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or penalty to either party. Liability for errors or non-insertion is limited to the amount paid for the cost of space occupied by the error. Claims of errors must be made prior to the next publication date.

Please stop passing school buses, people!

Editor: I have been a school bus driver now for going on six years. Now that school is back since Sept. 5, I have noticed more people passing school buses no matter what or where they are. I would like them to realize how dangerous this can be. I had a car pass me on Longwoods Road, which is a twolane highway, and came very close to another car coming the other way. It really upset me; thank goodness I didn’t have any children on my bus. I just could not help but think about what could have happened.

Editor: I suppose the new armoured police vehicle will allow the authorities/police to shelter inside to escape the wrath of protesters and the like?

Or perhaps it is so the

So I hope everyone will read this and think about what could be:

I died today.

You see, I couldn’t be late for my meeting at 8.

I saw the yellow bus with its lights flashing and stop sign out. But I was in such a rush. I knew I could pass that bus.

Before I realized it was too late to put on my brakes. All I heard was the horn, screams and such, then the crash of metal on metal. The other car stopped, as it should, but I was late for my meeting at 8.

I lost my life today along with the lives I took of a

mayor and council can sequester themselves inside it in case another Freedom Convoy should disturb their peace and the nasty truck ers blow their air horns?

father, mother, brother and sister of people I never met, all because I was running late. Now I will always be late, never on time, never to be there again. All because I was in such a rush to pass that yellow school bus. So leave early, never run late. You don’t want to rush and pass a school bus. Please don’t die today, because you think you are late. Leave early if you have to, just think of the other lives you might save or take.

Brenda Coote Chatham-Kent

Unarmed? I bet there are firing ports for personal weapons as on all armoured military vehicles.

Bryan Marino Chatham

Communication breakdown...again

A decision to explore the idea was made by council recently, following a motion put forward by West Kent Coun. Lauren Anderson after she raised concerns in the wake of a recent fire at the Wheatley water treatment plant that triggered the boil water advisories.

Anderson said “better communication is never a bad thing,” adding she learned some of the affected residents remained unaware of the threat.

“I think there’s always room for improvement and it definitely warrants the conversation, especially when we’re in a time where the best communication possible is needed. I had several people that were saying they didn’t even know about the boil water advisory until several days later – despite us having ample effort to get communication out there,” she said.

Anderson said it’s important for the municipality to look at some sort of “mass advisory” system and it should be done as soon as possible.

The motion calls on administration to look into methods such as a text messaging system, an automated phone service, a subscription system, among other possibilities.

The action by council highlights

Our offer X

2 eggs

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the challenges raised by the federal government’s introduction of Bill C-18, which asks tech giants Meta and Google to compensate Canadian news outlets when the tech mega corporations using content generated by those media outlets. The bill has prompted an across-the-board ban by Meta – which operates Facebook – to stop allowing Canadian news agencies to share content on their platforms.

The Bill C-18 issue has led to a dearth of information available to members of the public who typically rely on platforms such as Facebook to access and share emergency information.

Municipal CAO Michael Duben said he supported the motion, but noted there’s no single answer to the issue at present.

“We’re always looking at ways that we can communicate with as many people as possible,” Duben told council, adding that an electronic subscription method would require people to sign up.

“Even if people do agree to be part of it, we’re still going to have to find other ways to communicate and cover as much ground as we can,” Duben said. “I support this idea. If it’s not for a boil water advisory, who knows what’s going to come up in the future? Having some method to get to people is going to be helpful.”

The Bill C-18 standoff has already led to emergency communication issues in Chatham-Kent. Following the fierce Aug. 24 storm, emergency personnel had trouble communicating with residents about the clean-

up, despite their best efforts. Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue Chief Chris Case said that Facebook has been the traditional go-to method of sharing information.

FORM 6

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

SALE OF LAND BY PUBLIC TENDER

The MUNICIPALITY OF CHATHAM-KENT

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 October 24, 2023, at the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Civic Centre, 315 King Street West, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8.

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

Description of Land(s) Minimum Tender Amount

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

1. Roll # 3650-140-006-04100 – PLAN 109 N PT LOT 4. Being 12 Princess St., Blenheim.

P.I.N.00938-0525 (LT)

2. Two parcels - Roll #3650-140-006-67100 - PLAN 109 N PT LOT 23. Being 95 Adelaide St., Blenheim

P.I.N. 00939-0165 (LT) and Roll # 3650-140-006-67200 - PLAN 109 S PT LOT 23. Being Adelaide St., Blenheim. P.I.N. 00939-0166 (LT)

3. Roll # 3650-140-010-13000 – PLAN 398 LOT 8. Being 18370 Erie Shore Dr., Blenheim.

P.I.N. 00938-1237 (LT)

4. Roll # 3650-320-002-10295 – CON 9 PT LOT 13. Being Beech St., Bothwell. P.I.N. 00637-0003 (R)

5. Roll # 3650-420-025-00100 – PLAN 386 LOT 4 PT LOT 3. Being 7 Edna St., Chatham.

P.I.N. 00522-0241 (LT)

6. Roll # 3650-420-033-09400 – PLAN 521 LOT 31. Being 12 Siskind Crt., Chatham.

P.I.N. 00533-0044 (LT)

7. Roll # 3650-442-004-05300 – PLAN 119 LOT 55. Being 35 Hiram St., Wallaceburg.

P.I.N. 00576-0041 (LT)

8. Roll # 3650-443-008-07204 – PT LT 1 CON 18 CHATHAM; PT RDAL BTN CON 18 & 19 CHATHAM CLOSED BY 88689, 96641; PT LT 1 CON 19 CHATHAM AS IN CH23911, LYING SE OF FORCED RD KNOWN AS RIVER ROAD, EXCEPT 241328, DESCRIPTION MAY NOT BE ACCEPTABLE IN FUTURE AS IN CH23911; CHATHAM-KENT. Being Beattie St., Wallaceburg.

P.I.N. 00760-0103 (LT)

$7,736.19

$12,929.04

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 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

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

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

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

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

Name of Municipality or Board

Chatham 595 St.Clair

519 351-3333 $11 coffee

Amy McLellan, Manager Revenue or Matthew Torrance, Deputy Tresasurer

Municipality of Chatham-Kent

315 King Street West, P O Box 640, Chatham, Ontario N7M 5K8www.chatham-kent.ca

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

Water plant to be down a year or more

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

It’s early on in the process, but the general manager of Chatham Kent’s Public Utilities Commission said the Wheatley Water Treatment Plant will be down for at least a year.

As of press time, it also meant extending Chatham-Kent Public Health’s current boil water advisory for affected residents for the time being.

However, an emergency supply of bottled water began being brought into the communities as a precautionary measure late last week.

At the regular PUC meeting Sept. 20, Tim Sunderland asked for the public’s patience as the commis-

sion deals with the aftermath of a serious fire at the facility Sept 13.

Sunderland said there are many “mechanical pieces” that have to come together before the damage can be repaired, including ordering a new desk-sized pump, which could take anywhere from 12 to 18 months to arrive.

“The heat and smoke damage is extensive,” Sunderland told the commission, adding that while the fire was contained to the generator room, the impact is significant, and every plastic or epoxy part must be examined.

Plus, Sunderland said, the plant’s entire electrical system will need to be

pulled, tested and reinstalled.

Due to safety concerns, workers have been unable to get inside the building to even begin to assess the damage, as it hasn’t yet been deemed safe to enter.

According to Sunderland, the boil water advisory comes as the result of low pressure created when the plant went down.

But thanks to a collaboration with the municipalities of Leamington and Lakeshore, water continues to flow into the Chatham-Kent, keeping up the supply.

“The systems are built to interconnect,” Sunderland explained, noting water from the other

plants helps pressurize the system.

Concerns about the long wait to fix the problem were also raised at the meeting.

West Kent Coun. Lauren Anderson, a Wheatley resident, said she understood the lengthy wait, but wants to make sure residents are kept up-todate on the situation as it unfolds.

comprehensive media information campaign.

system is safe before removing it.

“Once we stabilize the water supply, which we are working to do now, we will be able to test the water with accurate and repeatable results.”

Sunderland said the PUC is looking at different ways to address the problem and bulk water haulers have been provided for residents in Tilbury and Wheatley. Flats of bottled water are also available.

“We want to be confident when we lift it,” he added. “We don’t want to be going back and forth. Once we stabilize the water supply, which we are working to do now, we will be able to test the water with accurate and repeatable results.”

That concern led Anderson to bring forward a motion to council earlier in the week that would see the municipality create an improved public information plan and possibly a

A mobile water treatment facility to temporarily replace Wheatley’s plant may also be part of the solution, Sunderland told the meeting.

As for keeping the boil water advisory in place, Sunderland said the PUC and public health want to be absolutely certain the

The current boil water advisory asks affected residents to bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute to ensure it is safe.

The PUC is also asking residents of Wheatley and Tilbury and other customers served by the south water treatment plant; including Blenheim, Merlin, Coatsworth, Shrewsbury, Rondeau and Erieau; to conserve water until further notice.

“The heat and smoke damage is extensive.”

- PUC’s Tim

Sunderland

- PUC’s Tim Sunderland

Cell 519-784-7653

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Impressive ranch with 3br, 2 baths, updated kitchen and a large backyard. Call Anna-Marie.

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Pride of ownership. 2br, 2.5 baths, full finished basement. Call Deb Rhodes.

Move in ready ranch style. 4br, 3 baths, 2nd kitchen in basement. Call Jeff Godreau.

One floor living. 2br, 1 bath, waterfront for fishing or a boat ride. Call Katherine Rankin.

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Overlooking golf course. 4br, 3.5 baths, large pantry, rec room. Call Krista Mall. 943 MARINERS, ERIEAU NEW PRICE $850,000

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Waterfront property. 3br, 1.5 baths, large garage, very unique. Call Krista Mall.

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Bakery’s effort helps cat adoptions

By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative

The Ridgetown Independent

A new Thamesville bakery cooked up an idea leading to more than100 kittens and cats being adopted in August.

And on top of that, owners of Bent Tin Baked Goods donated $13,860 to the Chatham-Kent Pet and Wildlife Rescue.

Misty and Mike Bass, who share a deep love for animals, came up with the idea to sponsor an adoption initiative for August through their Bent Tin Baked Goods. Citizens could adopt a kitten or cat for $50, as the Bass family covered the

rest of the $160 adoption fee. This led to 126 kittens and cats getting adopted during the month – and the Bass family happily paid the remaining $110 fee per cat for a total donation of $13,860.

The Bass’ daughter Ava, 11, also contributed financially by donating more than $200 she made in a lemonade stand in front of the family bakery earlier this summer.

“We thought this was just a fantastic idea,” said Myriam Armstrong, PAWR director. “When I told them how many cats were adopted, they were blown away and happy to follow up on their promise.”

“We are immensely grateful for their aid. Their commitment to the welfare of animals is truly remarkable,” Armstrong said of the Bass family.

The Bass family moved to the Thamesville area two years ago and opened their Bent Tin Baked Goods at 87 London St. last November.

One of the first things the family did when they arrived from Alberta –even before looking for a site for their business – was look into local cat shelters where they could volunteer their time, as they did in Red Deer.

Continued on page 11

Patrick Pinsonneault

519-360-0141

Darren Hart

226-627-8580

Carson Warrener

519-809-2856

519-784-4348

(Realtor)

Marco Acampora

(Broker) (Realtor) (Realtor)

11332 River Line $4.5M

262 Riverview Dr $1.2M 4704 Riverside $700,000

259 Wellington $1.135M900 Park Ave W $2.2M 4 ac

51 Windfield $649,000

7748 Queens Ln $1.95M 4.7 Ac

Unit 2 317 Grand $5500/m

175 Llydican $634,000

49 Acres Union Line $1.75m

4 Crawford -M's Bay $2M

35 Clara $599,900 17 Renaissance $719,000 4 Opal Court $699,999

Contributed image

Misty and Michael Bass, owners of Bent Tin Baked Goods in Thamesville, pictured with Myriam Armstrong, left, from PAWR. The Bass’s initiative led to 164 cat adoptions in August and a $13,860 donation from their business to PAWR.

Too shallow for Theodore Too Commitment leads to spike in adoptions

Continued from page 10

This led the family to the PAWR animal shelter in Chatham, where they performed a number of voluntary duties.

The Basses were so shocked at the number of cats that come into PAWR regularly that they began fostering felines at their rural Thamesville home to ease the burden on the shelter.

The Basses built 15 catios, enclosed patios where cats can live and move about freely.

They have fostered as many as 60 cats at a time. When both the shelter and their own catios were maxed out, the Basses came up with the idea for the August adoption cam-

paign.

“Just knowing there was no more space at the shelter and knowing we couldn’t take in anymore is ultimately why we decided to sponsor adoptions,” Misty said.

“We thought more people could possibly afford to adopt and give cats a good home, and we would kick in the remainder of the fee.”

Along with giving so many cats a loving home, the Basses’ adoption campaign also helped lighten the burden on the shelter, allowing staff to focus on their mission of rescuing and caring for more needy animals.

“This partnership not only resulted in many

adoptions but also raised awareness about the importance of adopting shelter animals,” Armstrong said.

Armstrong said the shelter handles about 3,000 cats a year, as the expense of housing as many as 300 at a time, along with the cost of vet care, has skyrocketed.

Any business or individual interested in this sponsorship initiative and helping more local animals find homes can stop at the PAWR animal shelter, 405 Park Ave. E. in Chatham (226-996-9969 or visit www.pawr.org for more information.)

PAWR also welcomes anyone interested in adopting a pet to visit.

Contribued image

Theodore Too and crew stopped by Erieau recently. However, it turned out to be a oneday visit, as shallow conditions at the entrance to Rondeau Bay led to the tugboat instead being docked at Pelee Island.

Saturday, September 30, 2022

A day to listen, learn, and celebrate Aboriginal culture

Phyllis’ Story

“I went to the Mission for one year. I had just turned 6 years old. We never had very much money, and there was no welfare, but somehow my granny managed to buy me a new outfit to go to the Mission School in. I remember going to Robinson’s store and picking out a shiny orange shirt. It had eyelets and lace, and I felt so pretty in that shirt and excited to be going to school! Of course, when I got to the Mission, they stripped me, and took away my clothes, including the orange shirt. I never saw it again, except on other kids. I didn’t understand why they wouldn’t give it back to me, it was mine! Since then the colour orange has always reminded me of that and how my feelings didn’t matter, how no one cared and how I felt like I was worth nothing. I finally get it, that the feeling of worthlessness and insignificance, ingrained in me from my first day at the mission, affected the way I lived my life for many years . . . I want my orange shirt back!

Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, Dog Creek, BC

Join us and hundreds of others across Canada and wear an orange shirt on Saturday, September 30th to honour the children who survived the Indian Residential Schools and remember those that didn’t. Every Child Matters. We will wear orange shirts in recognition of the harm the residential school system did to children’s sense of self-esteem and well-being, and as an affirmation of our commitment to ensure that everyone matters.

Orange Shirt Day is a legacy of the St. Joseph Mission (SJM) residential school commemoration event held in Williams Lake, BC, Canada, in May 2013. It grew out of Phyllis’ story, and it has become an opportunity to keep the discussion on all aspects of residential schools happening annually.

The date was chosen because it is the time of year that children were taken from their homes to residential schools, and because it is an opportunity to set the stage for anti-racism and anti-bullying policies for the coming school year. Orange Shirt Day is also an opportunity for First Nations, local governments, schools and communities, to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come.

Wearing an orange shirt and promoting the slogan, Every Child Matters, is an affirmation of our commitment to raise awareness of the residential school experience and to ensure that every child matters as we focus on our hope for a better future in which children are empowered to help each other. Let’s not forget the children but honour them on September 30th.

Pinning awareness

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

A total of 150,000 and counting.

That’s how many tiny Takwihleew orange shirt pins have been created to commemorate the lives of Indigenous children who perished or were harmed in Canada’s residential schools.

The idea was conceived by Lana Parenteau of the Lunaapeew People of Delaware Nation at Moraviantown. When the Sixties’ Scoop survivor heard about the discovery of 215 children’s bodies at the former Kamloops Indian residential school in 2021, it hit her hard.

Parenteau came up with the idea of the pins with her granddaughter Sky. Together at the kitchen ta-

ble, the pair made 30 pins, with 15 going to the United Way of Chatham-Kent, and 15 to Family Service Kent.

The rest as they say is history, with hundreds of community members, schools and businesses pitching in to make the shirt pins. The small orange emblems are decorated with feathers and a small piece of moosehide that represents Indigenous men and boys standing up against violence towards women and children.

Parenteau said the pins start conversations and raise awareness. She’s led dozens of workshops about the pins, both in person and virtually, with the movement expanding to Montreal, Calgary and Ottawa.

Continued on page 14

The Respect Revolution

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Lana Parenteau, founder of the Takwihleew orange shirt pin initiative and Come Together CK executive director display 215 of the pins created to commemorate the lives of the children who died, as well as those who survived Indian residential schools. The effort was started when the bodies of 215 children were discovered at a former residential school in Kamloops B.C.

10,000 people making the pins

Continued from page 13

Thanks to a collaboration with Come Together CK, pin kits with all the materials have been created for those who want to show their support. An estimated 10,000 people have participated in making the pins.

Takwihleew means “come together” in the Lenape language.

While Orange Shirt Day

was originally created to mark National Truth and Reconciliation Day on Sept. 30, beginning in B.C. in 2013, the idea gained momentum following the discovery in Kamloops.

Like the children themselves, Parenteau said each pin is unique.

“There’s no right way or wrong way to make them,” she explained. “So many

ideas have poured in and everybody’s idea is their own.”

It’s Parenteau’s hope that Canada’s Orange Shirt Day, which carries the motto “Every Child Matters” becomes a year-round movement.

“I think it’s important it’s not just one day a year,” Parenteau said. “We all share the work of truth and reconciliation together. It’s our history, our learning, our

Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent Municipal Class Environmental

Assessment

Water and Wastewater Master Plan (Approach #1) Notice of Public Information Centre #3

The Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, through its consultant AECOM has initiated a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) Master Plan study to develop strategies for water and wastewater servicing to accommodate existing service areas and future growth.

The study is documenting existing conditions, providing population forecasts, complete water, and wastewater modeling, engaging key stakeholders and the general public and based on the most recent versions of the Chatham-Kent Official Plan, Secondary Plans and Comprehensive Review documents, evaluating potential short- and long-term alternative water and wastewater servicing strategies over the next 30 years at 5, 10, 20, and 30 year intervals, including high level costs.

Public Information Centre (PIC) #3

A third PIC will be held for the study to summarize work completed since PIC #1, the alternative water and wastewater servicing alternatives (including their evaluation) to address the problem and opportunity statement, the preliminary recommended water and wastewater servicing projects including estimated costs and implementation timing to meet Chatham-Kents future requirements and describe the next steps in the process.

This PIC will be held in an online format with a narrated video and is scheduled to be available for viewing on September 25th 2023 with the comment period closing on October 9th,2023. The information presented at PIC #3 will be available for the duration of the study. To access the PIC materials, please visit the ‘Lets Talk’ Chatham-Kent at https://www.letstalkchathamkent.ca/chatham-kent-water-and-wastewater-master-plan

How to get involved

The PUC invites anyone with an interest in the study to provide feedback and help inform the decision-making process. To provide feedback, request more information or if you want to be placed on our mailing list for updates, please contact us at:

Dhana Niriella, PhD., P.Eng, P.E.

Project Manager

Chatham-Kent PUC

226-312-2025 x4338

dhanan@chatham-kent.ca

Paul Adams, CPT Environmental Planner

AECOM

519-963-5873

Paul.adams2@aecom.com

Additional comments and questions can be received throughout the project and will be further encouraged following PIC#3.

With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record of the Study.

This Notice was Issued on September 11, 2023.

healing.”

The cultural genocide perpetrated by the government affected Parenteau’s life deeply. Her mother went to an Indian Residential School in Mount Elgin, and her brothers went to the Mohawk Residential School in Brantford.

As a child, she was adopted by a white family, but ran away and was homeless and addicted on the streets of Vancouver. But Parenteau recovered and now uses her experience to help others.

She was hired at Chatham-Kent’s first Indigenous Peer Navigator two-and-a-half years ago, but funding for the position ran out in March of this year. That hasn’t stopped her work with others.

Brent Wilken, executive director of Come Together CK, said the rea-

son behind the success of the project is “Lana’s openness.

“So many people have become a part of it because they feel comfortable,” Wilken said. “They feel they can help make a change.”

The Truth and Reconciliation Movement in Chatham-Kent continues with the sale of Every Child Matters T-shirts, with profits going to programs for Indigenous children and youth. Booths distributing pins will also be set up at various businesses, including one at Walmart on Sept. 28.

Despite the ongoing publicity about Canada’s Orange Shirt Day, Parenteau said some people still don’t know about the impact of residential schools and she hopes the pins will continue to raise awareness about the issue.

New plan for old school

Chatham’s St. Vincent’s Catholic School, sitting vacant for several years, is about to become a care centre for the elderly.

At a recent planning meeting, Chatham-Kent council approved rezoning for the property to allow a 36-unit development to go forward.

Permission was granted to a company called Chatham Seniors Care

Inc. for the proposed development located at the intersection of McNaughton Avenue and Prince Albert Road, that includes severing the building and 2.62-acres of property from the 6.5-acre parcel of land. As part of the agreement, the owners will undertake landscaping and add parking spaces.

Currently, there are no official plans to develop the remainder of the property.

The Chatham Voice

South Wheatley plans continue

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Despite setbacks, including a devastating explosion in the downtown, an ambitious plan to develop Wheatley is moving forward.

At a recent planning meeting, the draft plan of the Imagine Wheatley South Wheatley Secondary Plan was unveiled in a presentation by Amy Farkas, a senior planner with Dillon Consulting, the company retained to work

on the proposal.

“South Wheatley has the potential to grow and develop,”

Farkas told council in a presentation, adding the potential was recognized by the previous C-K council, leading to the launch of the Imagine Wheatley land use plan.

“South Wheatley has the potential to grow and develop. The intent of the Imagine Wheatley project is to set a 20-plus year vision for the development of the area and to guide public and private investment.”

“The intent of the Imagine Wheatley project is to set a 20-plus year vision for the development of the area and to guide public and private investment,” Farkas said.

The Imagine plan includes significant environmental protections, Farkas said, as well the develop-

ment of a commercial area, employment opportunities, public park space, all designed with an emphasis on good quality of life. Extensive stakeholder engagement has gone into the Imagine Wheatley initiative, Farkas noted, including plenty of consultation with the Wheatley Recovery Task Force that was created in the aftermath of the August 2021 explosion.

The Imagine Wheatley secondary plan is bounded to the north and east by the western shoreline

New Availability for FALL 2023!

of the west branch of Two Creeks, to the west by Erie Street South, and to the south by Detroit Line. West Kent Coun. Lauren Anderson said she is looking forward to the unfolding of the plan.

“When we have a town, our town, to see it struggling quite a bit, to see that you’re still predicting growth there, we have

something really fantastic to look forward to,” Anderson said. “I think that will definitely lift the spirits of those of us who live in Wheatley and it’s something I’m definitely happy to support moving forward.”

A final version of the Imagine Wheatley plan will be presented at a future council meeting.

SHOP LOCAL. SAVE LOCAL

Park Place Chatham has some new availability for Fall 2023! Featuring all-inclusive rental pricing, in-suite laundry, suitecontrolled thermostats, and high end amenities like the saltwater pool and fitness center.

A new selection of 1 bedroom, 1 bedroom + den, and 2 bedroom units are coming available soon!

Did you miss out on the luxury rental building in 2022? Don’t delay and call today for more information!

- Dillon’s Amy Farkas

Mental Illness

Awareness Week October 1st - 7th

Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW) is an annual national public education campaign to educate and inform Canadians about the realty of mental illness. Through our advocacy efforts, we envision a Canada where everyone has timely access to mental health programs, services and supports without barriers.

What are the signs/ symptoms of Mental Illness?

Symptoms of mental illness can range from loss of motivation and energy, changed sleep patterns, extreme mood swings, disturbances in thought or perception, or overwhelming obsessions or fears. Mental illness interferes with relationships and affects a person’s ability to function on a day-to-day basis, often leading to social isolation.

(https://toronto.cmha.ca/ understanding-mental-illness/)

Fast Facts about Mental Illness

• Everyone has mental health and will experience challenges regarding their mental well-being, but not everyone will experience a mental illness.

• In any given year, 1 in 5 people in Canada will personally experience a mental illness

• Approximately 20% of Canadian youth are affected by a mental illness or disorder

• Mental illness affects people of all ages, education levels, income levels, and cultures

• 4,012 Canadians died by suicide in 2019.

• Stigma and discrimination attached to mental illnesses present a serious barrier not only to diagnosis and treatment but also access to employment, housing, and other basic necessities.

About CMHA Lambton Kent

CMHA Lambton Kent provides services and facilitates access to the resources people require to maintain and improve mental health. Our efforts promote community integration, build resilience, and support recovery from mental illness and addictions. Contact CMHA: Canadian Mental Health Association 519-436-6100

Website: www.lambtonkent.cmha.ca

Crisis Line Sarnia – 1-800-307-4319

• Crisis Line Chatham – 1-866-299-7447

• Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario, Chatham-Kent (Ages 12-25): 519-437-6329

Different types of mental illness include:

Anxiety Disorders – are all related to anxiety. They may include uncontrollable worry, strong fears around everyday things or situations, unwanted thoughts, panic attacks, etc. Anxiety, panic disorder and phobias are examples.

Mood Disorders – affect the way a person feels. When a person experiences a mood disorder, they may feel sad, hopeless, tired or numb for long periods of time. At times, some people experience an unusually “high’ mood and feel powerful and energetic, but this can also create problems. Depression and bipolar disorder are examples of mood disorders.

Eating Disorders – are complicated illnesses that are often a way to cope with difficult problems or regain a sense of control. These may include restricting how much food a person eats, bingeing, or purging food. Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are examples of eating disorders.

Psychotic Disorders – is a health problem that affects how people understand what is real and what is not real. People may sense things that are not real or strongly believe things that cannot be real. Schizophrenia is one example of a psychotic disorder.

Personality Disorders – are patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that may last for a long time and create challenges in a person’s life. Personality disorders can affect the way people understand and view themselves and others and cope with problems. Borderline personality disorder is one example of a personality disorder.

Protesters march on Civic Centre

The Chatham Voice

Protestors took to the streets of Chatham Sept. 20 as part of the Canada-wide #1 Million March for Children.

A group of about 200 gathered in Tecumseh Park before marching down King Street to the Chatham-Kent Civic Centre around 11 a.m.

Chants of “Leave our kids alone” and “Hands off our kids” rang out during the event.

On their way back to the park, participants passed by the Chatham-Kent Public Library. However, a small group of counter-protestors were also on hand to defend the rights of the 2SLGTBQ+ community. The group of young people also brandished

signs, mainly defending the rights of trans youth and children and anti-hate, outside the Civic Centre.

Organizers say the goal of the #1 Million March for Children was to rally against what they call “gender ideology” in schools, saying children are being exposed to inappropriate content about sexuality.

The movement is also against school policies that do not require parental consent for a young person to change their gender or pronouns. Many counter-protestors say that transgendered youth should not be outed to parents by their teachers.

Peter Zubyk/The Chatham Voice Adults and children march along King Street recently as part of the #1 Million March for children.

Aging conference set for Oct. 12

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

The CK Celebration of Older Adults is hosting a free event, with lunch included, for seniors next month.

The Celebration of Older Adults: Aging Well Conference will take place Oct. 12 at Hidden Hills Golf and Country Club on Highway 40 north of Chatham.

One of the event organizers, Marjorie Crew, said the conference runs from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and features short seminars on a variety of topics.

Those include wills and estate planning; fraud and scam education; aging in place; yoga; and how to downsize your home and belongings.

Local professionals will provide the information,

and there will be other community service groups and organizations on hand as well.

Crew said the topics focus on key issues that impact people’s lives.

“We have all different types of help, from planning your will and learning about powers of attorney – how to protect yourself as you age and being prepared for things in life where you may

not have the capacity to make decisions at some point,” she said. “Downsizing – what do you get rid of? It’s about how you move into a smaller home. Sometimes you don’t want to get rid of mementoes, but you put them in boxes for your kids and they don’t want it.”

In terms of scams and frauds, the seminar is put on by Chatham-Kent

police, and Crew said seniors are heavily targetted by scammers.

“Seniors are always being victimized,” she said.

Information on aging in place could help seniors continue to live independently for longer.

Crew said there is capacity for about 160 participants.

“This will be an interactive, fun morning. It’s not your typical seniors’

expo,” she said.

If anyone is in need of transportation to and from the event, they can call Family Service Kent at 519-354-6221, ext. 242. Crew said while the event is free, you do have to register through EventBrite.com. If someone had difficulty navigating across the Internet, they can call Crew at 519-354-6221, ext. 241 for assistance.

12 icons to be added to walk of fame

The Chatham Voice

The names of 12 local cultural icons are about to be added to the 2023 Chatham-Kent Arts and Culture Heroes Walk of Fame.

The second annual event is designed to recognize the contributions of leading citizens in arts and culture.

Dan White, chair of the

Geddes

The Chatham Voice

A well-known community activist is stepping up to become the United Way of Chatham-Kent’s

Chatham-Kent Arts & Culture Network, the group that founded the initiative, said the network is thrilled to announce the second class of inductees.

A special ceremony for the inductions will be held on Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. at the Chatham Armoury. Doors open at 6 p.m. The event is open to the public but attendees must

RSVP in advance to ckartsandculturenetwork@ gmail.com.

The new inductees cover six categories. They include:

Visual Arts

• Alexander M. Fleming

– painter – Chatham

• Larry Towell – photographer and photojournalist – Wallaceburg

Performing Arts

• Ron Pardo – comic im-

pressionist and voice actor – Pardoville

• David Farquhar – audio producer and entrepreneur – Chatham

Music

• Michelle Wright – singer and songwriter – Merlin

• Chatham Concert Band – orchestra – Chatham-Kent

Dance

• Lisa Lester – dancer,

choreographer and cultural entrepreneur – Chatham

• Eelunaapeewi Lahkeewiit Pow Wow – Indigneous dance – Delaware on the Thames First Nation at Moraviantown

Literary Arts

• Archibald Lampman –poet – Morpeth

• Lori Lansens – author and screenwriter – Chatham

Cultural Builders

• John Beardall – broadcasters and entrepreneur – Chatham

• Kiwanis Music Festival – youth music development – Chatham-Kent

The Heroes Wall of Fame oversight committee include committee chair James Snyder, Christie Coatsworth, George Sims, Art Stirling and Dane White.

named temp boss at United Way of C-K

(UWoCK) interim CEO.

Maureen Geddes, founder of the Cultural Coalition of Chatham-Kent, brings a wealth of experience to the job, working

on equity, inclusion and justice issues for most of her career.

The Chatham resident joined the UWoCK board of directors in June of this

year. She resigned at a special meeting Sept. 19; and the board appointed her as interim CEO Sept. 20.

Geddes holds a master’s

degree in business administration from the University of Windsor and a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours.) Her community efforts over the years

have been wide ranging, supporting many causes and advocating for others.

Geddes replaces Barbara Palace, who recently resigned.

WE HAVE ExpANdEd OUR STORAGE SpAcE: Large lot, lots of space to manoeuvre. Ideal for large motor homes, large 5th wheel, large boats with trailers. Assigned gate card and parking spot. 24/7 access, all year round . . NEVER BLOCKED IN!! Security cameras and lights.

For the love of quilting in C-K

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

For two and a half decades, members of the Chatham-Kent Quilters’ Guild have been stitching warmth

into people’s lives, and learning along the way.

The guild is celebrating its 25th anniversary on the weekend, with high-profile

Jenny Doan of the Missouri Star Quilt Company speak-

ing at a dinner Friday night, and hosting a workshop the next day.

Karen Pynenbrouck, chair of the 25th anniversary committee, said a key mission of the guild is to make and

Notice of Public Meeting to Consider Zoning By-law Amendments

Take Notice that the Council of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent will consider amendments to the Chatham-Kent Zoning By-law, under Section 34 of the Planning Act, R.S.O.1990, c.P.13, concerning the entire Municipality of Chatham-Kent

And Take Further Notice that the proposed amendments will be considered on the date, and at the time and place shown below:

Date: Monday, October 23, 2023

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Location: Municipality of Chatham-Kent Council Chambers

Address: 315 King Street West, Chatham ON

Large Scale Greenhouses in Proximity to the Village Residential (VR) Zone

A Zoning By-law Amendment pertaining to the regulation of Large Scale Greenhouses in proximity to lands zoned Village Residential (VR) is proposed that would introduce a new regulation under Section 4.10 – Greenhouse Farms (Large Scale). The amendment would introduce new land use regulation applicable to greenhouses over 5 acres in area proposed to be located up to 750 metres from lands zoned Village Residential (VR)

The regulated area for all large-scale greenhouse farm buildings and structures from all Residential Low Density (RL), Residential Medium Density (RM) and Residential High Density (RH) shall continue to be 1,500 m, and all other Residential and Deferred Development Zones will continue to be 300 m.

Agri-tourism use in the Agricultural (A1) Zone

A Zoning By-law Amendment is proposed that would introduce Agri-tourism as a permitted use within the Agricultural (A1) zone. The proposed definition is as follows:

“Agri-Tourism Use” means an activity or use that is accessory to a farm operation, and which promotes and educates the public about farming and agricultural activities. Such activities shall have a direct relationship to the agricultural activities on the farm, and may inclu de farm/educational tours, wagon rides or corn mazes, observation and participation in agricultural activities and seasonal festivals that overall benefit from the farm/rural setting.

The proposed use is to be added in addition to all other uses currently permitted within the Agricultural (A1) zone and is intended to allow rural economic development opportunities while maintaining compatibility with agricultural practices As part of the by-law amendment, site regulations regarding the implementation of an Agri-tourism use on an applicable farm are also proposed.

General Housekeeping Amendments

As part of the Agri-tourism Zoning By-law amendment described above, general housekeeping amendment are also being proposed. A full list of items being proposed can be accessed through the contact information listed below.

Information and Providing Comment

For more information about these matters, including information about appeal rights, contact Allison Lambing, Planner I, Planning Services at 519.360.1998 or ckplanning@chatham-kent.ca A full copy of the proposed amendments are available at www.chatham-kent.ca Mail should be directed to Municipality of Chatham-Kent Planning Services, 315 King Street West, Box 640, Chatham ON N7M 5K8.

Dated at the Municipality of Chatham-Kent this 27th day of September, 2023.

donate quilts to various organizations, including ChildCan in London, where a quilt is provided to every child diagnosed with cancer, she said.

“Each year, our guild donates over 100 quilts to them. We donate even more quilts to local residents who are faced with a life-threatening condition, or trauma, such as a house fire,” she said. “Or we donate to new immigrant residents to make them feel welcome, and to various hospitals and nursing homes.”

Pynenbrouck said all of this is done by donation and the work is all completed by volunteers.

“It’s quite the feat.”

get a dozen people,” Pynenbrouck said. “They outgrew their space the first night. That’s how popular it was right from the start.”

The pandemic damaged the guild in terms of membership, but they are back, 114 members strong.

Pynenbrouck said Doan is a YouTube “sensation” when it comes to quilting.

“Each year, our guild donates over 100 quilts to (ChildCan). We donate even more quilts to local residents who are faced with a life-threatening condition, or trauma, such as a house fire.”

- Karen Pynenbrouck

The Chatham-Kent Quilters’ Guild began in 1998 thanks to Joyce Martin-Bruce and Donna Landry. They had wanted to gather together some women and start a quilting bee.

“They started at the W.I.S.H. Centre and put the word out, hoping to

“A lot of the women I talked to who are coming to this...Jenny has taught them how to quilt,” she said. “She taught a lot of us – tips and tricks and things like that.”

Doan’s workshop takes place at St. Paul’s Congregational Church on Park Avenue West. Running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the event will host 60 quilters. The workshop and the dinner, which is for 300 people, are sold out.

The quilters’ guild hosts a workshop every month, or a teaching session of some form, Pynenbrouck said. It also features guest speakers. There are open sew days as well. The guild is always looking for new members. Anyone interested can check out the guild’s Facebook page or ckquiltguild.com. Membership is $50 a year. “There’s always something to learn and you get the camaraderie of other quilters,” Pynenbrouck said. “Everyone’s willing to share their knowledge of quilting.”

Saturday show a salute to Disney

The first Saturdays at 7 at St. Andrew’s concert of the 2023-2024 season will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Walt Disney Company.

This concert, Disney Through the Decades, will be presented at St. Andrew’s United Church in Chatham on Sept. 30 at 7 pm.

For more than a century, the company formed by Walt Disney has created stories that have inspired creators, influenced pop-culture and connected generations across the world. The passion for storytelling has resulted in the greatest stories that live from one generation to the next.

Devon Hansen, director of music at St. Andrew’s, has selected

favourites for a program of solos and duets for which he will provide accompaniment for vocalists from Chatham-Kent and the Windsor-Essex area. They will present classic tunes from shows such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Cinderella, and Aladdin to modern hits such as Frozen.

Performers, to name only a few, will be J.C. Wright, Paige Kosik, Amy Clifford, Andrew Dernyck, Victoria Kimmerly, Mikayla Lozon, Christine Baribeau, Victoria Hoshowsky-Bell and Matt Miazgowicz.

Doors open at 6:30 pm. Donations (suggested $20 per person) will be accepted at the door and will go towards the music program at St. Andrew’s. For further information, visit www.standrewschatham.org/ music.

Saturday to help kick off the Saturdays at 7

80 in 80 display opens

The Chatham-Kent Museum is set to open 80 in 80: 1943-2023, an exhibition to mark 80 years of building and preserving our local history collection.

The exhibition begins Sept. 27. Explore a display of eighty artefacts highlighting the breadth and depth of history to be found in the Chatham-Kent Museum collection. See the Gray-Dort motorcar – certified as Canadian Cultural Property – an authentic Titanic menu card, the fossilized remains of a prehistoric creature, a baseball signed by a member of Chatham Coloured All-Stars team, and more.

Discover more about our local history on the shelves of Out in the Open, a visible artefact storage area in the exhibition galleries of the museum. Visitors can grab a flashlight and peruse almost 5,000 artefacts from the museum’s three-dimensional collection.

The museum is open for drop-in visits Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursday 11

to 7 p.m.

The Chatham Voice

Contributed image

Christine Baribeau is one of the performers slated to sing

2023-24 concert series at St. Andrew’s United Church on Sept. 30.

The Chatham Voice

a.m.

Admission is by donation.

Community Events Fun Stuff

Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Senior Euchre at 1:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

• First Presbyterian Church is holding their Dessert & Fashion Show at 1:00 p.m. Fashions are by Serena’s in Blenheim, ON. Tickets are $10.00. Call for your ticket at 519-352-2313, Ext. 1.

• Get your game on at Chatham Branch of Chatham Kent Public Library! 3:00 to 5:00 pm, teens can stop by the meeting room to play Nintendo Switch, cards, and board games. Bring a friend or make some new ones. No registration required. For teens 12-18 years old. For more information contact the Chatham Branch of the CKPL.

Friday, Sept. 29, 2023:

• Adult Colouring at the CKPL Chatham Branch Community Living Café. 2:00pm-4:00pm. Are you looking for a creative outlet? Come and connect with people of all ages and skill levels while colouring away the stress of the day. Come alone or bring a friend. No registration required, come and go as you please.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am– 9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Supper served 4:00 – 6:00pm. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are liver & onions or fish & chips, $13.00. Take out is also available by calling 519-3518733 or 519-351-5639. Fun Darts s at 7:00 p.m. Everyone Welcome.

• Fabulous Friday Fare at the Merlin Legion!! 2 Stanley St., Merlin. Join us for Poor Person’s dinner of scrumptious spaghetti for only $10. Join us for a great night!!

• Tilbury Leisure Centre invites you to play Euchre with us at 1:00pm Fridays (10 Canal St. West) Everyone is Welcome!!

• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St is a Chicken Parmesan dinner with spaghetti, caesar salad and garlic toast. Dine ins $12 and pickups

$13. Please call daily from 1-4pm to order at 519-3528291. Everyone welcome.

Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023:

• Morning Breakfast Program at First Presbyterian Church (corner of Fifth St. and Wellington). A delicious and nutritious breakfast served free of charge from 9:30am10:30am. Take out only.

• Kent Coin Club Fall coin show at the Active Lifestyle Center (9am-3pm). 20 Merritt Ave Chatham. 30 Dealer tables both selling and buying coins, tokens, paper money and bullion. Free admission and parking. For more info contact President Paul Robb (probb1@cogeco. ca) (289-228-2817).

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. There will be a meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 3:00 p.m. –5:30 p.m. Entertainment by Cornerstone from 4:30-9:30. Come check out our menu. Everyone Welcome.

• Saturdays at 7 at St. Andrew’s United Church, 85 William Street S., Chatham presents Disney Through the Decades. This concert celebrates 100 years of the Walt Disney Company with a program that brings to life the music and stories that have captured the hearts of audiences for generations. Donations at the doors (suggested $20) which open at 6:30 pm. All are welcome! For further information call 519-352-0010 or www.standrewschatham.org/music.

• Faux Flower Arranging at the Chatham Retirement Resort. Friends and family welcome! Come out at 1:45pm and enjoy a flower arranging program. We will have a variety of summer and fall faux flowers. You will be able to create a beautiful centerpiece to take home. Please RSVP 519-351-7777 ext. 526.

• Kent Coin Club 53rd Anual Coin Show at the Active Lifestyle Centre, 20 Merritt Ave, Chatham. 9:00am-3:00pm. 30 dealers’ tables who buy, sell and trade. Club display and door prizes, Canadian and World coins, paper money, tokens, gold, silver & more! Free Admission. Food

and refreshments available for purchase at the show. Plenty of free parking.

• If you have completed jigsaw puzzles trade them for a new-to-you puzzle at Chatham-Kent Public Library’s (CKPL) Jigsaw Puzzle Swap!

The Chatham Branch of CKPL will host a jigsaw puzzle swap on Saturday, September 30 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm in the Chatham Branch Meeting Room. Participants will receive a voucher for each puzzle they drop off during library hours from September 25 to 29. Puzzles must have no missing pieces and be in good condition. Puzzles must be 100+ pieces. Vouchers can be redeemed to “buy” a new puzzle on Saturday, September 30. Only voucher holders will be allowed to participate in the Jigsaw Puzzle Swap. Any puzzles that are not selected by the end of the event will be put in the Chatham Branch Book Sale, where the proceeds will go towards future programs. To find out more about programs and events at Chatham-Kent Public Library, visit www.ckpl.ca.

• Your number is being called for our Serving in Hope Bingo at St. Michael’s Parish Hall, 26 George Street, Ridgetown, from 1pm-4pm, doors open at 12:30. Win with bingo prizes, silent auction, 50/50 draw. Join in the fun! Everyone Welcome! (Cash Only). Sponsored by Society of Saint Vincent de Paul serving those in need.

Sunday, October 1, 2023:

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

• Sombra Museum Presents . . . Randell Barn Open House from 1pm-4pm. Enjoy a guided tour of a restored century barn, view tools of the era and purchase your 2024 Barns of Sombra Township calendar! 648 Lambton Line. For info contact 519-8923982 or sombramuseum@ st.clairtownship.ca.

• Old Fashioned Hymn Sing at Holy Trinity St. Paul’s Anglican Church,81 Selkirk Street, Chatham, Ontario at 2:30pm. Do you love singing hymns? Then this is the

event for you! An informal afternoon music program of singing your favourite hymns. Following the program there will be a dessert reception. If you require additional information please call the church at 519-354-1072 or e-mail holytrinit2@outlook.com.

• Jamboree at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 1-5pm. Come enjoy the music and dance to the sounds of Hired Hand, $5. Everyone welcome.

Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023:

• Chess Club at Chatham Branch of CKPL. 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm. Drop in program. Great opportunity to learn new strategies by playing with different players. All ages and all skill levels are welcome.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Euchre at 1:00 and evening Shuffleboard and Euchre starting at 7:00p.m. Everyone is welcome.

Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2023:

• 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. We have fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Senior Euchre at 1:00pm. Ladies Auxiliary will be holding their monthly bingo. Sale of cards starting at 6:00pm and Bingo at 7:00. Everyone is welcome.

Are you affected by someone else’s drinking? Al-anon can help! Call - leave message519-350-3462

Alcoholics Anonymous, we can help! Information Line 519-360-5246.

Submit your coming events to bruce@chathamvoice.com or michelle@chathamvoice.com

CLUES ACROSS

1. Outsourcing (abbr.)

4. Post

8. German city on edge of Black Forest

10. “__, but goodie”

11. Spiced stew

12. Passionately

13. Monetary units

15. Group of living organisms

16. Organic compound derived from ammonia

17. High honors

18. 5-year-olds’ classes

21. Swiss river

22. Old woman

23. Cash machine

24. A way to soak

25. Hair product

26. Deride

27. “The Blonde Bombshell”

34. Cause to become insane

35. Bluish greens

36. Supported with money

37. Type of equation

38. Court officials

39. Indian god

40. Rids

41. Leak slowly through

42. Units of ionizing radiation

43. Midway between south and southeast

CLUES DOWN

1. Native of Slovakia

2. Deli meat

3. Fibrous substance in fungi

4. Cutting

5. Vedder and Van Halen

6. Horror comic novelist

7. Rulers of Tunis

9. Shaped like a circle

10. Make a pig of oneself

12. Aphorism

14. Witness

15. Single Lens Reflex

17. Freshwater North American fish

19. Nautical ropes

20. Leg (slang)

23. Pokes holes in 24. Moved quickly on foot

25. Fix-it shops

26. Type of bread

27. Repaired

28. Synthetic diamond (abbr.)

29. Type of drug (abbr.)

30. German city along the Rhine

31. Animal disease

32. Martini necessities

33. Get away from 34. Village in Mali

36. Djibouti franc

Puzzle answers can be found on page 23

Classifieds

Obituary In Memoriam

Humphrey: Frederick Whitney B.A. M.Ed

A resident of St. Andrew’s Residence, Chatham, Fred Humphrey passed away at the Chatham-Kent Hospice with his family at his side on September 21, 2023 at the age of 89.

Born in Chatham, Fred was the son of the late Frederick and Mabel (née Gray) Humphrey.

Beloved husband of 42 years to the late Barbara Morrow (née Martin). Cherished father to Fred and Yvonne Humphrey, Ann Marie and Edmund Piesz, the late Marybeth Humphrey; step-father to Diane Morrow and the late Clarke Morrow. Proud grandfather to Emily and Craig, Katie and Trish, Amelia and Chris, Lydia and Aidan, Maxine and Mike, Marcien, Solange and Erik, Denise, Dylan and Craig; great-grandfather to Sydney, Colin, Ryan, Nora, Edwynn, Atticus, Ben, Luc, Jack, Ruby, Maximus and Marcus. Survived by his brother Larry Humphrey and his sister Elizabeth Potts.

Predeceased by his sister-in-law Edna Humphrey and his brother-in-law Douglas Potts. Fred was a retired Educator with Peel Region District School Board. He will be forever remembered by his family for his love of Golf and the Toronto Blue Jays. In keeping with Fred’s wishes, cremation will take place with a private family interment at Maple Leaf Cemetery at a later date. Donations made in memory of Fred to St. Andrew’s Residence or the Chatham-Kent Hospice would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham. 519-351-2040.

Always Remembered

Robert Charles Webster

Sept. 29, 1951 - April 11, 2022

Wanted

Wanted: Scrap air conditioners and misc. Phone 226229-2614.

Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-7278894.

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.

Missed by your loving sister Marilyn

Tours / Travel

Appin Tours Inc.

2023

Enjoy Your Favourite Places, or Try Something New!!

Oct 29 - Nov 5

Home For Sale

A new itinerary for Pigeon Forge & Nashville

November 15 � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � Lunch & Walters Christmas Show in Brantford

Nov. 27 ������� One of A Kind Craft Show, Toronto

2024 is being planned, It’s going to be another great year!

Call Pat Carruthers for details!

519-289-2043 or 519-494-8989

51 Wellington Ave., Appin ON NOL 1AO TICO #500 25867

For Sale For Sale

For Sale: 2 different country western singers card sets of 100 cards. Both sets have Michelle Wright and Jason McCoy. $25.00 for both (have 8 sets) Phone 519-351-2350.

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

$40. 519-354-3411

111 Van Allen Ave., Chatham. Only $2,000 per month, NO down payment required. Secure VTB mortgage, 30-year, 7% rate will never increase guaranteed. Buyer(s) responsible for their own closing costs such as legal services. Purchase price $300,000. Great opportunity for first time home buyers. House has two (2) small bedrooms. New kitchen and laundry appliances. 3pc bathroom with tub. If interested, please Email: xvz7wxn1@ anonaddy.me

For Rent

One bedroom, one bathroom spacious apartment for rent in Thamesville. 3 exits, large yard, fresh paint, new appliances. $1200/month, utilities & wi-fi included. 1st & last, references required. Call 519-917-5446.

Help Wanted

Senior Seeking Cleaning Lady for light housekeeping twice per week. Pays $100/ week. Call Doug at 519-354-3532.

Elaine Shanks (Mills)

Help Wanted

House Cleaner Wanted for one person home. 2hrs each week. Had shots? Non-smoker? Bring own cleaning supplies? Phone 519-354-7241

Pet for Sale

Shihpoo for sale 5 months old, all shots up to date. Call 19-401-0495.

OBITUARIES

94, Thursday, September 14, 2023

Life Transitions

Jerry Prince 83, Monday, September 18, 2023

Life Transitions

Leslie Sterling 68, Thursday, September 21, 2023

Life Transitions

Ernie Jenkins 60, Sunday, September 17, 2023

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Nancy Jean Seney 84, Friday, September 15, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Susan Elizabeth Walker 57, Monday, September 18, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Fred Humphrey 89, Thursday, September 21, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Philippe Blais 90, Wednesday, September 20, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

John Beaman 96, Monday, September 18, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Kenith “Floyd” Selby 43, Tuesday, September 19, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Alice Marie Demers

81, Saturday, September 16, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Michele “Mike” Meriano

84, Tuesday, September 19, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Gennaro Follo

85, Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Jacob Loewen

90, Friday, September 15, 2023

Kendrick Funeral Home

Josie Brouwer

Saturday, September 16, 2023

Kendrick Funeral Home

Frances “Gail” Jauniaux

82, Sunday, September 17, 2023

Nicholls Funeral Home

Mary Louise Popieul

86, Tuesday, September 19, 2023

Nicholls Funeral Home

Richard Joseph Bogaart

68, Tuesday, September 19, 2023

Nicholls Funeral Home