The Chatham Voice, Dec. 11, 2014

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there was a fire, and the location away from the home where everyone When Jessica Miller would meet. His effort moved to Chatham from earned him the bike from Merlin with her two the volunteer firefighters.

“They didn’t know it (the boys seven months ago, she brought with her the plan) was done by a kid small-town ideal of trust with autism,” Jessica said.

That bicycle was his and neighbourhood suppride and port. joy.

It served “Carter has always “Carter her well taken good care of has always over the the bike. It looked like taken good years, incare of the cluding the new.” bike.

It seven she - Mom, Jessica Miller looked like spent in Merlin. Unfortunately, on new,” Jessica said.

And now it was gone.

Nov. 27, it also resulted in Enter the power of sosomeone stealing one of her sons’ bikes while the cial media. Jessica posted on the page of a local family was away.

Thieves stole Carter’s Facebook group about unlocked bright red bike the loss of Carter’s bike. out of his fenced-in back- It soon found its way to the Merlin yard. It was volunteer a bike he’d “I cried my eyes out firefighters, earned two leading to years ago for 24 hours. I was so the renewby winning overwhelmed.” al of Jessia fire safety - Jessica Miller ca’s faith in plan contest at Merlin Area Public small-town kindness.

When the people who School.

Jessica said Carter, who gave Carter a bike two has autism, worked for years ago heard it had hours to finalize the floor been stolen, they acted plan of the family two-sto- quickly to buy him a new rey home in Merlin, de- one and give him a memtailing the escape routes ory he won’t soon forget.

Continued on page 2 the family would use if

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Christmas in Muskoka

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

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Amy and Issac DaSilva were some of the visitors at the Fourth Annual Christmas in Muskoka event held at the Chatham Armoury. The chair of the committee for the Dec. 2-6 event, Shawn Moynihan, said this year has been another success for the fundraiser, which supports more than 300 Grade 7 students, and will help send 120 students from the St. Clair Catholic School Board to the Muskoka Woods Leadership Camp next year.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 2

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

News

Firefighters replace boy’s stolen bike Continued from page 1

The firefighters contacted one of Jessica’s friends in Merlin and asked her to invite the family to dinner. They planned to show up and surprise the Millers.

But the family friend spilled the beans to Jessica a couple of days early.

“I cried my eyes out for 24 hours. I was so overwhelmed,” Jessica said.

“When the firefighters said they were going to replace the bike, I was in shock. It is so heartwarming

that the firefighters wanted to do this for him.”

But Carter had no idea what was in store for him when Jessica took her kids to Merlin for dinner Dec. 2. Jessica said there was a knock at the door and Carter was instructed to answer it, only to be greeted by a group of firefighters armed with a shiny new bike – and an invitation for the family to come for a ride on the fire trucks waiting outside.

Carter loves his new bike and loved riding on a fire truck, lights

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flashing and siren wailing. He appreciates what the firefighters did for him.

“I’d say, ‘Thank you for my bike and have a merry Christmas,’” Carter said of what he’d tell the firefighters.

The guys from Merlin’s station already know how Carter feels.

“This is what being from a small town is all about,” firefighter Darrin Haskell said to Jessica in a text message. “There is nothing more rewarding in life than to see a smile on the face of a small child.”

Just five days after Carter lost his bike, he had a new one. What’s more, the firefighters actually had some competition.

“Somebody I don’t even know in Chatham started a group to try to collect money to buy Carter a new bike,” Jessica said.

As for Carter’s new wheels, as well as every other bike in the family, they’re now stored in the basement. Despite all the small-town goodwill out there, Jessica realizes there are still creeps out and about.

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Carter Miller, 9, loves his new bike, donated to him by firefighters of Station 17 Merlin. Carter earned a bike from the station two years ago when he worked diligently on a fire safety plan for his house, but that bike was stolen in late November. When the firefighters learned what happened, they quickly worked to replace the bike.

High-speed rail stop needed in C-K – Canniff

stop in Chatham. It’s critical we, as a municipality, begin to lobby the province now, One of Chatham-Kent’s newest councillors and start becoming the squeaky wheel now,” isn’t prepared to give up on a high-speed rail Canniff said. line stop in Chatham, despite this communiThe provincial government announced ty being left off the initial schedule. plans for an integrated environmental asDarrin Canniff said it is imperative that the sessment of the project at a news conference community works with the province to state in London last Friday. its case.

Consultation is set to begin next year, al“We definitely need to be a stop on the list. though the high-speed service won’t start for It is zero economic benefit to us if it doesn’t several years. Plans call for the train to stop in Kitchener-Waterloo and London only on its trip between Toronto and Windsor.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 3

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Toyota’s Wishmaker program delivers for the Kloostra family

Shelley and the girls as one of the Wishmaker recipient families.

“They can make some new memories. This Paul Kloostra may not be here in body to is something that can make them all smile,” Donna said. celebrate Christmas with his family this year, but he will “Her husband was just And that’s what happened when staff from the Glassbe there in spirit, thanks in no a great guy. They’ve house Nursery showed up small part to a family friend really suffered a huge and set up the tree. There and the Ontario Toyota Dealloss.” were smiles, tears and hugs all ers Association. around when Toyota represenPaul passed away suddenly - Friend Donna Jubenville tatives and Donna showed up. of a heart attack last January “I thought Christmas is a time for giving. while teaching at John McGregor Secondary School. He left behind his wife, Shelley What a great thing. She’s so happy to have Bechard-Kloostra, and teenaged daughters it,” Donna said of the tree. “She has always been a great friend over the Emilee and Valerie.

His passing hasn’t been easy “I thought Christmas is years. She’s always been there on the family. Enter family a time for giving. What for me.”

The tree is up, but there’s one friend Donna Jubenville. a great thing. She’s special element still missing.

“Her husband was just a great Donna said an artist is designguy. They’ve really suffered a so happy to have it. ing the tree topper. huge loss,” she said. “He was She has always been “I mentioned I wanted the really liked by so many peo- a great friend over the brightest star on top of the tree ple.” years. She’s always as a symbol of Paul looking Donna had heard through her been there for me.” down on them,” she said. “She son about the Toyota Holiday - Donna Jubenville had the choice of three artists Wishmaker program. During to design the star. They’ll realthe 24 days of December leading up to Christmas, the Ontario Toyota ly make it about him (Paul).”

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Affinity Jewelers owner Brent DeNure and Jim Douglas, community relations’ manager for Community Living, show the top prize in the Chatham-Kent Community Living’s 60th anniversary fundraising calendar, a diamond valued at $3,800. The $20 calendars, which have a total prize value of $18,000, are available at Community Living facilities and at the three CIBC locations in Chatham.

Christmas Celebrations

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 4

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

News

Raceway enjoys a successful self-propelled 2014 season

By Jim Blake jim@chathamvoice.com

When the province decided to allow harness racing to continue this season, the Dresden Agricultural Society took the challenge and ran with it.

The result was something which many didn’t believe possible – a successful season with an estimated attendance of 8,000, and wagering which neared a quarter of a million dollars.

Ag society president Lucille Laprise called the decision to try and race “a no brainer” but called the success of the venture

“We knew that once the opportunity was there; we had to try it but it took an incredible amount of work to pull off.”

- Lucille Laprise

“something all of Dresden can be proud of.

“We knew that once the opportunity was there; we had to try it but it took an incredible amount of work to pull off,” she said.

With nearly 140 years of history behind them but no practical experience of running a harness op-

Dave Dufour/Special to The Chatham Voice

Malcolm MacPhail is no stranger to the Dresden Raceway.

eration, the board set to work, enlisting the help of Western Fair Raceway official Greg Blanchard as raceway manager.

“We were involved with Windsor Raceway prior to this, but this worked out much better for us,” Laprise said. “Greg was an absolute delight to work with. He provided so much guidance and support. We couldn’t have done it without him.”

Blanchard said he couldn’t be much happier with the result.

“We jumped in at the last minute, the last second really, but things turned out for the best. I can’t say enough about how Lucille, the ag society and the entire community got behind the effort,” he said. “We met all the benchmarks for a Dave Dufour/Special to The Chatham Voice grassroots track.”

Malcolm MacPhail shows off his plaque honouring him as the first inductee into the Dresden As much as the support Agricultural Society’s hall of fame for the Dresden Raceway this year. from Western Fair was helpful, the support from ty. “We had a few skep- share in a four-foot-by- prise said. “His courage the community and local tics at first, but once they eight-foot cake decorated led to us taking back the raceway.” horsemen was equally knew we were serious, it like a Canadian Flag. couldn’t have been betAnother special day was As well as maintaining important, Laprise said. the Shelly Goodreau Me- tradition, harness racing “Harness racing is a ter.”

Members of the Dres- morial Pace in Septem- is an economic factor in way of life in Dresden den BIA ber, which wrapped up the area. and when s u p p l i e d the season. Goodreau, a “From trainers, to veterwe said we “Harness racing is a s u p p o r t , Dresden native, is a har- inarians, to track workers were bring- way of life in Dresden even hold- ness racing legend who to businesses that supply ing it back, ing a day won more than 2,200 everything associated horse peo- and when we said we in which races and $12 million in with the track, a lot of ple from were bringing it back, downtown prize money before his people are involved,” Laall over the horse people from all b u s i n e s s tragic death in 1982 while prise said. area came over the area came She added the ag society out of the out of the woodwork to s p o n s o re d riding in Hollywood races and Park. He was only 33 and will apply for races next woodwork s u p p l i e d was inducted into the Ca- year and is confident apto help. help.” prizes. nadian Harness Racing proval will be given.

There is so - Lucille Laprise “The key Hall of Fame in the fol“This is a success stomuch exry, but for it to continue perience and passion out to our success was mak- lowing year.

As a way of paying trib- we need the same level there and we were able to ing the raceway a family friendly place,” Laprise ute to the rich history of of commitment. We’re tap into it,” she said.

The first order was to said. “We had all kinds racing locally, the ag so- always looking for volspruce up the facility of theme days with ac- ciety instituted a hall of unteers and board members. You don’t have to with basic maintenance tivities for children. It’s fame in August.

Its first member was be able to do a lot. Every and cleaning. “Once we a place where they can got things ready for the come, the kids can run Malcolm MacPhail, who little bit is helpful.”

Board members this season, we spent a lot of around and the family at 82 has been a fixture time getting ready for the can enjoy a night out with at the raceway for more year are Fay Debergh, Sandra McFadden, Loree race and cleaning up af- some excitement and than four decades. hardly any cost.”

“It was Malcolm who Elgie, Rick Clark, Barry terward.”

Some 2,000 people told the Winrac people Richards, Larry Richards, A key to making the season a success was the turned out on Canada that he wasn’t about to Steve LaMarsh, Nadine backing of the communi- Day to celebrate and leave the raceway,” La- Smith and Greg Pray.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 5

News

Goodfellows spreading Christmas cheer

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

The theft of $3,700 in toys and batteries last month was but a speed bump to the Chatham Goodfellows.

Rose Peseski of the Goodfellows said the Chatham-kent community support clicked into overdrive after someone broke into a trailer on Grand Avenue East, slipping into a tight crack between the trailer and a loading dock to steal from the charitable organization.

“Everyone’s been amazingly supportive,” she said.

“Chatham-Kent always steps up.”

The assistance helped ensure the toy boxes get filled on time. Goodfellows volunteers are spending nights this week packing the boxes at the former Guspro building on Grand Avenue East.

The street sales take place

Friday and Saturday around Chatham, followed next week by the packing of food and delivery of everything to an estimated 1,400 families, which is about the same number as last year.

Peseski said while the gift boxes are being packed this week, the Goodfellows are never done collecting toys.

In fact, members keep emergency packs just in case, and too often, they are needed.

Tim Mifflin, this year’s Mr. Goodfellow, said something unexpected often occurs the week before Christmas.

“Around Christmas, you always have one or two fires,” Mifflin said. “Or I’ve had calls on Christmas day from families with no food and no toys.”

Then there are the houses that get broken into just days before Christmas. Homes get rifled through and all the presents under the tree are

taken.

Goodfellow Tim Haskell said it’s good to be prepared.

“I had a box in my van up until Christmas,” he said.

The same goes for food.

“We all keep turkeys in our freezers at home,” Mifflin said.

“We give from our own pantries,” Peseski added.

Why do the volunteers do it? For Peseski, all the work is worth it for two words: thank you.

“People say we’ve touched their hearts and made their Christmases special,” she said.

Haskell said he wakes up every Christmas morning with a smile, knowing he’s worked to help others have a happier Christmas.

Volunteers are still needed for the street sales and food packing. Anyone interested can contact the Goodfellows at 519-354-1146.

Wanted: Torch bearers The Chatham Voice

Chatham-Kent residents are invited to become torchbearers for the 2015 Pan Am Games.

The Toronto 2015 Torch Relay for the Pan American Games will take place over a 41-day period and will journey through more than 130 communities, including Chatham-Kent.

The torch relay will start across Canada on May 30, 2015 and will make its final stop at the Opening Ceremony of the Games on July 10.

The torch will pass through Chatham-Kent in mid-June,

with stops in Wallaceburg and Chatham. Details are yet to be finalized.

Torchbearers must be Canadian citizens or legal residents of Canada and 13 years of age or older (as of May 30, 2015).

As well, a separate Toronto 2015 Parapan Am Torch Relay will take place prior to the start of the Games Aug. 7.

Citizens can enter to be a torchbearer today at toronto2015.org/ torch-relay. The public application process closes Dec. 1, 2014.

The Toronto 2015 Pan

A BIG THANK YOU

to everyone who voted for me.

Your support was appreciated.

Best of luck to the new council.

American Games will take place July 10-26, and the Parapan American Games Aug. 7-15.

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Tim Haskell and Rose Peseski of Chatham Goodfellows sort through some of the donated toys the group will be handing out to families in need this holiday season.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 6

All aboard, or not...

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Opinion

All aboard – or not We were disappointed but not surprised that Chatham-Kent was left out of the announcement concerning a high-speed rail line between Windsor and Toronto. The announcement was made last week in London.

We’re in a can’t-win situation on this one. We have to raise concerns about Chatham-Kent being left out, but can’t avoid the criticism that “it won’t be a high speed train if it stops everywhere.”

The good point from C-K’s perspective is that the government planning the line won’t be the government that puts it into place, as this is years away. A lot can happen from now until the line is a reality. In the meantime, we can continue touting the very real benefits of rapid transit from Chatham to the GTA. New councillor Darrin Canniff has the right idea that lobbying is the way to go on this one, including whatever influence we have at Queen’s Park.

While we wait, here’s a smaller rail issue we might fix.

A lot of folks were upset that the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train didn’t stop when it went through Chatham this year – and last year. The understated response from the railway folks was classic – if you want us to stop, ask.

Memo to council – make a sticky note.

Speaking of transit and economic benefits, it’s time the municipality used its influence to ask GDF Suez to comply with Transport Canada’s order and remove or lower eight wind turbines near the Chatham Airport.

Greater love hath no one than the mayor for wind turbines, but when it becomes a safety issue (and we’re not really arguing that Chatham-Kent has more knowledge on this than the federal government, are we?) we need to defer and obey the law.

If we come down on the wrong side of this issue, we’re one accident away from looking like the backwater of all backwaters, especially if someone dies.

It’s better to eat some crow, if that’s what it takes.

We have plenty of them.

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Make the effort, find new docs Sir: As a former resident and employee with the Regional Municipality of Waterloo and now a new resident of Chatham-Kent, after reading your article, “Farming out urology,” (in the Dec. 4 Chatham Voice), I felt compelled to comment on this matter.

I am – and correct me if I’m wrong – under the assumption that municipal council is trying to attract new residents by becoming an excellent

community in which to retire. I believe this to be true.

However, that can only happen if the needs of its residents, and in this particular case retirees, are met. To farm out urology in my opinion and not attempt to offer incentives for new doctors/specialists to open practices here is not a direction we should be going.

This seems to me to be

counter productive in attracting new residents to our community. It seems to be an example of complacency on the part of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.

When the Region of Waterloo was facing a similar dilemma, it opted to offer incentives for new doctors to start practices there. It too could have opted for sending patients to Toronto,

Hamilton, and London as examples, but chose a different route to take.

It’s my belief we should be following that example. It’s one thing to reduce costs by cutting back in some ways but to inconvenience and add additional stress to a segment of the community needing these services is not acceptable. It’s instead just a quick fix.

And in despair I bowed my head; “There is no peace on earth,” I said; “For hate is strong, And mocks the song Of peace on earth, good-will to men!”

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: “God is not dead; nor doth he sleep!

The Wrong shall fail, The Right prevail, With peace on earth, goodwill to men!”

Wadsworth Longfellow and see how man’s inhumanity to man continues throughout our world and we all continue to be diminished by it.

This year there are some startling examples of hatred and violence towards our fellow man.

This is nothing new it has continued through centuries of progress and plagues civilization today and will for years to come, if history is an accurate indicator of human behavior.

There is, however, peace and solace I take in not only the words from this poem, which became a Christmas carol, but from so many of the Christmas hymns left to us from times when this earth was shaken by terrible wars and devastation. No matter what man does to his brother, no matter how harshly and unfairly we treat each other and surrender ourselves to the deadliest of sins, there is that singular light of hope that lives on and continues to grow

stronger than any dictator or any terrorist wickedness can spawn.

This is the perfect time of year to embrace the spirit of faith and of hope and of love towards our fellow man. My wish and fervent prayer is that we will all pause to consider ourselves and our own actions. Peace and love to all men must start within ourselves. I hope we will all take time to enjoy the peace and joy of the season.

John Supczak Chatham

Enough with hatred and violence

Sir: I think every year we can reflect on these words penned by Henry

Tim Tunks Chatham

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

PAGE 7

News

Council approves cultural concept Some items in cultural plan will head to budget deliberations

name of the Kiwanis Theatre would be explored as well, which would help Chatham-Kent’s new differentiate it from the cultural roadmap was laid Capitol Theatre.

Staff is recommending out for the new council at that the entrance for the Monday night’s meeting.

Evelyn Bish, director of box office be moved to community services, pro- the museum and gallery vided a presentation dis- entrance.

Bish said this would be cussing key points from the 30-plus recommenda- better for customer service and tions from better for the Cha- “I feel like I’m in the accommotham-Kent dation. c u l t u r a l minority tonight. I’m The report plan imple- comfortable with the also recomm e n t a t i o n plan. I think this is a mended project. good use of funds.” hiring a faBish said - Coun. Derek Robertson cility bookthe plan ining co-orcludes more of structured network, dinator at a price tag of moving away from the $65,500. Bish said the cost of this would be covered CreateCK strategy.

For the Chatham Cultur- through an increase in al Centre, Bish said staff ticket handling fees at will investigate addition- the Kiwanis Theatre and al storage for the facility, savings from a service rewith the former Cinema view.

She said the majority 6 on King Street East as a of funding in the report, possible location.

Staff is also recommend- which totals $544,612, ing that the 42-year-old would come from reseats be replaced in the serves, and each item would come back to Kiwanis Theatre.

Bish said this move council.

“No new tax dollars are would reduce seats in the theatre from 638 to 400, being asked for at this but it would make it more time,” Bish said.

Before moving the recaccessible and provide a “fuller house,” which ommendations for apwould increase the quali- proval, Chatham Coun.

Derek Robertson comty of experience.

Bish said changing the mended staff for a good

By Aaron Hall Contributing Writer

report.

“I feel like I’m in the minority tonight,” he said.

“I’m comfortable with the plan. I think this is a good use of funds.”

West Kent Coun. Bryon Fluker made a successful amendment to Robertson’s motion, shifting a number of items regard-

to ensure NO CHILD WITHOUT A CHRISTMAS that there STREET SALES will be . .

The Chatham Goodfellows will be at the following locations . . . .

Friday, Dec. 12

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Co-ordinators: Lenore Merritt & Rosanne Cummings, Helen Masterson Captain: Jessica Brooks - Chatham Christian High School Students Captain: Elaine Wolting - St. Clair College Students Rotary: Greg Kett Knights of Columbus: John Masterson Realtors: Andrea Okopny, Tom Swan and Chris Papple Goodfellows: Bob Borrowman, Garry Borrowman, Dan O’Neil, Dave and Veronica McGinnis, Chris Hancock Captain: Elaine Wolting - St. Clair College Students Royal Bank: Jackie Bray and Judy Serruys Knights of Columbus: Leonard Casier and Ted Scjczynski Realtors: Steve Okopny and Elliot Wilton Goodfellows: Cora VanBrunschot, Jim and Carol Dale, Guy Foster, Ron Denomy, Mary Rivard, Morgan Treachy Captain: Elaine Wolting - St. Clair College Students Lead by: Jason King - North Raleigh Volunteer Fire Department Rotary: Charles Seaman and Jim Steel Knights of Columbus: Bruno Moccia and Peter Eitutis Realtors: Jim McLachlin and Steve Carroll Goodfellows: Bob Wood, Les Wood and Don Hill Captain: Elaine Wolting - St. Clair College Students Lead by: Jason King - North Raleigh Volunteer Fire Department Royal Bank: Brian Gordon and Nicole Piette Rotary: Keith Koke Knights of Columbus: John Driessen, Robert Finlin, Paul Latimer, Mark Eagen and John Emery Goodfellows: Laura Driessen, Jerry Finlin, Mary Claire Latimer, Stephanie and Todd Piercy Lead by: Jason King - North Raleigh Volunteer Fire Department Knights of Columbus: Casey Dillon, Tony Waddick, Salvatore Cresta, Bert VanBemmel and Derek Jane Goodfellows: Jim Morlog, Henny Casier, Mary Ann Wieringa, Frank and Sandy VanDenBoorn

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of Chatham-Kent is working together on a cultural plan,” she said. “We’re not even talking about black history or culinary tourism. This is missing something for me and all of Chatham-Kent to address cultural needs.”

Bish added this plan is just a starting point.

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of this should go to the 2015 budget ... this is the responsible thing to do,” he said. “There will be competing projects. We’re just going to be dealing with a whirlwind.”

South Kent Coun. Karen Herman said she was not happy with the report.

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ing the Kiwanis Theatre, Studio One and the box office be moved to the budget deliberations.

East Kent Coun. Steve Pinsonneault entered an unsuccessful motion to move all of the financial aspects of the report to the 2015 budget.

“All the financial aspects

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Co-ordinators: Dan Bunning, Garth Vanstone Goodfellows: Joe Nager, George Jordan, Doug Kent, Rev. John Giurin, Heather Kingham, Sandra Bunning, Stephanie Williams Goodfellows: Andrea Mardling, Connie Mardling, Phil Mardling, Katlin Brown and friend Marguarite Brown

Nortown Plaza - Sat. Dec. 13 9:30-12:00 12:00-2:00

Co-ordinators: Dan Bunning, Garth Vanstone 2:00-4:00 Lead by: Jason King - North Raleigh Volunteer Fire Department Knights of Columbus: Salvatore Cresta and Leonard Casier Rotary: Greg Kett and Ruth Howell Realtors: Patty Vermeersch Canadian Food for Children: Rick Leszczynski and John VanRaay Goodfellows: Henry Casier, Sylvia Walker, Carol Carson, Bob Little and Rick Pinsonneault 9:30-12:00 Captain: Kristen Crow - Chatham Kent Secondary School Students Goodfellows: John Kehoe, Myles Jackson

Captain: Kristen Crow - Chatham Kent Secondary School Students 12:00-4:00 Goodfellows: John Kehoe, Myles Jackson 4:00-6:00 Goodfellows: David O’Neil, Sandy Flynn, Peter Vale Chatham Kent Secondary School Students Sophie Marvell, Jackie Howell, Monica Sakhuja, Abbi Richards, 6:00-8:00 Kayla Stewart, Ryan Steward, Kelly St.Pierre, Grace Dyck Goodfellows: George Jordan, Mike Meredith, Tim Phipps, Cheryl Phipps, Garth Vanstone, Gail Vanstone

Corordinators: Peter Krailo and Lee Harris Captain: Chad Strain St. Andrew’s AOTS: Dave Gillispie, Bill Gurin, Bob Hobbs, Ed Parr, John Speller, Kim Strain, Fred Strain Goodfellows: Lance Babcock, Brian Lockrey, Ed Myers, Bruno Padovan, Pat Quimby, Don Slavik, Mike Warren Captain: Susan Bechard - Chatham #4 Scouts Nortowners: Brittany McLaren, Rick Moore, Wayne O’Sullivan, Bill Tye Goodfellows Julie DeMeyer, Malcolm Dernick Captain: Susan Bechard - Chatham #4 Scouts

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Co-ordinators: Peter Krailo, Lee Harris Captain: Jessica Brooks - Chatham Christian School Goodfellows: Connie Mardling, Rob Robinson Captain: Kristen Crow - Chatham Kent Secondary School Students Goodfellows: Connie Mardling, Rob Robinson Nortowners: Mark Authier, Ron Ball, Xander Bechard, Chris Blue, Brittany McLaren, Dale Ripley Goodfellows: Connie Mardling, Rob Robinson

Co-ordinators: Mark & Joe Kloostra Goodfellows: Marien Hopman, Pat Rivard, Dennie and Jean Makowetsky, Jim Rogers, Ivan Marentette, Ron McIntyre, Dennis Lloyd, Kevin Newby, Bill Keech, Bobby Canata, Joe Kloostra (office) Captain: Kristen Crow - Chatham Kent Secondary School Students Goodfellows: Jim Blake, Bruce Corcoran, Sharon Kloostra, Kirsten Kloostra, Megan Kloostra, Erik Kloostra, Kyuss Hart, Steve Kloostra, Jarod Kloostra, Simon Vallahora, Henny Kloostra, Betty Schiestel Goodfellows: Dan Peltier and the Jayden Construction Crew

North Maple Mall - Sat. Dec. 13

9:30-12:00 12:00-2:00 2:00-4:00

Co-ordinators: Mark Kloostra, Rose Branquet Goodfellows: Dennis and Jean Makowetsky, Hugh Van Pelt, Johnny Zudima, Al Myers, Sharon Kloostra, Kirsten Kloostra, The Winmar Restoration Crew Goodfellows: Ken Janssens, Sue Janssens, Davis Janssens, Rose Branquet, Aspen Branquet, Tyler Branquet, Kathy Patteson, Sante Patteson, Sierra Barry, Al Myers, Zak Brodie, Camille MacPhail Goodfellows: Rose Branquet, Aspen Branquet, Tyler Branquet, Kathy Patteson, Sante Patteson, Sierra Barry, Selina Barry, Al Myers, Sharon Kloostra, Kirsten Kloostra

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 8

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

News

Gathering marks the massacre

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

“They were so young.”

That’s a message journalist Jack Todd sent to the Chatham gathering Saturday to mark the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Massacre.

Fourteen women were murdered on Dec. 6, 1989 when Marc Lepine opened fire at Ecole Polytechnique, targeting women.

Todd, who had hoped to attend the Chatham event, suffered a back injury and was unable to travel. He was one of the first reporters on the scene 25 years ago.

About 90 people attended the event at Villa Angela Saturday morning and took part in a ceremony to remember the women killed two and a half decades ago. Todd sent a message that was read to those gathered. His recounting of that evening left

several people in tears.

“After 25 years, you have to wonder what has improved,” said Sister Anne Denomy.

“There is hope for revitalization as we struggle to end violence against women.”

Michelle Schryer, executive director of the Chatham-Kent Sexual Assault Crisis Centre, said there have indeed been changes, some good and some bad, but not where it counts.

“About as many women are

killed in Canada each year as there were 25 years ago,” she said.

Schryer said the addition of the federal gun registry was a step in the right direction, but it has since been “kicked to the curb.”

She added there is more awareness today, however, and more resources for victims to seek out.

Schryer said there is still hope, but a great deal of work lies ahead.

“People need to understand violence against women is widespread and not just domestic violence,” she said, adding violence in the workplace, human trafficking and prostitution must not be ignored.

Chatham-Kent Essex MP Dave Van Kesteren attended Saturday’s event. He said having 14 granddaughters helps remind him we need to “remain vigilant to end violence against women.”

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Participants in the Chatham-Kent National Day of Remembrance and Action to End Violence Against Women blew out a candle and laid a rose in honour of the 14 women killed 25 years ago in the Montreal Massacre at Ecole Polytechnique.

About 90 people attended the Saturday event at Villa Angela just off McNaughton Avenue in Chatham.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

News

Molemas closing Luxe in January

By Sarah Schofield Contributing Writer

It’s been seven and a half years since Luxe Ladies Fashion Boutique opened its doors. On Jan. 30, they will be closing them.

Store owner Sherry Molema and her daughter Lindsay made the announcement recently.

“We’ve been doing this for over 38 years and we maybe need another challenge,” said Molema.

“For now, we’ll close, regroup, and who knows what is up our sleeve.”

Sherry added.

Luxe’s faithful customers have had a unanimous reaction to the announcement.

“They’re sad, but they understand that 38 years is a long time,” she said.

Molema, who was raised in the area, has spent her retail career in Chatham-Kent, as the former owner of Colonial Nurseries and Garden Centre alongside her late husband, Perry, and most recently as the owner of Luxe.

“It was always kind of a dream,” Sherry said of owning a fashion business.

”We started out small and we grew,” said added.

More than a year ago, Luxe expanded with the addition of Luxe Plus, to meet the demand for plus-size clothing.

Like her store, Sherry and her family have been a fixture to downtown Chatham, and an enthusiastic supporter of community events. She has been involved in numerous projects over the years including the recent Fashion’s Night Out and fundraising for various charities.

Over the years, she said she has seen a significant change in downtown Chatham, especially in tourism.

“I’ve seen a huge growth in the downtown. It’s become more vibrant. Lots of local people and lots of out-of-towners,” she said, adding the influx was helped by events such as RetroFest.

She encourages people to stop in at the King Street store location, and take advantage of the significant savings on everything from clothes and jewelery to the mannequins and fixtures.

PAGE 9

Sarah Schofield/Special to The Chatham Voice

Sherry Molema, left, and her daughter Lindsay, right, from Luxe Ladies Fashion Boutique, recently announced the doors to their popular store in downtown Chatham will be closing Jan. 30 next year after seven years of business. Sherry has had an extensive retail career in Chatham for the past 38 years, and is looking forward to another challenge.

With her looming time off, Sherry is looking forward to enjoying spending it with her family.

“We’re very active in the community so you’ll probably still see me downtown every day,” she said.

Sherry added she will gladly step forward to offer her ideas to help benefit the downtown

core further, if asked. Until then, she doesn’t see an end with the closing of

her store, but as a chance to step back and reflect.

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PAGE 10

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

News

MP ecstatic over Bill’s approval Bill still must pass through the Senate

By Jim Blake jim@chathamvoice.com

Even by telephone you could see the smile on Dave Van Kesteren face as he talked about the passage of his private member’s Bill C591 Wednesday.

“It’s why we’re here,” he said from his Ottawa office of the bill that will deny those convicted of killing their spouse or

parents the right to collect government survivor’s benefits.

“The opportunity to have direct impact means a lot to me,” he said.

‘We spend a lot of time working collectively as a caucus and a government, but to take something from the idea stage through to law is a great experience.”

The legislation is officially titled Bill C591, An

Act to Amend t h e Canada Pension P l a n a n d O l d A g e Security Act, Dave VanKesteren P e n sions and Benefits. It unanimously passed third reading in Parliament and is now off to the Senate for approval.

Van Kesteren said although everyone agrees with the intent of the Bill,

getting it into law is still a challenge.

“Governments must spend the majority of their time dealing with the issues of their platforms,” he said. “Getting the time and resources together for other business can be a challenge.”

The Chatham-Kent-Essex MP said he received “lots of help” from staff to make sure the wording is correct and the law will stand any tests it may encounter.

“Any time legislation is passed, it needs to be as clear as possible,” he

said. “It’s not as easy as it seems. No one envisioned the scenario where someone would be financially benefitting from taking the life of another, but that’s where we are. Canadians certainly aren’t in favour of that and neither is the government. It needs to be changed.”

He’s hoping for Senate approval by June, but is concerned that may not happen before next year’s mandated federal election.

If the Senate doesn’t approve the Bill before the

election, the entire process would have to be started over.

Since the opportunity to present private members bills is governed by a random selection process, it’s conceivable that the change could be years away.

“I’m going to use my influence with senators, but of course all MPs are going to be doing the same to get their issues to the top of the list,” he said. “This is good legislation and should have a strong chance of passing if the Senate gets to it.”

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

PAGE 11

Life

Remembering Montreal Massacre I attended a moving ceremony on the weekend to mark the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Massacre.

It took place Saturday morning at Villa Angela just off McNaughton Avenue.

About 90 people attended. More than a few were in tears at various points during the service.

The Chatham-Kent

Domestic Violence Community Co-ordinating Committee does an excellent job with the event, driving home the point that violence against women – not just in the home, but everywhere – must not be tolerated.

To hear about the same number of women are killed in Canada each year today as there were 25 years ago is madden-

ing.

Surely society has evolved, hasn’t it?

Goodfellows need a boost

I met with a few of the Chatham Goodfellows recently for an update on how their annual “No Child Without a Christmas” effort is proceeding.

Despite the theft of $3,700 in toys and batteries, they

Bruce Corcoran are doing well.

But one area in which they are short is toys for kids aged 10-12. It’s that

Speaking of the toy theft, Mr. Goodfellow himself, Tim Mifflin, showed me the small area the thief had to crawl up into between a loading dock and the back of a trailer to break into the trailer. Let’s just say it would have been difficult for anyone who wasn’t borderline thin to get in there.

tough area where they aren’t little children and are on the cusp of becoming teenagers.

The Goodfellows are packing toys this week, but are still accepting donations. If you can, please stop by at the former Guspro building on Grand Avenue East after 6 p.m. to drop off a donation, or call them at 519-354-1146 to set something up.

Continued on page 12

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 12

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Life

Of football, barbecuing and just enjoying life The efforts people go to in order to steal

Continued from page 11

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Just as bad, Tim said they’ll likely get a call or two at the last minute from families who get victimized by a break-in just a couple of days before Christmas. Too often, someone breaks in and steals all the gifts under a family’s Christmas tree.

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Jim and I work in an office full of women – very smart, funny women, who put up with us.

But there are days where I wish there were more guys around, if you can believe it.

One such day was Monday, the day after a busy NFL weekend, one where the Raiders actually won a game. The Lions won too. And college football decided who would vie for the championship.

Great football weekend.

And the ladies are talking about cosmetics, lotions, hair masks, cuticle scrubs, and emotional family stuff.

WHAT? Fortunately, I got my fix on the weekend. I fired up the Big Green Egg on Sunday and cooked half a dozen chicken breasts – some wrapped in bacon – as well as several pounds of chicken wings.

Jim stopped by and followed the smell into the backyard to find me hanging out, catching some rays on a cool but sunny December day, beer in hand.

Sure, we missed most of the first half of the early games, but the weather was fine for barbecuing. I didn’t sweat. There were no flies or wasps.

And people asked me earlier this year if I’d be using the Egg over the winter.

Yes, the snow has only hit once, and just briefly, but I plan to be out there pretty much every weekend, and a few weeknights, cooking for family and friends.

I even sent a whack of chicken thighs off with the ladies for a weekend trip to Waterloo to visit with one of my brothers-in-law.

Lounging in the backyard while the meat is cooking is peaceful in the summertime. But there is something pretty darned sweet about doing it in the chill of late fall too, whether it’s on a Sunday afternoon or on a dark night, with the moon and stars staring down at me.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 13

Life

Don Wells rekindles shelter goal

By Jim Blake jim@chathamvoice.com

Don Wells just couldn’t do it.

The Wallaceburg-area man suffering from advanced prostrate cancer announced two months ago that he was abandoning plans for a local homeless shelter, but has reconsidered.

“I was tired and I thought the situation might be handled in other ways, but I don’t believe that’s going to be enough,” he said. “I had so many people tell me that I shouldn’t give up, and then when the weather turned cold I knew that there were people suffering who needed help.”

Wells spoke before a

crowd of 40 at is trying to help, Valerie Colasanti, Chathe St. Joseph’s but more needs tham-Kent’s director of Community Cento be done than employment and social tre Thursday eveto just give some- services, said the municning, discussing one a room for ipality’s “housing first” his efforts over the night.” model has been develmore than three The plan calls oped with a variety of decades in Sarnia for the creation of community partners and and Owen Sound. a community of is the best strategic fit for He first began service providers today’s circumstances.

Don Wells in 1982 when he working together “From our own perwas involved in to ensure no indi- spective, the bricks-andfounding the Inn of the vidual or family is with- mortar shelter approach Good Shepherd, and sev- out stable just isn’t en years ago he was in- housing for “I don’t want to say financially strumental in starting Riv- longer than viable,” she anything against anyer City Vineyard, both in a month. said.

Sarnia. In between, while One key one who is trying to The housliving in Owen Sound, he feature is help, but more needs ing-first started a similar effort. a 24-hour to be done than to just model proWells said the 10-year h o m e l e s s give someone a room vides immehomelessness plan devel- r e s p o n s e diate shortoped by the municipality line (519- for the night.” term shelter, doesn’t go far enough.

3 5 4 - 6 6 2 8 ) - Don Wells followed by “I don’t want to say any- that began a rapid tranthing against anyone who operating in the summer. sition into whatever social

Program educates seniors on fraud

program is appropriate to munity “invisible” but increasing, comments Wells the individual.

“We have many part- says are half right. “ T h e ners in the problem is community “From our own pergrowing and we’re spective, the bricksbut it isn’t always hap- and-mortar shelter py to work invisible,” with them,” approach just isn’t he said. financially viable.” she said.

“People are Wells said - Valerie Colasanti sleeping in poverty and abandoned a lack of dignity lead to buildings, in cars and the hopelessness and iso- wherever they can crash lation, and without ad- for a night.” dressing those issues, the Without a support sysproblem will continue. tem, Wells said the home“I don’t think the people less often turn to subinvolved have been down stance abuse. and out, and until you “It’s difficult to deal have been, you just can’t with the constant pain, so understand it,” he said. people turn to something “It brings you to your for relief, except that it’s a knees.” false relief.”

The municipal plan calls Continued on page 14 homelessness in the com-

Mistletoe Ball

Partnership delivers information on how to be armed against scammers in his work,” she said. “The program uses theatre and a little bit of humour to lighten the topic, deliver A federal grant has powered a the awareness and open the discuspartnership to help combat fraud sion.”

She said one example of a scam evagainst seniors.

St. Andrew’s Residence and the eryone should be aware of is the lotChatham-Kent Police Service tery scam where someone contacts (CKPS), with the help of a group you saying you’ve won the lottery, from the Active Lifestyle Centre but you need to use a credit card to get your cheque.

(ALC), are behind it.

Then there are contractors who Jessica Smith, executive director come to your door, of St. Andrew’s Resitake your money, but dence, said a $25,000 “The program uses don’t perform the New Horizons’ grant theatre and a little bit work. is fuelling the ABC’s of humour to lighten Or there’s the grift of Fraud program. the topic, deliver the where you receive “It allowed us to put an e-mail saying a some staff resources awareness and open grandchild is overseas behind it to specifical- the discussion.” in trouble and needs ly design a program - Jessica Smith money quickly. Genfor Chatham-Kent,” Smith said of the government grant. erally, the scammer asks the person “It’s based on a program out of Ot- to send money via wire transfer.

“What we’ve done with the skits is tawa.”

The program is a presentation, we go through how you would be done with the help of members taken by the scam if you’re caught of the ALC’s Fun Theatre Group. off guard,” Smith said. “Then we Smith said it goes off site to deliver do the same skit again, but with rethe anti-fraud message to seniors’ actions like you’re aware of how to protect yourself.” groups and organizations.

And she said the best protection “We’ve been out presenting to seniors’ centres. But we’re interest- from scammers is to be aware.

“If something seems questionable ed in presenting to other seniors’ groups, whether it’s a church group or too good, it probably is,” she or a service group, whatever,” she said. “The biggest part is not falling into it. Assert yourself and ask a few said.

Smith said the Det. Const. Gary questions.”

To book the program, contact Smith Oriet of the CKPS sees what types of fraud is being perpetrated against at St. Andrew’s at 519-354-8103.

The program will wrap up in the local seniors.

“He’s given us examples he’s seen spring.

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Elaine Weaver/Special to The Chatham Voice

Maj. Mark Douglas, commanding officer of the Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment, addresses the gathering Saturday at the Mistletoe Ball. The black-tie dinner took place in the Chatham-Kent Armoury, with about 130 people attending. Lt. Col. (Ret.) Stephen Day was the guest speaker. He’s a former commander of Canada’s JTF2, the elite unit of our Armed Forces.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 14

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

Business Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Victory Ford handed out nearly $39,000 to a half-dozen local non-profit organizations Thursday. From left, Beverli Bryce of the Mitchell’s Bay Area Association, Devin Cammaert of Victory Ford, Shawn Moynihan of Christmas in Muskoka, Alora Webb of the YMCA’s Project Guatemala, Victory Ford’s Don “Sparky” Leonard, Santa Claus, Connor Szabo of the Chatham Ball Hawks, Laure Grincourt of Lincoln Motor Company, Kerry Lynn Buse of Kent County Girls’ Hockey, and Nancy McDowell of Habitat for Humanity Chatham-Kent.

Run Date: Dec 11, 2014 Chatham Voice (6.8333" x 10.286") Full Colour EOR#6874

Driven to give

Drive One 4 UR Community and Lincoln Driven to Give fundraising programs. He estimates for the year, Ford and Lincoln have donated more than $65,000 through the programs to a dozen community groups.

“I feel like Santa,” Leonard said after handing out the six cheques Thursday. “We really believe that we need to be a part of the community; a part of the community fabric, and help build a better community. There are so many things you can do that leave a big impact.”

The Chatham Voice

During the season of giving, Victory Ford personnel doled out six cheques, totalling nearly $39,000, Thursday to local community groups.

Christmas in Muskoka, Habitat for Humanity Chatham-Kent, the Chatham Ball Hawks, YMCA’s Project Guatemala, the Mitchell’s Bay Area Association, and the Chatham-Kent Girls’ Hockey League all benefitted.

Don “Sparky” Leonard of Victory Ford said the money came from the Ford

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W R who wants to hear what he has to say.

“I want to spread the word, so if someone wants to call me (519-3281363), I’m available.”

Continued from page 13

Wells said it would take a co-ordinated effort to bring the idea of a shelter to fruition. He said he would speak with anyone

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

PAGE 15

Business

Rock N event raises $18K The Chatham Voice

Rock N For Research rolled in the fundraising dollars recently, pulling in nearly $18,200 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Organizers Nancy Tippin, Cheri Arnew, Joanne Mallette, Dawn McGregor and Linda O’Hara had hoped to reach the $15,000 mark for the second annual event, and were ecstatic to exceed their goal by $3,000.

JDRF is the largest non-governmental, non-profit funder of diabetes research in the world. Local funding will support regional research and clinical trials battling Type 1 diabetes.

Nurses donate to Hospice

A Chatham-Kent’s nurses’ group accomplished its goal.

The Chatham-Kent Nurses in Support of the Chatham-Kent Hospice, organized by retired nurse Bonnie Sunnen, had a goal of raising $50,000

by Dec. 1. The plan was to encourage local nurses, working and retired, to support the hospice.

When this month arrived, they’d raised $51,371.

A nurses’ station in the hospice will be named in their honour.

CKHA gets book support

Long-time Foundation of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) supporter and former Chatham-Kent resident, Andrew Faas, has written a new book dealing with bullying in the workplace. His book “The Bully’s Trap” will be released in January, but Faas has arranged for pre-orders of the book to be available locally, with $5 from every book sold via the pre-order to be directed to the Foundation of CKHA’s $6.9 million CKHA Diagnostic Imaging Equipment Renewal Campaign.

He will also present at a lunch and learn event, hosted by the Foundation of CKHA, on Feb. 19, 2015, at Club Lentinas.

For details, visit www. foundationckha.com.

Continued on page 17

Paint The Town Red Place your order today! $5.00 - Cash only

All proceeds go to UCB Canada 89.3 and The Salvation Army gospel text bookstore

56 Grand Ave. E., Chatham 519-352-5190 • gospeltextbookstore.ca

Store Hours: Mon-Thurs. 9am-5:30pm Fri. 9am-6pm • Sat. 9am-5pm

Bruce Corcoran /The Chatham Voice

From left, Cheri Arnew, Nancy Tippin, Sharon O’Leary and Linda O’Hara celebrate the more than $18,000 the recent Rock N For Research event raised for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 16

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

ADVERTORIAL

Union Gas program provides relief for Ontario residents It seemed too good to be true. This past winter, McKellar homeowner Judith received a direct mail letter from Union Gas, offering to insulate her home free of charge.

Skeptical but curious, she phoned about the program.

After a Union Gas contractor explained the details and income eligibility criteria for the utility’s home weatherization program, Judith fi lled out an application, photocopied her Notice of Assessment from last year’s tax return and mailed it in.

In a matter of days, she received a call from a certified energy adviser, Don Rutledge, to schedule an energy audit of her home. The audit revealed that the attic and basement of her 85-year-old house were under-insulated.

Over the past year, Don has helped over 125 area residents take advantage of the Union Gas weatherization program. He calculated the energy savings, submitted the work plan and within two weeks, Judith’s basement walls were neatly clad in a blanket of R-12 insulation.

“The basement has always been quite cold in the winter and damp and humid in the summer,” noted Judith. “I was amazed how almost immediately the basement felt much warmer.”

The insulation contractor also added nine inches of cellulose fibre to the existing insulation in her attic.

For a retiree living on a fixed income, free home energy improvements worth $3,750, along with estimated savings of $250 in annual heating costs, provide welcome relief.

“I made sure my neighbour signed up for the program,” she said.

To find out more about the Union Gas Home Weatherization Program go to uniongas.com/weatherization.

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THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

PAGE 17

News

Scribendi offers new services

Continued from page 15

To pre-order your copy of the book online for $34.99 (plus applicable taxes), visit http://bit.ly/thebullystrap-chatham-kent-health-alliance or visit www.foundationckha. com and click on the link available.

Scribendi expands services

Scribendi.com has expanded its horizons. The local company now offers search engine optimization (SEO) editing, web copy optimization, and social media editing to its set of service offerings.

The new services will target the needs of marketers and businesses that are looking to increase traffic to their websites, increase their page rankings, and foster more engagement through social networks.

“Our SEO services are an exciting new addition to our already diverse service offerings,” explained Karen Ashford, marketing manager, in a media release. “These services tar-

get businesses and individuals who do a lot of marketing and want to ensure their content is optimized, written flawlessly, and helps meet their marketing goals.”

As content marketing and development continue to grow, Scribendi.com, the leading online editing and proofreading company, recognizes the need for content that is not only well written but also optimized to attract the most visitors.

Sertomas support hearing society

The Sertoma Foundation of Canada recently donated $8,000 to the Canadian Hearing Society Chatham programs.

The donation will be used to fund Hearing Help Classes. The remainder of the funds will be placed in the community fund, which helps those who need financial assistance for hearing aids, communication devices, and other essential hearing health help.

UPCOMING EVENTS 2015 Wednesday Movie Pass

42 Movies for $25 plus HST Only available at our office, 238 King St. W or by phone 519-380-0174

December 18-20 - Legally Blonde The Musical - Harvard’s beloved blonde Elle Woods, takes the stage by pink storm in the fun, upbeat story of self-discovery. Starring students from across Chatham-Kent. Tickets $25.

January 17 - Brent Butt - Canada’s funnyman Brent Butt, tours the Country in support of his new movie, Corner Gas. Tickets $25.

January 24 - The Acoustical Sounds of Big Sugar

BIG SUGAR churn out their unique blend of roots-rock-reggae, soul and dub with double neck guitars and dreadlocks flying through the air. Tickets from $30

January 30 - SPANK! The Fifty Shades Parody - The whip-smart comedy that takes on the naughty fun of the best-selling book and highly anticipated movie, and brings it to outrageous life!

Tickets from $40.

St. Clair College Capitol Theatre, 238 King St. W., Chatham Tickets available through the Box Office at the Cultural Centre 75 William St. N., Chatham or call 519-354-8338 Purchase tickets online at

stclaircollegecapitoltheatre.com

Thursday, December 11, 2014 • Christmas in the Village held at the Safety Village (21797 Fargo Rd., Blenheim) from 5:00pm-8:00pm.

Take a photo with Santa, shop our many vendor and enjoy some hot chocolate. Tree lighting ceremony at 7:00pm. Take a hay ride through the park, enjoy Christmas carolers and vote for your favourite miniature building’s Christmas decorations.

• Thursday Afternoon Seniors Euchre at Branch 28 Legion, 304 St. Clair St. in the clubroom located in the lower level. All levels of experience are welcome to take part.

• Poinsettia Production from 7:00pm-8:00pm at the Chatham branch of the CKPL. Join the Chatham Horticultural Society as they hear from member Bill Ross about his experience growing poinsettias commercially. Refreshments and door prizes.

Friday, December 12, 2014 • Friday evening Fun Darts League in the clubroom at Branch 28 Legion, 304 St. Clair St., Chatham starting at 7:00pm. All levels of expertise welcome to take part. Small nominal fee.

• The Kent Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society presents ‘Tis the Season! Come together to share family history stories, fellowship and cheer.

Held at St. Andrew’s Residence, 99 Part St., Chatham. Everyone is welcome.

• Meal at Branch 628 Royal Canadian Legion, William & Colborne St., Chatham Dinner at 5:30pm.

Chicken legs, roast beef or fish & chips for $8.00 One meat draw. Everyone Welcome.

Saturday, December 13, 2014 • 4th Annual Crafts for a Cause Handmade Market from 10:00am-4:00pm at the Chatham Portuguese Club, 346 Grand Ave. E., Chatham. $2.00 or a canned good. Over 30 vendors. Fresh hot lunch available in the cafe for purchase as well as visit Santa to take photos with!

• Benefit Christmas Concert for Chatham Outreach for Hunger at 7:00pm. First Presbyterian Church, 60 Fifth St., Chatham. Free will offering.

• Decorate the Parlour. Drop in to the Children’s Room at the Chatham branch of the CKPL to step back in time by making some decorations for the Dickens days of ‘olde’. All welcome from 1:00pm2:00pm.

• Meat draw at Branch 628 Royal Canadian Legion, William & Colborne St., Chatham from 4:30pm6:00pm followed by a dance from 6:30pm-10:30pm featuring The Marques.

Sunday, December 14, 2014 • Merlin Legion Fall Breakfast from 10:00am1:00pm. Bacon, sausage, french toast, pancakes, scrambled eggs, homefries, coffee, tea, juice & dessert. $10 adults and $5 kids 10 and under • Bingo at Branch 243 Royal Canadian Legion, 75 Main St. E., Ridgetown sponsored by Ladies Auxiliary from 2:00pm-4:00pm. Entry fee is $10, includes 4 cards. Additional cards $1 each. Specials $2 for strip of 3. Jackpot $200.

• The Discover Bible Class will meet at 3:30pm at the Seventh-day Adventist Church, 20 Croydon St., Chatham. The topic is “When Jesus Come For you.”

All are welcome.

Monday, December 15, 2014 • Merry Mingle 2014: Free Holiday Lunch at the Chatham Kent Community Health Centres, 150 Richmond St., Chatham from 12:00pm-2:00pm.

Everyone is welcome! Food will be served on a firstcome first-serve basis. For more info 519-397-5455.

Tuesday, December 16, 2014 • Mitchell’s Bay Community Dinner at Bob N Buoys.

Doors open at 5:00pm. Dinner at 6;00pm. A donation of a non-perishable food item would be appreciated. Entertainment by Crystal Gage after dinner and draws throughout the night. Tickets are $10.00 per person available at Bob N Buoys, Mitchell’s Bay Variety and Parkside Restaurant.

• Euchre League at Branch 28 Legion, Clubroom, 304 St. Clair St. starting at 6:30pm. General Public Welcome. All levels of experience welcome to participate.

• Shuffleboard, pool and darts at Branch 628 Royal Canadian Legion, William & Colborne St., Chatham starting at 6:30pm.

• Movies @ Your Library. The Christmas Shoes will be shown at 2:00pm at the Chatham Branch of the CKPL. Starring Rob Lowe. Donated at the door.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014 • Open Dart League at Branch 28 Legion in the lower clubroom, 304 St. Clair St. starting at 7:00pm. All levels of experience welcome. Small nominal fee.

Thursday, December 18, 2014 • Thursday Afternoon Seniors Euchre at Branch 28 Legion, 304 St. Clair St. in the clubroom located in the lower level. All levels of experience are welcome to take part.

• Parents Make Presents. Parents are invited to drop in to the Children’s Room at the Chatham Branch of CKPL to make a seasonal story gift for their children. 6:00pm-7:00pm.

• Parlour Games. Drop in to the Children’s Room at the Chatham Branch of CKPL from 6:00pm-7:00pm to find out what kids did before computer & video games. Ages 8+.

Friday, December 19, 2014 • Friday evening Fun Darts League in the clubroom at Branch 28 Legion, 304 St. Clair St., Chatham starting at 7:00pm. All levels of expertise welcome to take part. Small nominal fee.

• MEMBER APPRECIATION NIGHT - Meal at Branch 628 Royal Canadian Legion, William & Colborne St., Chatham. Dinner at 5:30pm to 7:30pm. Turkey dinner only. Free to members. Non-member $8.00.

One meat draw. Everyone Welcome.

Saturday, December 20, 2014 • Bells Will Be Ringing - A Saturdays at 7 Christmas Concert at St. Andrew’s United Church, Chatham.

Free will offering. All are welcome. 7:00pm. Doors open at 6:30pm.

• Merry Maizie Day from 10:30am-11:30am. Enjoy a story time with mirth, general merry-making and Maizie, a registered therapy dog with St. John Ambulance. Drop by the Children’s Room of the Chatham Branch of the CKPL. • LEGO Club Christmas from 2:00pm-3:00pm in the Children’s Room at the Chatham Branch of CKPL. Join us for a Dickens Village LEGO challenge!

• Chatham Blood Donor Clinic at the Chatham Polish Canadian Club from 9:00am-12:00 noon. Call 1 888 2 DONATE. Walk in, Bring a Friend, Save a Life.

• Meat draw at Branch 628 Royal Canadian Legion, William & Colborne St., Chatham, from 4:30pm6:00pm followed by a dance at 6:30pm to 10:30pm featuring Barker and Allan.

CHAP Volunteer DRIVERS Needed for Chatham-Kent. CHAP helps Seniors live independently at home! Drive seniors to appointments, groceries, banking, etc. in Chatham-Kent. Contact Marjorie for further info CHAP 519-354-6221 ext. 241.

Chatham-Kent Metal Detecting Club Meetings - Last Thursday of the Month, 7:00pm at Evangel Community Church, 76 Sandy St., enter at the back door. Guests Welcome.

VON Volunteer Visiting opportunities available call Jan 519-352-4462 ext. 5227 Toastmasters is a place where you develop and grow - both personally and professionally. Meetings are a learn-by-doing workshop in which participants hone their speaking and leadership skills in a no-pressure atmosphere. Guests are always welcome. Join the Chatham-Kent Toastmasters at GreenField Ethanol, 275 Bloomfield Road on Mondays from 6:30 – 8:00pm.

HomeJames operates every Friday and Saturday night up to and including New Year’s Eve. HomeJames is also currently accepting youth group funding requests for the 2014 season. Please visit the website at www.homejames-ck.ca for info Submit your coming events to bruce@chathamvoice.com or michelle@chathamvoice.com

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 18

Fun Stuff 37 “Get lost!”

38 Decorative novelty 41 Prune 43 B&B 44 Change for a five 45 Stuff tossed overboard 47 Michael Phelps, e.g.

49 Wit 52 Coffee break hour 53 Favorite 54 “Rolling in the Deep” singer 55 Billboards 56 Storefront sign abbr.

57 Overcaffeinated

ACROSS 1 Throws 6 Golfer Ernie 9 Recipe meas.

12 Actress Sevigny 13 Diving bird 14 Greek H 15 Memorial rockpile 16 Straw hat 18 Wee

20 Chooses 21 Drone 23 Noshed 24 Got up 25 Raw minerals 27 Refrain syllables 29 Madden 31 Diminish 35 Miami stop on the PGA tour

DOWN 1 Junk bond rating 2 “Eureka!”

3 Thinner 4 Ms. Spelling 5 Cathartic drug 6 Time for an egg roll?

7 Darth’s kid 8 Tackle moguls 9 Beat 10 Undoes deles 11 Analyze grammar

17 Swamp 19 Say 21 Weeding need 22 Grecian vessel 24 Hearty brew 26 Cruelty 28 Apportion 30 Stickum 32 Shine softly 33 A billion years 34 Rouen refusal 36 Warnings 38 - Rica 39 Single 40 Jockey’s handful 42 “Poppycock!”

45 Scoff 46 German car 48 Speedometer stat 50 Bullring bravo 51 Crimson

Feel like your message is getting lost?

Call us for solutions to your insert overload.

Reach 20,000 customers each week with Chatham’s favourite community newspaper 84 Dover St., #2 519-397-2020

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

THE CHATHAM VOICE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

PAGE 19

CLASSIFIEDSFun

HOW TO PLACE YOUR AD IN PERSON: 84 DOVER ST. #2 CALL: 519-397-2020 FAX: 519-397-1177 EMAIL: FATIMA @CHATHAMVOICE.COM

Tea Connection Open at new location: 15 King St. East, (beside former Clems Books) 226671-0081.

Christmas Craft Sale 43 Houston December 13th & 14th. 10am4pm. Wreaths, Angels, glass block lamps & much more.

Christmas Trees U-CUT Scotch Pine, Norway Spruce, White Pine, up to 10ft. All trees $40. WATSON CHRISTMAS TREES, 7102 Grande River Line, 5kms west of St. Clair College. 519354-7271.

Announcements

Countryview Golf Course IPM meeting. December 16, 2014 at 9:00am.

Great place for family or work gatherings!

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Do You or Someone You Know Have any of These Conditions? Mental illness, difficulty walking, trouble dressing,irritable bowel, speech impediments...ALL conditions qualify.

Call Ontario Benefits 1-888-588-2937 ext.101

Renovations We make old new again!

•Drywall • Electrical • Carpentry • Plumbing • Painting • All Flooring • and much more

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For Sale

Auctions

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Mortgages Need Mortgage Money?

Offering private first mortgages, residential or commercial, reasonable rate. For more info call 519-436-7229 or email tiki@ sympatico.ca

Clearing an Estate, Downsizing, Liquidating Inventory or Decluttering?

We can help. Call to sell your items for cash or by consignment Call John @ 519-845-3663

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Stuff Answers Puzzles found on page 18

OBITUARIES Helga Miletic 85, Friday, November 28, 2014 McKinlay Funeral Home Marlene Charron 79, Wednesday, December 3, 2014 McKinlay Funeral Home Ken ‘Red’ Osborne 82, Friday, December 5, 2014 McKinlay Funeral Home Wayne Walter Bowles Saturday, December 6, 2014 McKinlay Funeral Home Dorothy Alexandria Thomas 88, Sunday, December 7, 2014 McKinlay Funeral Home Mr. Lloyd Rhan 85, Tuesday, December 2 , 2014 Alexander & Houle Funeral Home Mr. Marc King 64, Thursday, December 4 , 2014 Alexander & Houle Funeral Home Doug Brown 66, Sunday, November 30, 2014 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home Prosper M. Stirling 90, Wednesday, December 3, 2014 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

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Please call ROB 226-881-0305

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Announcements

ALL NEWS • NO FILLER • ALL NEWS • NO FILLER • ALL NEWS • NO FILLER • ALL NEWS • NO FILLER • ALL NEWS

“I READ IT

Quality Counts!

84 Dover St., #2, Chatham 519-397-2020 chathamvoice.com

ALL NEWS • NO FILLER • ALL NEWS • NO FILLER • ALL NEWS • NO FILLER • ALL NEWS • NO FILLER • ALL NEWS

THE CHATHAM VOICE

PAGE 20

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014

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Then take the short drive to Blenheim to Antiquated Joys and Treasures on Talbot.

You’ll find something for everyone, including that hard to buy for person.

They carry the Lampe Berger collection of fragrance lamps and oils, Realite candles and beautiful Christmas décor to make your home look and smell gorgeous for the holidays. Hosting friends and family? The Wildly Delicious gourmet foods will help wow your guests with one of a kind appetizers. Wrap up your shopping with their wonderful selection of affordable jewelley, April Cornell linens and so much more. You won’t be disappointed!

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Peifer Realty Brokerage

Penny Wilton, Broker 519-360-0315

Independently Owned & Operated 42 Talbot St. W., Blenheim

519-676-5444

penny@pennywilton.com Elliot Wilton, Sales Rep. 519-358-8755 • elliot@royallepage.ca

ANTIQUATED JOYS

69 Talbot St. W, Blenheim Phone 519-676-2371 www.antiquatedjoysblenheim.com

TREASURES ON TALBOT 57-B Talbot St. W, Blenheim Phone 519-676-0770

www.serenasofblenheim.com

75 Talbot St. W., Blenheim • 519-676-3384

Gift Giving Made Easy Shop our large selection of handbags or pick up a gift certificate

63 Talbot St Blenheim www.simplyshoes.ca 519-676-4922 155 King St. Downtown Chatham 519-352-6770

63 Talbot, Blenheim 519-676-4922 155 King St. Downtown Chatham 519-352-6770