The Chatham Voice, April 27, 2023

Active Lifestyle Centre Help Wanted

Position: Executive Director

Position Summary: The Executive Director of the “Active Lifestyle Centre” is responsible for the management of all elements of administration, financial endeavours, reports and parameters, future growth initiatives, as well as all day-to-day operations of the programming and staff of the Centre.

Board of Directors - Daily administration and management of the Centre is accordance with the policies established by the Board and develop procedures.

- Work closely with the Board of Directors and their Committees in the formation of policies, strategic planning, and financial parameters set out by the Board and Government policies.

- Attend all Board, Committee and staff meetings as well as supplying minutes, budgets parameters and Centre challenges. In accordance to Board Policies and Government Strategies. (Minutes, agendas, reports, etc.)

Staff/Program Management - Responsible for all staff hiring, issues, management and challenges.

- Develop an annual Marketing Plan with regards to Membership enhancements and Program development

- Identify issues, problems and concerns with regards to the functionality of the ALC. (Staff & Programming)

- Maintain personnel files and updates for all staff including training and management.

- Perform annual staff reviews and performance reports.

- Oversee all maintenance issues.

- On Call for building programs and staff issues.

- Delegate day to day operations

- Termination of staff if proven necessary on approval with the Board. (Pending Details)

Financial Responsibility - Monitor all expenditures and revenue on a monthly basis with reports, expectations and goals.

- Assist the Financial Committee (& Board) with the development of reports, balanced budgets, and assist with the development of long term financial plans, objectives and annual budget exceptions.

- Completion of all government required financial documentations grants and reports. (Grant applications as required)

- Fundraising with committee and staff Community Development - Develop a positive community profile

- Oversee and develop marketing initiative to increase memberships and community focus.

- Responsible to deal with all member issues and complaints. General Administration Skills Required - At least 5 years’ experience in Management and Financial skills required.

- Grant Writing experience.

- Staff/Management/ Volunteer Management.

- Communication, report writing and at least 5 years of appropriate executive experience.

- Strong computer skills

Send resume to: office@alcchatham.ca or call 519-352-5633 for more info.

Scary moment on Hwy. 401

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

What would you do if an SUV pulled up on your rear bumper and followed you aggressively?

The OPP said the safest thing to do is call 9-1-1.

The incident happened to a local woman recently on Highway 401 between Chatham and Windsor.

In a post on social media, Jackie Larose said she was in her car with her child and her dog when a large SUV with three men inside seemed to briefly terrorize her.

“I noticed in my mirror

a large SUV coming up in the fast lane. It got right beside me, with three men inside,” she said in her post. “They looked in my car, then slowed right down and got behind me very close.”

Larose said she was unable to get a license plate number. She saw an opening in the slow lane, so she said she pulled into it to let the SUV go by.

But it didn’t.

“They continued to stay close. I got nervous because this just seemed like strange behaviour, so I grabbed my phone,” she said, adding she has Blue

OFFICE CLOSED NOTICE TO CHATHAM-KENT-LEAMINGTON RESIDENTS

Effective Thursday, April 13, 2023 the Chatham office of MPP Trevor Jones will be closed for renovations until the week of May 7th, 2023. If you require any assistance, please contact the Leamington Office at 519-326-3367 (1-800-265-3992).

We will do our best to accommodate Chatham area residents as much as possible. The Leamington office will be open from 8 am – 4 pm Monday-Friday.

Office is located at 115 Erie Street North, Unit B. Our practice of “by appointment only” will continue.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and we will update our answering service as soon as our Chatham office re-opens. Thank you for your understanding. We look forward to continuing to serve Chatham-Kent-Leamington.

Office of MPP Trevor Jones

Tooth in her vehicle. “As soon as my phone was visible, the SUV took off, swerving in and out of traffic. I feel strongly these guys were up to no good.”

Const. Brett Phair, community safety officer with the OPP covering Chatham-Kent, said the best thing a person can do if they feel threatened or think they are in imminent danger is to call 9-1-1.

“This is true both while travelling in a vehicle or any other location. And, in general, if someone is considering calling 9-1-1 and they have any doubt if they should ... CALL!” he stressed. “The communication centre emergency operators will receive and direct the call to the appropriate resources.”

Phair said every incident

is different and it would be impossible to speak to what police would do after being contacted. He added that some of the OPP’s core functions is to prevent crime, improve public safety and investigate criminal and provincial offences.

“In the event that a 9-1-1 call was received outlining the circumstances of your email, our communication centre staff would obtain as much details from the caller as possible, the police would locate or direct the caller to a location to ensure their safety, and efforts would be made to locate and/or intercept the other vehicle and identify the parties involved, he said.

Continued on page 5

Remembering loved ones lost in workplace accidents

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

On July 19, 2021 Denise McEllistrum got the call no parent ever wants to receive. It was a Chatham-Kent Health Alliance employee on the line asking her to come to the hospital because her son Justin Martin had been injured.

Upon arrival she learned her 44-year-old son had died because of a workplace accident.

“I don’t want anybody to go through this,” McEllistrum told The Voice, her eyes misting over. “It keeps you awake at night. Everywhere I go in Chatham, I see Justin... cars...places.

“He was a loveable person who helped other people,” she said.

“His heart was pure.”

But though it’s raw and painful, McEllistrum and her daughter Tina Martin are willing to tell the story of their loss in the hope it can

save another family from a similar fate. They are doing so to mark Canada’s National Day of Mourning April 28 that commemorates the lives of Canadians who were injured or who have lost their lives while on the job.

According to previously published media reports, Martin was working on an elevated platform in Chatham when he fell and was reportedly not wearing a safety harness. An Ontario Ministry of Labour investigation into the matter is still ongoing.

At the time of his passing, Martin was an employee of Curran Expert Removal and Excavating Ltd. His family says his death could have been avoided with the proper use of safety equipment.

“The senselessness of these deaths is what makes it so tragic,” Tina said in a recent interview. “Justin’s death could have been prevented. He should have been tied off but he wasn’t.

“He wasn’t safe at all...there should have been somebody else there.”

Chatham-Kent Labour Council president Linda Reaume, who is related to Justin and knew him well, said his death was yet another preventable tragedy.

“Doing something after the fact isn’t good enough,” Reaume said. “When it comes to dangerous situations on the job, we can’t look the other way and workers need to look out for each other.

“If you see something, say something,” Reaume stressed.

According to Reaume a tight labour market, exacerbated by the effects of the pandemic sometimes leads to employers – and employees – cutting corners.

Plus, she said, some workers, such as new Canadians who may not understand the language are especially vulnerable, afraid to challenge authority in an unsafe situation.

Continued on page 5

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Denise McEllistrum, Chatham-Kent Labour Council president Linda Reaume and her daughter Tina Martin, hold a picture of Justin Martin, who perished in a workplace accident in 2021. The two are sharing their story to commemorate the National Day of Mourning on April 28.

Feel threatened on the road? Call 9-1-1

Continued from page 2

“This would be followed with a thorough investigation to determine what, if any, laws had been violated and charges laid if appropriate.”

Larose’s advice to other women when driving?

“Make sure if you are travelling alone or with children, beware of your surroundings,” she said.

Phair offered a list of things a person can do to protect themselves and provide the opportuni-

ty for the best outcome when faced with this type of emergency are as follows:

• Call 9-1-1 as soon as possible.

• Know where you are and keep police updated: The road you are on, the direction you are traveling, the closest/last intersection or overpass you passed, any landmarks, mile markers, etc.

• Provide your own information: The vehicle you are driving, your li-

Protect first, produce second

Continued from page 4

“I’m not saying that all employers are bad, but some put production over protection,” Reaume added. “We need worker to worker education and health and safety education in all workplaces,” she said. “Justin’s death should never have happened. He was one of those guys who was so kind and friendly.”

Both McEllistrum and her daughter will be attending a ceremony at the Chatham Labour Gardens across from Canadian Tire on Grand Avenue in Chatham on April 28. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. and everyone is welcome.

“I am going to keep him (Justin) alive at this ceremony,” McEllistrum said, noting tragedies like Justin’s death affect the entire community.

cence plate, who’s with you, alternate contact info (if there is more than one cell phone in the vehicle), etc.

• Collect the details and tell the dispatcher/police. Every little piece of information helps. Description of the vehicle and the occupants. Anything you remember or see/hear/ smell can be helpful.

• If in a vehicle, maintain safe driving habits.

• Police will likely provide instructions as to

where to drive your vehicle and meet with the investigator, but until that time, if possible, stay in populated areas or make efforts to travel to one or a known place of safety such as a local police station or detachment.

Workplace deaths needless tragedy

Although we live in a world with a never-ending debate over rights, there is a right over which virtually no one should disagree.

The right to come home safely after a day of work.

In 2021, nearly 1,100 Canadians didn’t make it home. They died on the job.

April 28 is the National Day of Mourning in Canada, during which Canadians pause to remember those who have died or suffered injury or illness in the workplace.

That date was chosen in 1984 by the Labour Congress of Canada to coincide with the 70th anniversary of the first Ontario Worker’s Compensation Act. The Day of Mourning was enshrined in national legislation by an Act of Parliament on Feb. 1, 1991 and is now recognized in 100 countries around the globe.

Canadian flags on Parliament Hill and at Queen’s Park fly at half-staff on April 28.

We reached out to the family of Justin Martin in this week’s edition. They were kind enough to share the

story of their son’s death in 2021. Nearly two years later, the pain and regret of a life lost too soon is still seared into their consciousness.

Their story is one of grief that resonates beyond the immediate family and throughout the community.

Each fatality is singular in its manner, but each one evokes the same sense of loss and tragedy in a cumulative sense.

An average of 935 workers have died each year in Canada since 2009. That’s more than two people per day who don’t come home at the end of their shift.

We can do better.

Awareness is the first step. That’s why the ceremonies, the speeches and the lowering of flags are important. Each year, a new group of workers enters the economy. Some need to remember. Others need to learn for the first time.

The next step is the realization that everyone needs to play a role. No one group, government, employers or employees can achieve a safe workplace. It takes all of us.

Our letters to the editor policy

The Chatham Voice welcomes letters to the editor. Our preferred method to receive letters is via e-mail to bruce@ chathamvoice.com (use “Letter” in the subject line).

You can also drop them off or mail

Lack of representation

Editor: I think our newly elected Member of Provincial Parliament has done nothing for our constituency to date.

them to us at The Chatham Voice, 71 Sass Rd., Unit 4, Chatham, Ont, N7M 5J4.

The Chatham Voice reserves the right to edit letters to the editor for brevity and clarity. All letters need to be signed.

Chatham Voice advertising policy

The publisher of this newspaper, CK Media Inc., reserves the right to clarify or refuse any advertisement based on its sole discretion. The publisher reserves the right to reject, discontinue or omit any advertisement without notice

The greenbelt issue is but one of several issues that have been unaddressed in Chatham-Kent-Leamington for years. Not unlike his Tory predecessor, Trevor Jones seems satisfied to keep his head down, his name out of contentious local issues and his opinions to himself.

each and every meet ing. Council and the mayor could direct administration to report every week on what M.P.P. Trevor Jones has done to advocate for our constituency. Not necessarily to embarrass him, but all in an attempt to resolve some of our longstanding problems here in the riding.

ince finally recognize that we are a rural, not an urban constituency. Would you not think that Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Monte McNaughton, reportedly waiting in the wings for Doug Ford’s demise as party leader, would be interested in resolving some of the problems faced by the people he is supposed to be representing?

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. A member of:

The contents of this newspaper are protected by copyright. No material from this edition may be reproduced without expressed written consent of CK Media Inc.

Truly, as a voting citizen, I can say I have never met him, seen him or heard him speak publicly. Nor does he seem to be known to the local media. I have never seen his picture, a quote attributed to him or an op/ed authored by him in the local newspapers. It borders on the ridiculous that, as a constituent interested in the political process, I would not even be able to pick him out of a police line up.

I have a suggestion for the newly elected municipal counsel that ties in nicely. Perhaps counsel could move to adopt a standing agenda item for

In this way, the public, as well as council, would know the people he has talked to, what doors he has knocked on at Queen’s Park, what cabinet ministers has he conferred with, what correspondence was sent and to whom, all in an effort to represent Chatham-Kent–Leamington..

As a brief, and probably, incomplete recap of issues to look at, we have the greenbelt issue; erosion along the Lake Erie shoreline; the Wheatley explosion; water wells in North Kent; and in an effort to receive provincial subsidies, grants and admission to numerous programs, have the prov-

I am sure that both Jones and McNaughton will argue many of these “problems” are not in their jurisdiction or that these issues are actually being looked at, studied thoroughly, etc. Or some such “politico speak” nonsense.

I am simply looking for municipal council to somehow put Jones’ and McNaughton’s proverbial feet to the fire. Our constituency deserves provincial representation that will genuinely fight for our riding, advocating for the people.

Dan Kelly Chatham

Amber Pinsonneault Broker of Record Cell 519-784-5310

APR

1-3PM Check out this 4br, 2 bath, 4 level home with June

Lovely brick ranch style. 3br, 1 bath, full basement, garage, shed. Call Brian

Cute as a button! 3br, 1 bath, on ground pool with wrap around deck. Call Krista Mall.

pool, recroom, bar, exercise room. Call Wayne Liddy.

Marco Acampora* 519-784-4348

Ashley Amato* 519-365-5677

Dane Appleton* 519-436-7195

Kelly-Anne Appleton* 519-365-7155

Stephen Carroll* 519-355-9774

Anna-Marie Clark* 519-354-7890

Ron Collins* 519-401-8464

Lisa Everaert* 519-330-8548

Eric Fitzgerald* 519-436-4865

Michael Gibbons* 519-365-5634

Jeff Godreau* 519-365-4852

Darren Hart* 226-627-8580

Michelle Hetherington 519-401-2635*

Gwen Liberty* 519-784-3646

Wayne Liddy* 519-436-4810

Commercial. Own a piece of history! 1896 Octogonal barn was rebuilt in 2013. Call Kristen or Amber.

Krista Mall* 519-365-7462

June McDougall* 519-358-5199

Sylvia Moffat** 519-355-8189

Ghassan Najjar** 519-355-8668

Heather Najjar** 519-355-8666

For Lease. 2 br, 2 bath, light and bright, pantry closet. Call Chris Papple.

AVE #9 • $12/SQ.FT.

location! 7 offices, boardroom and 2 bathrooms. Call Brian Peifer.

Pride of ownership. 2br, 2 bath, coffee station, fireplace. Call Lisa Zimmer.

Cass Opiela* 519-355-7804

Meg Palin* 226-627-2078

Chris Papple* 519-350-1402

Brian Peifer** 519-436-2669

Elizabeth Peifer* 519-436-8959

Patrick Pinsonneault** 519-360-0141

Chris Polley* 905-903-0505

Scott Poulin* 519-350-5320

Katherine Rankin* 226-542-2964

Deborah Rhodes* 519-401-5470

David Smith* 519-350-1615

Michael Smyth* 519-784-5470

Chris Spafford* 519-917-2635

Kate Stenton* 519-436-8377

Carson Warrener* 519-809-2856

Cindy Weaver** 519-360-0628

Ashley Wilton* 519-437-7564

Elliot Wilton* 519-358-8755

Tori Winters* 226-881-0334

Lisa Zimmer* 519-365-7325

• $529,900

McDougall.

Attention Investors. Commerical property with 3 rented units. Call Ron Collins.

Updated & stunning. 2br, 1 bath, large lot, wooden deck. Call Krista Mall.

8 STANDAERT • $369,900 9 PROSPECT, TILBURY $399,900

52 SEMENYN • $425,000 OFFER PENDING 312 BRUCE, WALLACEBURG $244,900 90 KERR • $2,150/MTH 22220 CHARING CROSS #46 $289,900

Peifer.

Southside Estates. 2br, 1.5 baths, mobile home, gas fireplace. Call Elliot or Ashley Wilton.

Lucas reflects on 10 years at ALC

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

For more than a decade, Linda Lucas has served as executive director of the Active Lifestyle Centre (ALC). That all changes on May 1. Lucas is stepping down to open a new chapter in her life, and has no regrets

about her time with the ALC.

“I just felt that I have committed a decade of my life to community work. I work a lot. I’m going to slow down and concentrate on family,” she told The Chatham Voice. “I have grandkids.”

Lucas said she loved her time at the ALC and likes

what the future should hold for the organization.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time here. There are hundreds of supportive people, friends and good relationships here,” she said. “There has been a supportive board of directors along the way.”

She said the pandemic did make it a challenge to

keep the ALC open and active.

“Like everything else, the pandemic was very hard on us. But the centre is bouncing back. I feel I’m leaving at a good time,” Lucas said.

There are a number of improvements slated for the ALC over the next 24 months, she added, including new handicap supports.

“Those past boards of directors, all their hard work is finally coming to fruition,” she said. “Once I got confirmation (on funding), I thought now is a good time (to move on).”

The board is actively seeking Lucas’ replacement at this time.

As for what the future holds for her, Lucas merely hinted at where she will be.

“I have always worked in hospitality my whole life. I believe that’s where my heart is,” she said.

Lucas is proud of a num-

ber of accomplishments over the past decade for the ALC.

Continued on page 10

Contributed image Linda Lucas and one of her grandchildren, Aurora, share a moment. They’ll be sharing more of those in the near future as Lucas will soon be stepping down as executive director of the Active Lifestyle Centre to spend more time with family.

Leeuwens help put pork on your fork

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

When it comes to The Whole Hog, Wouter and Sarah Leeuwen are all in.

The Ridgetown-area pork producers have lent their favorite pork recipe to a new cookbook put out by Ontario Pork. Released on Canada Agriculture

Day in February, the 200page book features recipes, stories and tips from people from every aspect of the pork supply chain. It tells the story of local food producers like the Leeuwens, while high-

lighting the system’s safety and sustainability. Besides being a resource for all things pork, the book also benefits the needy. Sales from The Whole Hog will be used to support Feed Ontario – a network that supplies and connects food banks across Ontario. 2023 marks a decade of partnership between Ontario Pork and Feed Ontario.

‘Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin’ – a generational staple at the Leeuwen house, is the recipe submitted by Wouter and Sarah.

The couple both describe

it as the “perfect recipe.”

“It’s a tradition for our family and something we’ve been doing for years,” Wouter explained.

Sarah said the couple, who run a 2,200-sow farrow to finish operation with locations both in and outside of Chatham-Kent, believe the book is a “great example” that shows how the industry moves pork from the farm to the plate.

“It shows that pork is a safe, healthy and nutritious food,” Sarah added.

“People across the supply chain believe in what they are doing when it comes to the process and the

product.”

The recipe has passed the test. All of the submissions were reviewed and tested by renowned Guelph chef and cookbook author Emily Richards, who said she was “honoured” to be part of the process.

“Using pork has been a long tradition in my family and continues to be a staple in my home,” Richards explained.

The Whole Hog can be purchased for $35.39 online at shop.ontariopork. on.ca and select retail outlets.

Contributed image Sarah and Wouter Leewuen, Ridgetown-area pork producers, have a recipe featured in a new cookbook.

Know your tax options

Ridgetown branches.

The Chatham-Kent Public Library (CKPL) is partnering with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to provide an overview of benefits and credits for low to modest income individuals.

This virtual information session will take place on May 2 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. online or in person. The online session is a Zoom meeting, which will be shown live at CKPL’s Blenheim, Chatham, Dresden and

During this information session, a CRA representative will provide information on available benefits and credits, benefit estimates, advice for maintaining your benefits and credits, an introduction to CRA services and tools, and will offer document instructions.

Anyone interested is asked to register in-person at your local CKPL branch or by phone at 519-3542940, text at 519-401-7174, e-mail to CKlibrary@chatham-kent.ca.

Family time for Lucas

Continued from page 8

They include an improved working relationship with the municipality, extensive space rental by various service clubs and ethnic groups in the community, the development of seniors fairs, building and parking lot improvements – “all the things the centre needs, we’ve worked together on really hard.”

The pandemic hurt more than the ALC. Seniors centres across the province took a beating.

“Memberships are extremely down. Some have not reopened,” Lucas said, and others are strug-

gling to make ends meet.

“I don’t think people understand the work that goes into organizations like this. We’re basically open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. four-five days a week. It truly is great for the community,” she said.

Lucas urges the community to support the ALC.

“The programs are starting to come back. We are probably up to 50 programs,” she said. “We have paint classes and cooking classes in the evenings as well. There are lots of good things happening, but the centre absolutely needs community support.”

The Chatham Voice

United Way marks 75 years in C-K

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

As the United Way of Chatham-Kent (UWOCK) celebrates 75 years serving the community, its staff wish to thank the giving people of this municipality.

Karen Green, marketing and communications manager for UWOCK, said the generosity remains ever present.

“I think it’s just that we’ve always had such a wonderful, supportive community,” she said. “There has always been a partnership. This has continued, no matter what the year-to-year model is.”

UWOCK has served the Chatham-Kent community since 1948, working to help strengthen the community’s social safety net.

Established in Kent

County with the help of volunteers from the Chamber of Commerce and Labour Council, UWOCK’s first campaign was chaired by Sydney Amherst Morse, at the time the president and general manager of Union Gas (Enbridge). That would mark the beginning of a significant and lasting partnership with the energy company that continues to this day.

Green said the community effort that’s lasted three-quarters of a century is worthy of recognition.

“Seventy-five years is a milestone worth celebrating, and we will be, with a community appreciation event already in the works for this summer and a number of special moments planned for throughout the year,” she said.

With an emphasis on the collaborative aspect of UWOCK’s work, Green said the focus for their anniversary year is reflected in the 2023 theme:

75 Years of a Caring Community.

She stressed what UWOCK does is just not possible without the support it receives.

“We really want to thank the community. We just want to show our appreciation,” she said. “Not a lot of groups can do it for this long, especially in a smaller community.”

She added, “We’ve come a long way since that first campaign in 1948 raised a little over $50,000, and we are so grateful that we get to continue to do this work in our community.”

Over the 75 years, UWOCK has raised more than $65 million locally.

Green said the goal of

UWOCK is to help those who need it the most, something that hasn’t changed.

“I think we are constantly looking at the needs of the community and working to see how we can best serve the needs of the vulnerable,” she said. “We’re spending our time and energy and funds where they really need to go in the community and we’ll continue to do that.”

Green said the pandemic only put more pressure on UWOCK and its member agencies, as well as other groups that support our vulnerable citi -

Asian festival set for April 29

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Spring has sprung and with it comes the return of the Chatham-Kent Asian Cultural Association’s Spring Music & Food Festival on April 29.

Open to everyone, the event will be held at the Chatham W.I.S.H. Centre beginning at 5:30 p.m.

According to organizer Maru Lakshmanan, spring is special to the Indian community and is marked around the world with names such as Baisaki, Puthand, Vishu, Pohela and Pana Sankaranthi.

The festival signals a new beginning, Lakshmanan said, getting it back on track after it being on hold due of the pandemic.

“Everyone knows in the past two years; we couldn’t do anything,” he said. “The CK association would like to do something to break that and we want to celebrate spring events.”

Founded in 1999, the association now has around 600 members who hail from international Asian communities. Most community mem-

zens.

“The pandemic really did make things worse

for a lot of people. We saw more need from more people,” she said.

bers are from Sub Himalayan (South Asian) countries.

Health-care support for migrant workers

By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative The Ridgetown Independent

The Chatham Kent Community Health Centres recently announced the expansion of its Primary Health Care team to support temporary foreign workers in Chatham-Kent.

The CKCHC team currently provides primary

care to workers on two local farms – Truly Green and Greenhill Produce. With the support and funding from Ontario Health, the CKCHC can extend services to more farms so all temporary workers will have more accessible access to primary care during their stay in Canada.

The CKCHC team, led by a nurse practitioner, a

registered practical nurse and a health promoter, is equipped to provide medical assessments to workers who require health care for acute needs, prescription renewals and health education, and offer influenza vaccination clinics during flu season.

“Our team has had wonderful success in reducing barriers to access to

care for temporary foreign workers,” said Mallory Nowakowski, Clinical and Client Services Manager at CKCHC.

“By providing onsite care, we have reduced emergency room visits and provided early intervention to prevent serious health concerns.”

The CKCHC team has contacted various local farms to understand the

unique health-care needs of temporary foreign workers. The data collected will better explain their challenges when addressing health-care services in a new country.

Expanding services as a result, the CKCHC Primary Health Care outreach team can provide additional onsite medical services on top of their existing support.

This expansion aligns with the CKCHC’s values and model of care and its commitment to providing accessible and equitable health-care services to all community members, regardless of their background or circumstances. For more information about the program, interested farms are to contact Michelle Powers at 226626-7876.

Feast time!

Diverse cultures join to celebrate

Continued from page 11

However, there is an increasing number from the Middle East. The group includes the CK Muslim community, the CK Hindu community, the CK Sikh community, the CK Malayalee community and the CK Nepali community, among others.

eryone with a way to meet and get to know each other,” he added.

Festival.

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

The Chatham Catholic Family of Parishes Spirit and Life Centre was filled with the smell of baking bread recently as members of the Italian community, and others, gathered to prepare for the Festa della Madonna Delle Grazie. The tortani bread is shared during the feast of the Blessed Mary. Here, Amanda Primeau, left, Maria Devito, Malfada Decola and Grace Magliaro are busy rolling dough.

Lakshmanan said that Chatham is a place for new immigrants to start their life in Canada and the festival is a great way to network.

“With this community event, we are connecting ev-

Lakshmanan said many Asian people have started businesses in the region and increasingly, students are coming to Chatham-Kent to attend St. Clair College. The CKACA supports the community in a variety of ways donating to various agencies such as the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance and the Chatham-Kent Hospice and it also hosts annual events such as the Diwali

Tickets for the Spring Festival are $20 for adults, $15 for college students and $10 for Grades 6-12. Children in Grade 5 and under are free. For more information call 519-380-5973. Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m.

Community Events

Thursday, April 27, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. open 11:00am-9:30pm. Lunch served 11:00am-1:30pm. Senior euchre at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

• Merlin Legion, 2 Stanley St Jam Session. 1-4:30pm. Everyone welcome to attend. Panzerotti Special 4-7pm, deluxe or customize $12.61+tax. To order call 519689-4884. Mixed Euchre at 7pm. Everyone welcome to attend. Light potluck lunch to follow. For more info please call Eric @ 519-689-7555

Friday, April 28, 2023:

• Adult Colouring at the CKPL Chatham Branch Community Living Café. 2pm-4pm. Come and connect with people of all ages and skill levels while colouring away the stress of the day. No registration required, come and go as you please.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Lunch served 11:00am-1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00-6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials: liver & onions or fish & chips. Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone Welcome.

• Merlin Legion, 2 Stanley St. Dinner choices: homemade meatloaf or order from the menu (dinner includes mashed or fresh cut fries, gravy, veggies, bun + dessert) Served 4:307pm. Call to order 519-689-4884.

• Chatham-Kent Public Library

PA Day Fun! Blenheim Branch: Storytelling 10am-3pm. Drop-in. Bothwell Branch: Spring Fling. 10am -1pm. Chatham Branch: Can You Dig It? 9:30am-5pm. All ages. Drop-in. Dresden Branch: Monkey Madness. 10am-3pm. Drop-in. Highgate Branch: Lego. 10am-3pm. Drop-in, all ages. Tilbury Branch: Save the Animals! 12pm-5pm. Ridgetown Branch: Sphero Bolts. 12pm-5pm. Drop-in. Ages 4+. Tween/Teen Fun 1pm-2pm. Tweens/Teens ages 9-16 are welcome to make a woolen bookmark. Drop-in. Wallaceburg Branch: Superhero Training Academy. 10am-4pm. All ages welcome. Drop-in.

Saturday, April 29, 2023:

• Morning Breakfast Program at First Presbyterian Church (corner of Fifth St. and Wellington). A delicious and nutritious breakfast served free of charge 9:30-10:30am. Take out only.

• “SPRING FLING” Craft & Vendor show at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 800 Murray St. Wllc from 9am-

Fun Stuff

1pm. Hosted by Holy Family Catholic Women’s League. Baked goods and numerous vendors including crafts, home decor, housewares, spices, soaps, jewelry, beads and more.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Lunch served 3:00pm-5:30pm. Entertainment by D.A.M. Band from 4:309:30. Come check out our menu. Everyone Welcome.

• Spring Indoor Yardsale at Campbell AME Church, Corner of King St E & Prince St S. Lots of one of a kind items. Homemade bake Goods 8:30am to noon. Also available for purchase will be sausage on a bun, hot cross buns, tea and coffee. All Welcome!!

• Stuart Wicks will perform live at the Chatham Retirement Resort at 2:00pm. Call today for more info or to RSVP 519-351-7777 ext.526. 25 Keil Dr. N., Chatham.

• Asian Cultural Association Presents Spring Music & Food Festival. Doors open at 5:30pm at the Wish Centre, 177 King St., Chatham. Adults $20, Students $15, Grades 6-12 $10; Grade 5 & under free. Food & Music included in price. For more information contact: Laxman 519-380-5973.

• Ridge Players of Ridgetown presents “Golden Memories”, showcasing 50 years of Ridge Players favourites. 7:30pm. Tickets $20 available at Mittons and Mocha Violet, Ridgetown, and The Purple Door, Blenheim. Pick up only. Wheelchair accessible.

Sunday, April 30, 2023:

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

• The CK Singers Community Choir Spring Concert 2pm at First Presbyterian Church, 60 Fifth St Chatham. A medley of 50’s hits, a bit of Beethoven, Broadway tunes and both American and Canadian folk songs. Special guests include Aimee Clifford, Holly McCubbin on flute, Amy Tapley on French horn, and Andrew Derynck. Freewill offering. All are welcome!

• Ridge Players of Ridgetown presents “Golden Memories, showcasing 50 years of Ridge Players favourites. 2:00pm. Tickets $20, available at Mittons & Mocha Violet, Ridgetown, and The Purple Door, Blenheim. Pick up only. Wheelchair accessible.

Tuesday, May 2, 2023:

• Chess Club at Chatham Branch of CKPL. 6pm-8pm. Drop in program. Learn new strategies by playing with different players. All ages and all skill levels are welcome.

• Chatham-Kent Public Library (CKPL) is partnering with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to provide an overview of benefits and credits for low to modest income individuals. This virtual information session will take place from 6:00-7:30 pm. This session will be shown live at CKPL’s in Blenheim, Chatham, Dresden and Ridgetown. Register for this free session in-person at your local CKPL branch or by contacting us by phone 519-354-2940, text 519-401-7174, email CKlibrary@chatham-kent.ca. Facebook @CKPLibrary/.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Lunch served 11:30am-1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Euchre at 1:00pm. Shuffleboard at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Wednesday, May 3, 2023:

• Sprucedale United Church Broasted Chicken Dinner. 4:30-6:30pm, drive-thru only. 493 Victoria Ave., Chatham. Includes all the fixings. Adults $20.00. Children under 12 $10.00. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and picked up prior to the event. Please email sprprov@gmail. com with your information or call the Church office at 519-354-0060 and leave message.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Lunch served 11:30am-1:30pm. Daily special is meatloaf dinner. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Thursday, May 4, 2023:

• Chatham-Kent Public Library is hosting author Silvia Moreno-Garcia for a virtual author talk at 2pm via Zoom. Silvia’s talk will be broadcast live at CKPL’s Chatham, Blenheim, Dresden, Ridgetown, Tilbury and Wallaceburg branches. Community members can watch Silvia’s visit by registering for the program link by phoning 519-354-2940, texting 519-401-7174, emailing cklibrary@ chatham-kent.ca

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm. Lunch served 11:00am–1:30pm. Senior euchre at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Send your events to bruce@chathamvoice.com or michelle@chathamvoice.com

CLUES ACROSS

1. It’s all over the beach

5. A cirque

8. Corpuscle count (abbr.)

11. Influential report author

13. Satisfaction

14. Recurring only at long intervals

15. Islamic calendar month

16. Neither

17. Gelatinous substance

18. American electronic music producer

20. Old computer system

21. Professional organization

22. Malaria mosquitoes

25. Not composed of matter

30. It’s in the ocean

31. Peyton’s little brother

32. French commune

33. Eyelashes

38. Equal (prefix)

41. Quality of little or no rain

43. One who beheads

45. Sung to

48. Influential punk artist

49. Amount of time

50. Polio vaccine developer

55. Abba __, Israeli politician

56. Job

57. Flat-bottomed sailboat

59. Japanese wooden clog

60. Folk singer DiFranco

61. FL city

62. Naturally occurring solid

63. Language of indigenous Asian people

64. Dark brown CLUES DOWN

1. Soviet Socialist Republic

2. Zoroastrian concept of holy fire

3. Venomous snake genus

4. Uninteresting

5. Straightforwardness

6. Expression of wild excitement

7. Arrange in order

8. East Indian cereal grass

9. Hillsides

10. Bird beak covering

12. Baseball stat

14. Edge of a surfboard

19. Wrapping accessory

23. Express approval

24. Deduce

25. Similar

26. Born of

27. Automobile

28. Obliged to repay

29. Live in

34. Influential journalist Tarbell

35. Set aflame

36. OJ trial judge

37. Scottish town

39. African nation

40. Egg-shaped wind instrument

41. Mimic

42. Frees

44. In slow tempo

45. Sword

46. Related on the mother’s side

47. Mars crater

48. Plant of the lily family

51. Suitable in the cir cumstances

52. Hillside

53. Metrical foot

54. Amazon river tributary

58. Adult male human

Obituary Anniversary

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Eric Chamberlain at the age of 92 years, on April 15, 2023 at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance in Chatham, Ontario. Beloved husband of the late Elsie Chamberlain (2012). Loving father of Mark Chamberlain (Lee Ann) and David Chamberlain (Deborah). Remembered and missed by grandchildren, Gareth and Rhiannon (Mark), Christopher, David and Katelyn (David), extended family in both Canada and the UK, and longtime friends and neighbours. Predeceased by his brothers Ken, Alun and Wynn of Holyhead, Wales. Eric was born in Holyhead, Wales, UK in 1931. After graduating from school and apprenticing in Rugby, England as a mechanical engineer, Eric married the love of his life, Elsie, and together they immigrated to Canada in 1954 to start their new life in Windsor, Ontario and later to reside in Chatham. Eric was an industry expert in high pressure gas cylinders and, along with two partners, established and operated a factory in Tilbury, Ontario which produced and sold these cylinders. Eric became a Canadian citizen but never lost his Welsh roots and often told stories of growing up in the port city of Holyhead in North Wales. As a boy, Eric loved to play soccer and continued his love for the sport throughout his life. If Manchester United was on television, you could always find him front and centre cheering for his favourite team. A private family gathering will occur at a later date to celebrate Eric’s life. Those wishing to made a donation in memory of Eric are asked to consider the Kidney Foundation of Canada. Arrangements entrusted to Life Transitions Burial and Cremation Service Inc.

For Sale

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

In memory of our brother

ARTHUR WILSON who passed away 6 years ago - April 25

& BOBCAT SWEEPER SERVICE

519-354-9157

Ministry

Healing Love Ministry is an all night prayer line with counsellors available from 12:00am-7:00am. Also, a male support group for those struggling with sexual addiction. A home based ministry, private and confidential. 519-354-3532.

$40. 519-3543411

Wanted

Wanted to rent or buy 3 or 4 acres of land in Chatham-Kent area. No buildings or utilities needed. Rural area preferred. 519-352-5414 or 226-627-5414.

Whether you are looking to purchase a home, refinance your mortgage, or consolidate debt, it’s important that you are making an educated decision and receiving professional unbiased advice.

It broke our hearts to lose you but you did not go alone. A part of us went with you the day God called you home.

We love and miss you, your sisters.

Wanted

Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-727-8894.

Registration

Wanted

Wanted: scrap air conditioners and electric motors. Will pick up anything. Phone 226-229-2614.

Coming Event

YOU’RE INVITED

OBITUARIES

Marie Ann Caron 101, Thrusday, April 13, 2023

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Jose Silva

78, Thrusday, April 13, 2023

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Mary Van Den Diepstraten

77, Saturday, April 15, 2023

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Wayne Delanghe

59, Saturday, March 11, 2023

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Mark Townsend

70, Wednesday, April 19, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Marilyn (Lynn) Cecile

Wednesday, March 29, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Brenna Elizabeth John-George

24, Saturday, April 15, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Bernice Countryman

81, Monday, April 17, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Natalie Anne Robert

34, Tuesday, April 18, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Lucille Marie Cooper

98, Tuesday, April 18, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Kenneth Owen Dunlop

81, Wednesday, April 19, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Hendrikje “Henny” Lankhof

94, Wednesday, April 19, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Teresa Jean Jones

52, Tuesday, April 18 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Susan Way

59, Tuesday, April 18, 2023

Kendrick Funeral Home

Steve Broad

59, Saturday, April 15, 2023

Nicholls Funeral Home

Joseph Fernand Henri Daigneault

90, Saturday, April 17, 2023

Nicholls Funeral Home

Joan McKitterick (nee Osborne)

94, Tuesday, April 11, 2023

Life Transitions

Eric Chamberlain

92, Saturday, April 15, 2023

Life Transitions

Debra Waekens (Stevens)

65, Sunday, April 16 2023

Life Transitions

David Marriott

Monday, April 17, 2023

Life Transitions

In Memoriam

Active Retirement Starts at Home

Opening This Spring

When you’re not immersed in your scenic surroundings, enjoy the hospitality and excitement that awaits you at The Maples! Designed to meet your desires for comfort and community, The Maples features a hair & nail salon, a library and TV room, a private dining room, a chapel, and so much more. From events and activities to new friends who are just like you, every day can be lived just the way you want. It’s your life, and it’s time to live it your way!