Author: Mohsin Abbas

By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) has issued a flood outlook for smaller watercourses and the Thames River, warning of potential localized flooding as warm temperatures and rainfall increase runoff into waterways.

Daytime highs reached 10 degrees Celsius in Ridgetown, 12 degrees in Windsor, and 7 degrees in London on Tuesday, accelerating snowmelt across the region. Some areas with lower initial snow accumulation have already seen significant melt. Trace amounts of precipitation were also recorded.

A weather system moving into the region Wednesday afternoon is expected to bring between 3 and 10 millimetres of rain over the next 24 hours. Temperatures will remain slightly above freezing overnight before dipping below freezing again Thursday night into Friday morning. These conditions will contribute to additional snowmelt and runoff.

Smaller watercourses in the region have already been affected by the snowmelt, with some experiencing blockages due to broken ice and debris. This has led to ponding, standing water, and localized flooding in certain areas.

While water levels in some watercourses have begun to recede, further rain and melting could cause levels to rise again. The LTVCA has indicated that it may need to operate the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel if necessary. Authorities urge residents to consider any remaining ice on local waterways unsafe and to avoid it.

The Thames River is also responding to the recent thaw, with water levels rising and ice separating from the riverbanks in many areas. Some sections of the river have seen ice melt where warm water has entered, though a full breakup of river ice is not expected at this time. Officials warn that the ice on the Thames River remains unstable and should be avoided. Flooding from the river is not anticipated at this stage.

Residents are urged to stay clear of rivers, ditches, and streams, as slippery banks, unstable ice, and fast-moving cold water pose significant risks. Standing water may also conceal unseen hazards. Parents and pet owners are advised to keep children, pets, and livestock away from water bodies.

Officials will continue monitoring conditions and provide updates as needed. This advisory remains in effect until Feb. 28.

By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

A freezing rain warning has been issued for Tilbury and the surrounding Chatham-Kent area, with hazardous travel conditions expected throughout the day. Environment Canada cautioned residents of the dangerous conditions caused by ice accumulation on roads, sidewalks, and power lines.

The freezing rain, which began late Wednesday evening, is expected to continue through the day, with up to 10 millimetres of ice accumulation possible in some areas. The icy conditions are causing reduced visibility and slippery roads, making travel hazardous, particularly on untreated surfaces.

Chatham-Kent residents are being urged to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Local authorities have issued travel advisories and warned that conditions could worsen throughout the day. Drivers should exercise caution and reduce speed, especially on secondary roads that may not be treated immediately.

Local authorities are preparing for the storm by issuing winter weather alerts and readying snow-clearing equipment. Chatham-Kent Public Works has urged drivers to exercise caution and reduce speed while traveling during the storm.

In addition to the road safety concerns, the storm may also cause power outages in certain areas, especially if tree branches are weighed down by snow and ice. Hydro One has been monitoring the situation and is ready to respond to power disruptions. Residents are advised to keep flashlights, batteries, and essential supplies on hand.

The winter storm is expected to taper off by Friday morning, with conditions gradually improving throughout the day. However, the Chatham-Kent area is likely to experience lingering snow and cold temperatures, so residents should remain prepared for continued winter conditions.

By: Mike Su, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Since 2013, Noelle’s Gift to Children has been providing students in Sarnia-Lambton and Chatham-Kent with the essentials they need to succeed. Established in memory of Noelle Paquette, a passionate educator, the organization continues her legacy of kindness and generosity.

Noelle Paquette was known for going above and beyond for her students, ensuring they had meals, school supplies and proper clothing. Although her life was tragically cut short, her impact lives on through Noelle’s Gift, which has supported students for over a decade.

The organization offers a variety of programs aimed at helping students, including the Student Nutrition Program, which provides healthy snacks to support learning, and the Noelle’s Gift Closet Initiative, which stocks schools with essential items. Schools also have access to emergency funds for daily necessities, and all Grade 1 students receive a Noelle’s Gift water bottle to promote hydration and healthy habits. Additionally, Noelle’s Gift supports community initiatives such as family fun days and other student-focused programs.

Now, Noelle’s Gift to Children is expanding its presence in Chatham-Kent. Caress Lee has been named chairperson for the newly established Chatham-Kent chapter. A lifelong resident of Chatham-Kent and Public Relations officer for the Lambton Kent District School Board, Lee sees firsthand the impact Noelle’s Gift has on students.

“Although I was familiar with Noelle’s Gift to Children before my role with the LKDSB, I never truly understood the depth of its impact,” says Lee. “They are truly a lifeline for countless families across Chatham-Kent and Sarnia-Lambton, offering support when it’s needed most. The immediate, compassionate help provided to children and families, free from barriers, is nothing short of extraordinary. I am honoured to step into this role and know that the Chatham-Kent community will be supportive of such a vital cause.”

Joining Lee as co-chairperson is Leah Cabral, Supervisor of Communications and Community Relations for the St. Clair Catholic District School Board and associate professor at Lambton College. Cabral, a strong advocate for students, is committed to continuing Noelle’s mission.

“Noelle’s Gift to Children touches the lives of students in our schools every day, and I’m thrilled to be part of the team helping to extend that impact in Chatham-Kent,” says Cabral. “Every child deserves to feel supported and have what they need to thrive, and Noelle’s Gift makes that possible in such a meaningful way.”

To celebrate the expansion, Noelle’s Gift to Children will host its first-ever Chatham-Kent “Light up the Night for Noelle” Spring race. The event, set for Friday, April 25, at 7:30 p.m., will feature a 5KM run/walk and a 1KM kids’ race at Mud Creek Trail in Chatham, offering an exciting and inclusive event for all ages. All proceeds from the race will stay in Chatham-Kent to support local students through Noelle’s Gift.

Chatham-Kent residents are encouraged to stay tuned for more details and to help spread the word. For upcoming announcements, visit Noelle’s Gift website or follow them on social media.

By: Mike Su, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Food banks across the region are struggling to keep up with demand. The good news is that dedicated volunteers leading these non-profits remain tireless in their efforts, and public support continues to be strong.

The spirit of community and compassion was on full display at Ashley Place in Tilbury as the local hub hosted its Free Friendship Soup event, paired with the kickoff of Valentine’s celebrations. The gathering featured tea, desserts and heartfelt gestures, bringing together residents and volunteers to support those in need.

The 21-year-old, who tragically died in a car accident in 2013, continues to inspire Ashley’s Place, a charity dedicated to helping those in need. More than 10 years after her passing, Ashley Doucet’s legacy lives on.

Founded by Ashley’s mother, Kim Doucet, just three months after her daughter’s death, the Tilbury-based charity has thrived over the past decade. It supports various initiatives, including assembling essential care packages for Chatham-Kent youth aging out of foster care.

Ashley and Christopher Taylor, longtime advocates for the unhoused, dropped off backpacks filled with necessities for individuals experiencing homelessness. The couple also donated foot and hand warmers, providing comfort during the winter months. “We can’t thank them enough for their ongoing support,” says Ashley’s Place founder Kim Doucet.

“Their efforts make a real difference for those born and raised right here in Tilbury who are facing tough times.”

The event was made possible by a team of dedicated young volunteers, including Paxton Harmsworth, Alycia, Kevin Neudorf, Nathaniel, Kit Burk, Jaylynn and Spencer Mark. They decorated the space, welcomed guests and served soup and tea with smiles. “Our volunteers did amazing work today,” the organizer added. “Their energy and kindness truly made the event special.”

A touching moment came when a young girl named Lauren stopped by to donate handmade Valentine’s cards for those who might not otherwise receive one. She personally handed out the cards to guests enjoying soup and tea, spreading joy and reminding everyone of the power of small acts of kindness.

The Free Friendship Soup event, a regular initiative at Ashley Place, continues to serve as a beacon of hope and connection in the community. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, Saturday’s celebration was a reminder that love and generosity can warm even the coldest days.

“Every Saturday, we provide free Friendship Soup and a homemade dessert, delivering them throughout the community—Tilbury, Stony Point, Comber and Jeanette’s Creek,” says Kim Doucet, founder of Ashley’s Place. “We also welcome everyone to join us for a dine-in experience, where they can enjoy the free Friendship Soup.”

By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation hosted its second Cornhole for Hospice fundraiser on Saturday, February 8, raising $51,500 for hospice care in Chatham-Kent.

The event, presented by title sponsor Glenn Seeds Ltd., welcomed players of all abilities to the John D. Bradley Convention Centre for a day of friendly competition and fundraising. After round-robin play, 37 teams of two were split into two brackets based on ability and competed in double-elimination play.

Mike and Susan Cartier of team Last of 19 took home the trophy and a $500 cash prize in the Best of the Best bracket, while Gord and Tracy Adams of team Nan & Popps won a $250 cash prize in the Best of the Rest bracket.

The event’s 50/50 raffle jackpot of $507.50 was won by Teddy Rosser, while Jodi Naftel claimed the Air Mail competition title. Tim Patterson, the top fundraiser, and Cheryl Carroll, the fundraising draw winner, each walked away with a set of cornhole boards for their efforts.

“We are so grateful for all of the teams who came out to support this event, as well as all of the donors and sponsors who made Cornhole for Hospice such a success,” said Ginny Hawken, Special Events Chair for the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation.

“The true winners from this event are the people across Chatham-Kent who will have access to end-of-life care at no cost to themselves or their families.”

Tournament play was organized by the local cornhole league, CK Dirty Birds, run by Darryl Lucio, Brett Castein, and Tyler Lucio. Glenn Seeds Ltd. of Blenheim extended their support as the title sponsor, with additional support from tournament-level sponsors Rondeau Capital Inc., Soiex Farms Inc., Keystone Farmland Management, CF Industries, Farm Lending Canada, Teksavvy, and Fairway Wealth Management.

Registration for the 2026 Cornhole for Hospice tournament is already open. Visit www.cornholeforhospiceck.com for more information, to register, or to view a full list of supporters.

For more information about hospice care in the community, please visit www.chathamkenthospice.com.

By: Muhammad Aamir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The Chatham-Kent Police have arrested over 60 individuals in the past week as part of efforts to tackle domestic offences, outstanding warrants, mischief, impaired driving, and break-ins. Of these, 43 were linked to domestic-related crimes, while others involved theft, assault, and probation violations.

43 ARRESTED FOR DOMESTIC OFFENSES

The police have arrested as many as 43 individuals in a series of arrests during the last week for outstanding warrants, failure to comply with court orders and domestic-related offences.

Law enforcement officials confirmed that 43 arrests were made as part of the ongoing crackdown. The arrests included seven individuals in one operation, four in another, 21 in a separate effort, and 11 more later in the day. Police have not released the names of those taken into custody but confirmed that several arrests involved repeat offenders and individuals with active warrants.

TWO ARRESTED IN MISCHIEF INCIDENTS

Police have arrested two individuals in connection with separate mischief-related incidents reported in the municipality.

A business owner on Wellington Street, Chatham, contacted the police after discovering that someone had tampered with the direction of her CCTV camera. Officers responded to the scene and identified a 42-year-old Chatham man as the suspect. Following the investigation, he was charged with theft under $5,000, possession of stolen property, and two counts of failing to attend court. He was taken into custody and is being held for a bail hearing. In a separate incident, police arrested a 32-year-old Chatham-Kent man for mischief under $5,000 after surveillance footage captured him breaking the window of a parked vehicle. He was subsequently released with conditions and given a court date of March 10, 2025.

POLICE CONDUCT RIDE PROGRAM

The police conducted a Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) Program in Chatham as part of ongoing efforts to combat impaired driving and enhance road safety. During the initiative, 268 vehicles were checked, resulting in two roadside tests and 11 cautions issued. Later that evening, the police responded to a report of a 22-year-old Wallaceburg man attempting to operate a motor vehicle while intoxicated. Officers arrived on the scene and arrested him on charges of operating while impaired by alcohol, resisting a peace officer, and refusing to comply with demand.

WOMAN ARRESTED FOR BREAKING AND ENTERING

A 45-year-old woman from Chatham has been arrested for breaking and entering after she was found inside a vacant building.

The police responded to the scene and took the woman into custody on charges of breaking and entering with intent to commit an indictable offence. She is currently being held for bail as the investigation continues. The police urged residents to report suspicious activity in vacant properties to help prevent criminal offenses.

FOUR HELD IN SEPARATE WARRANT CASES

Police arrested four individuals in connection with outstanding warrants related to theft, probation violations, and other offenses.

Officers responded to a call regarding an unwanted person on Third Street, Chatham. A 49-year-old Chatham-Kent woman was arrested on theft and possession charges under $5,000. She was transported to Chatham-Kent Police Headquarters and later released with conditions and a court date of March 24, 2025.

Later in the afternoon, the police conducted a welfare check on St. Clair Street, Chatham, where they arrested a 52-year-old woman on a catch-and-release warrant for failing to comply with probation. She was released with conditions and is scheduled to appear in court on March 3, 2025. Shortly after, a 30-year-old woman was located on Grand Avenue West, Chatham, and arrested on warrants for theft under $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime, and assault. She was also released with conditions, and her court date was set for March 10, 2025.

Later that evening, a 63-year-old man from Harwich Township was taken into custody on an outstanding DNA warrant. He was processed at police headquarters and released unconditionally.

MULTIPLE ARRESTS ON OUTSTANDING WARRANTS

The police arrested 11 individuals, including three women, over the past week on outstanding warrants for charges such as assault, theft, obstruction of justice, and failure to attend court.

Among the arrests, a 44-year-old Chatham man was charged with assault causing bodily harm, forcible confinement, and uttering threats and is being held for bail. A 46-year-old Chatham man and a 34-year-old Leamington man are also in custody for separate offences. Others arrested include a 33-year-old Wallaceburg woman and a 33-year-old Harrow woman, both taken into custody during traffic stops for failing to attend court. Several others were arrested for mischief, theft, and violating probation.

By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Chatham-Kent-Leamington MP Dave Epp is reaching out to local businesses, seeking their input on economic challenges and ideas for a more sustainable future. In response to growing economic uncertainty, Epp has launched a survey to better understand the concerns of businesses in his riding.

“The United States has introduced great economic uncertainty to our country, and we must not only determine how to best respond in the coming weeks, but also how we can best chart a more sustainable path going forward,” Epp said in his announcement.

The survey focuses on five key questions, addressing potential impacts of tariffs, government response strategies, and ways to promote local economic resilience. Among the topics explored are:

The potential effect of a 25% tariff on local businesses.

Strategies for Canadian government response.

Ways to encourage “Canada First” spending habits.

Promoting awareness of local products and services.

A chance for participants to send a message to Donald Trump.

Discussions have already begun on potential solutions, ranging from breaking down interprovincial trade barriers to reducing dependence on the U.S. economy. The results of the survey will be shared locally and with federal officials.

Epp is encouraging business owners to take part in shaping economic policies that will strengthen both the local and national economy.

For more information or to participate in the survey, businesses can reach out to MP Dave Epp’s office.

By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter

A 25-year-old Chatham man has been charged with dangerous driving causing death following a fatal two-vehicle collision on Queen’s Line last month, police said.

The Chatham-Kent Police Service responded to the scene on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, at approximately 5:06 p.m., where emergency crews worked to manage the aftermath of the crash. The collision occurred between Wheeler Line and Davidson Road.

One of the vehicles was reportedly travelling at a high speed when it struck another vehicle, resulting in fatal injuries to the driver of one vehicle. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the other vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital. Both drivers were the sole occupants of their vehicles.

Due to the severity of the incident, the Chatham-Kent Police Service’s Traffic Management Unit launched an extensive investigation. As a result, the 25-year-old was arrested and charged under the Criminal Code with dangerous driving causing death.

Police said speed and driver behaviour are being considered as factors in the crash. The accused has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court on March 31, 2025.

The Chatham-Kent Police Service expressed condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. “We urge everyone to always drive with caution and adhere to traffic laws to ensure the safety of all road users,” a police spokesperson said.

Investigators are asking anyone with information about the collision, including witnesses or individuals with dashcam footage, to come forward. Tips can be provided by calling police at 519-436-6600 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

This incident highlights the importance of safe driving practices, particularly on rural roads where visibility and conditions can pose additional risks.

For updates, residents can contact the Chatham-Kent Police Service or visit their website.

By: Muhammad Aamir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The Chatham-Kent police arrested 66 individuals in a targeted enforcement operation last week. The arrests involved outstanding warrants, failure to comply with court orders, assault, theft, drug possession, and break-and-enter offences. Several suspects were held for bail, while others were released with future court dates.

18 ARRESTED IN WARRANT CASES

The police and other law enforcement agencies arrested 18 people on Jan. 29 and 30 in a coordinated effort to apprehend individuals with outstanding warrants. The arrests involved various offences, including failure to attend court, breaching probation, and theft.

A 32-year-old Chatham man was arrested on a DNA warrant following a person stop. He was processed at Police Headquarters and later released with conditions. In a separate case, a 38-year-old Chatham woman was arrested after a suspicious person complaint revealed she had outstanding warrants for failing to attend court and breaching probation. She was processed and released with conditions.

Police also arrested a 67-year-old Halifax man on Grand Avenue West in Chatham for outstanding endorsed warrants. He was released with conditions and a court date of February 14. A 36-year-old Chatham woman was also arrested on an endorsed warrant for failing to attend court and was released with conditions.

A 55-year-old Chatham man was taken into custody for two counts of failing to comply with a release order and breaching probation. He was held for a bail hearing. A 35-year-old London woman, arrested by St. Thomas police for failing to attend court, was transferred to police custody and held for bail.

The London Police Service arrested a 53-year-old London man on behalf of Chatham-Kent police for a catch-and-release warrant. He was given a court date of March 10. In another case, a 49-year-old Windsor man with an outstanding arrest warrant was brought to the Chatham-Kent courthouse from the South West Detention Centre and taken into custody.

A 30-year-old Wallaceburg woman was arrested for failing to attend court and breaching probation. She was held for bail. Meanwhile, a 39-year-old Windsor man was taken into custody by Windsor police before being arrested by Chatham-Kent police officers. He was released with a court date of March 3.

A 31-year-old Chatham man was arrested for theft and possession from a clothing store on St. Clair Street. He was given a court date of March 10. Police also arrested a 49-year-old Wallaceburg man on King Street for outstanding endorsed warrants. He was released with conditions and a court date of February 10.

A 26-year-old Edmonton woman was arrested for failing to comply with an arrest warrant and is being held for bail. A 42-year-old Toronto man, who was wanted on a warrant for failure to comply, was also arrested. He was found in breach of curfew and remains in custody pending a bail hearing.

Chatham-Kent police also arrested a 42-year-old Chatham man on an Intermittent Partner Violence (IPV) warrant. He was transported to police headquarters and is currently being held for bail. A 30-year-old Chatham man was arrested for failing to attend court and mischief. He was released with conditions and a court date of February 3.

POLICE ARREST 66 IN COMPLIANCE CRACKDOWN

The police arrested 66 individuals in a series of enforcement operations targeting outstanding warrants, failure to comply with court orders and domestic-related offences. The arrests took place over multiple days as officers worked to apprehend those wanted by law enforcement.

Among those arrested were individuals facing charges related to breaching probation, missing court dates and violating release conditions. Police said the operation aimed to hold offenders accountable and ensure compliance with legal orders.

TWO ARRESTED IN SEPARATE ASSAULT INCIDENTS

Police have arrested two individuals in separate assault incidents in Chatham and Wallaceburg.

On Jan. 30, Chatham-Kent police responded to a call about a 54-year-old Chatham man who was refusing to leave a business on Third Street in Chatham. During the incident, police say the man assaulted another person, though no injuries were reported. He was arrested at the scene and held for a bail hearing.

A day earlier, officers arrested a 40-year-old Wallaceburg woman following an altercation that turned physical. Police say the woman was involved in an argument that escalated when she used an object to strike the victim, causing minor injuries. She was taken into custody and later released with a court date set for March 3, 2025.

WALLACEBURG MAN CHARGED

A Wallaceburg man has been charged after police say he broke into a business on St. Clair Street in Chatham.

The police responded to a call on Jan. 30, 2025, from a business owner reporting a break-in. Officers arrived and found a 41-year-old Wallaceburg resident inside the premises. He was arrested and charged with breaking and entering with intent and possession of break-in tools. The accused was released from custody with a court date set for March 3, 2025.

MAN CHARGED AS ATV STOP LEADS TO DRUG SEIZURE

A Chatham man is facing charges after police say he failed to stop while driving an ATV without lights and was later found in possession of drugs.

The police located the 27-year-old man and attempted a traffic stop, but he failed to comply. Officers arrested him and, during the stop, discovered a quantity of drugs. He was charged with failure to stop and drug possession. The accused was released with a court date set for March 6, 2025.

MAN CHARGED AFTER ASSAULT ON POLICE OFFICER

A Brampton man has been charged after police say he assaulted an officer while being removed from a Chatham property.

On Jan. 29, 2025, the police responded to a report of an unwanted person on Grand Avenue West. Officers located a 26-year-old Brampton resident who became aggressive and assaulted one of the officers. Police say the officer was not injured.

The man was arrested and taken to Police Headquarters, where he was charged with assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest. He was held for a bail hearing.

By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Reach Out Chatham-Kent (R.O.C.K.) has unveiled its homelessness response toolkits, a new resource designed to help businesses, business improvement areas, and community members in Chatham-Kent better understand and respond to local homelessness issues. The toolkits will be available starting Jan. 31, 2025.

Adapted from the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association’s homelessness response toolkit, R.O.C.K.’s version extends its reach beyond BIAs to serve business owners and residents across the region. The goal is to provide practical tools to reduce stigma, foster compassion, and support informed interactions with individuals experiencing homelessness.

The initiative also includes a quick reference postcard, which offers at-a-glance information on key contacts for outreach services, sharps clean-up, shelter access, and other essential resources. The postcard ensures businesses and community members can quickly connect with support when needed.

“Our goal is to bridge the gap between the community and homelessness response efforts,” said Haleigh Hill, executive lead at R.O.C.K. “These resources provide practical guidance while promoting compassion and understanding.”

Community members and businesses can obtain the toolkits by contacting R.O.C.K. at 226-627-6163 or ck@reachoutck.com. Digital copies are also available at reachoutck.com/resources.

R.O.C.K. continues to play a key role in addressing homelessness, insecure housing, and substance use in the Chatham-Kent area. The organization serves about 300 people in Chatham and 120 in Wallaceburg each week. Its drop-in centres in both communities see 20 to 40 people daily, offering essential services and support.

The Peer-2-Peer (P2P) program, a cornerstone of R.O.C.K.’s efforts, operates weekly out of the Chatham drop-in centre. The program provides harm reduction supplies, information, and peer-driven outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness or substance use. As one of Chatham-Kent’s largest naloxone distributors, the program has also facilitated harm reduction education and helped more than 100 people secure replacement identification and health cards.

R.O.C.K. invites the community to engage with these new resources and join efforts to address homelessness in Chatham-Kent with empathy and action.