Author: Mohsin Abbas

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

Chatham-Kent Marks International Overdose Awareness Day with Urgent Call for Courage and Action

On a somber afternoon, residents, health professionals, and community advocates gathered across Chatham-Kent to mark International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), honouring lives lost to the drug toxicity crisis and rallying for change. The event, held at multiple sites including R.O.C.K. Missions in Chatham and Wallaceburg, was a poignant reminder of the local toll and the courage required to confront it.

In 2024, Chatham-Kent recorded 40 suspected drug-related deaths, a sharp rise from 27 in 2023, with 13 confirmed or probable opioid poisoning deaths between January and June alone. Emergency services responded to 166 suspected opioid poisoning calls in 2024, more than double the previous year’s total of 75. These figures place Chatham-Kent well above the provincial average, underscoring the urgency of the crisis.

The unregulated drug supply—often laced with potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl and sedatives such as benzodiazepines—has made it increasingly difficult for individuals to protect themselves. “It’s really hard for people to prepare and be safe in the unregulated supply,” said Jordynne Lindsay, Community Drug Strategy Coordinator. “The contaminants are causing the poisoning deaths.”

The event emphasized the importance of substance use health care, which prioritizes meeting individuals where they are, without judgment. Services such as sterile use supplies, supervised consumption supports, and naloxone distribution were highlighted as essential tools that save lives, reduce disease transmission, and connect people to care.

Speakers from the CK Community Drug Strategy—a Collective Impact initiative led by the Chatham-Kent Ontario Health Team—outlined ongoing efforts to expand harm reduction and treatment services, strengthen education, promote inclusion, and combat stigma. Peer support workers from R.O.C.K. Missions shared personal stories of recovery and resilience, reinforcing the message that every life matters.

Attendees were encouraged to carry naloxone kits, available for free at CK Public Health, Reach Out Chatham-Kent, and participating pharmacies. Resources such as Connex Ontario and the Hope for Wellness Helpline were promoted to ensure residents know where to turn for help.

As the community lit candles and wore purple to honour those lost, the message was clear: courage is not just in recovery—it’s in every act of compassion, advocacy, and understanding. “We love you; we care about you. You matter and we want you to be around tomorrow,” Lindsay said.

Together, Chatham-Kent is choosing courage over silence, and community over crisis.

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

After years of delays, stalled progress, and public frustration, demolition work is officially resuming this week on a cluster of structurally compromised buildings along Queen Street North in downtown Tilbury. Beginning Tuesday, September 2, crews will begin demolishing 55 Queen Street North, with work expected to be completed within two weeks. The long-stalled demolition of 47 and 49 Queen Street North is also anticipated to resume in conjunction with this effort.

The renewed activity marks a significant step forward in addressing safety concerns that have plagued the site since 2022, when complaints first surfaced about a collapsing structure. A structural engineer hired by the Municipality of Chatham-Kent later confirmed a partially collapsed roof and other major failures at 47 and 49 Queen Street North, deeming the buildings unsafe and unfit for occupancy. An order to remedy the conditions was issued, but when the property owner failed to complete the required repairs, demolition was ordered.

However, during the initial demolition process, engineers identified structural defects in the neighbouring buildings at 45 and 55 Queen Street North, prompting a halt in work and triggering additional safety reviews. Stabilization efforts were required before demolition could continue, and the municipality issued further orders to prohibit occupancy and ensure public safety.

Now, with demolition contractors on site and plans in place, the municipality is moving forward. Minor traffic disruptions are expected during the demolition period, but Queen Street North and Superior Street will remain open. Residents are urged to use caution in the area and avoid the demolition site.

The owners of 45 Queen Street North have been issued a building permit for repairs to the wall and structural elements of that property, with work anticipated to begin later this fall. These repairs are part of a broader effort to stabilize the surrounding area and address concerns raised during earlier phases of demolition.

Municipal officials have been working closely with property owners and their insurers to ensure that engineering recommendations are followed and that remediation efforts proceed safely. In an earlier statement, Paul Lacina, director of building development services and chief building official for Chatham-Kent, emphasized that safety remains the top priority.

“We appreciate the community’s cooperation and want to assure everyone that safety remains the top priority,” Lacina said.

Ward 1 Councillor Melissa Harrigan acknowledged the frustration felt by residents and business owners over the prolonged timeline but expressed optimism about the renewed progress.

“The length of time it has taken to resolve the issues at 47–49 Queen Street has been frustrating for all involved,” Harrigan said. “This update clarifies the current state and the complexities involved. I am actively working with staff to ask how Chatham-Kent can expedite a solution for our downtown.”

The site has been a focal point of public concern and social media discussion, with local business owners and residents calling for action. Fencing remains in place around the affected properties, and the sidewalk along Queen Street is open and safe for public use.

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent continues to monitor site conditions and encourages residents to stay informed by visiting its website for updates. For media inquiries, contact Eric Labadie, Manager of Corporate Communications, at EricL@chatham-kent.ca.

As demolition resumes, officials hope the long-awaited progress will help restore confidence in the downtown core and pave the way for future revitalization.

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

Residents in Wheatley and Tilbury may notice a temporary change in the appearance of their tap water starting this week, as the Chatham-Kent Public Utilities Commission (PUC) reports a naturally occurring discolouration affecting the local water distribution system. Officials stress that while the water may appear slightly tinted, it remains safe to drink and poses no health risks.

The discolouration, which began Friday night, is attributed to seasonal changes in Lake Erie’s raw water supply. Specifically, fluctuations in water temperature and lake turnover—a natural process where deeper, cooler water mixes with warmer surface water—have introduced colour variations into the source water. The Wheatley and Tilbury systems draw their supply from the Water Treatment Plant in Wheatley, making them susceptible to these temporary changes.

According to the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, the discolouration is expected to be short-lived and will clear naturally as the system replenishes with fresh water. Once Lake Erie stabilizes and returns to normal conditions, the water system will undergo a flushing process to help expedite the clearing of any residual colour.

“The safety of the water is not affected by this colour issue,” the PUC confirmed in a statement. “At this time, there have been no water testing results that indicate any health risk from drinking the water.”

The Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit has been kept informed of the situation and is working closely with the PUC to monitor developments. Officials will continue to consult until the issue is fully resolved, ensuring that public health remains a top priority.

While the appearance of discoloured water may be concerning to some residents, authorities emphasize that this is a common and naturally occurring phenomenon during seasonal transitions in large bodies of water like Lake Erie. The municipality encourages residents to remain calm and reassured that the water quality is being closely monitored.

As the situation evolves, updates will be provided through official municipal channels to keep the community informed. In the meantime, residents are advised that their water remains safe for consumption and everyday use.

 

By: John Humphrey, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The Tilbury Bluebirds have moved to a new league.

The team opened their 2025-2026 Premier Hockey League season on September 27 by hosting the Alvinston Killer Bees at the Tilbury Memorial Centre. The contest was the first of a 40-game (divided equally between home and road games) regular season that extends until February before the play-offs start.

The move to the Premier League came after the Bluebirds played their first three seasons of existence in the Western Ontario Super Hockey League (WOSHL) In their third and final season the Bluebirds finished in sixth place in the 12-team WOSHL regular season standings before bowing out in a semifinal to the eventual champion Stratford Fighting Irish.

According to Bluebirds team majority owner Joe Bryne, the change in league was made after much thought and deliberation as his team and five others were becoming increasingly dissatisfied with the manner that the WOSHL was being run both on and off the ice.

“Some owners were not happy with what was going on in the old league,” claimed Bryne, who also serves as the Bluebirds team president and general manager of the team. “We all had our own reasons for wanting out and we finally decided to make the move collectively.”

The Northern Premier Hockey League was originally known as the Eastern Ontario Hockey League when it came into existence in 2019.

The seven former WOSHL teams who have joined the Northern Premier Hockey League (NPHL) include Alvinston, Stratford, Strathroy and Tilbury who have formed the new Metropolitan Division that will operate under the NPHL ‘s umbrella along with teams from Six Nations (expansion team), Woodstock and Orangeville.

The WOSHL, coincidentally, announced plans to suspend its operation following the mass exodus of teams.

And while the Bluebird have moved into a new season, there will be many players returning this fall from last season’s club. In fact, between 26 and 28 players who saw playing time with the club last season were already pencilled into the Bluebirds’ 2025-2026 season roster.

“We didn’t have a training camp heading into this season as there were so many players who had played so well for us last season and were wanting to come back again this time around,” said Bryne. “Of course, having so many players available to us means that a few guys will have to sit out, unless there are injuries or suspensions.

“We are also going to invite another half dozen players to come out and skate with us at practice,” Bryne continued. “This will serve as their try-outs of sorts and it will also help keep the other players primed and focused.”

Up front, expectations are that the Bluebirds will be lead offensively by the talented trio of Dylan Denomme, Nick Pavia and Jake Durham while a talented defence corps will be lead by the likes of Chays Ruddy, Mike MacIntyre and Tucker Firth, all of whom have pro hockey experience. A talented addition to the Tilbury blueline this season is Levi Tetrault. A native of Pain Court, Tetrualt played three seasons in the Ontario Hockey League from 2014-2017 with the Guelph Storm before splitting the last three seasons in with the Brantford 99ers and the Leamington Flyers.

In net the Bluebirds staring netminder will be Ryan Polidori and although Bryne had not confirmed who the team’s backup puckstopper will be by Tilbury Times press time, he was confident in finding a talented goaltender to play behind the starter Polidori.

Bryne was also hoping to be able to spend more time this season expanding his team’s community involvement in Tilbury.

Among the plans being eyed were potential new partnerships with both local businesses and charities and the Bluebirds’ participation in community fundraisers and school visits as well.

“We are going to make game nights bigger and more inclusive for our fans and sponsors,” Bryne claimed. “Tilbury is the small town with a big heart.

“And we are going to show that the Tilbury Bluebirds have a big heart too.”

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

Community heroes live among us. They go about their day largely unnoticed, yet brighten lives through acts of kindness and compassion. Their contributions make the community stronger.

Recognizing those who embody the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self” was a natural fit for the Rotary Club of Tilbury, which encourages individuals to make the world a better place through selfless service. The club’s Community Heroes initiative is a way of saying: We see you.

The recognition doesn’t come with a monetary prize or a trophy. It’s a simple gesture from those who appreciate the dedication of others and want to say thank you.

Rotary Community Heroes began as a way to honour individuals who have given generously of themselves. Each year, Rotarians contribute to the Rotary International Foundation to support global humanitarian projects. When a member’s giving reaches a certain level, they receive one of Rotary’s highest honours — the Paul Harris Award.

Over time, the Rotary Club of Tilbury earned several of these awards through the “Every Rotarian Every Year” program. The club chose to share these honours with community members who also give selflessly to improve the lives of others.

Initially, recipients were selected by the club — often individuals who hosted Youth Exchange students or supported the Interact program, Rotary’s initiative for youth. This year, the club invited the community to nominate individuals who exemplify Rotary’s values, as seen through the eyes of their peers.

Recipients of this year’s awards received a Paul Harris pin and certificate, along with notification that $1,000 has been donated in their name to support global efforts through Rotary International.

One of this year’s honourees is Annette Curtis Thibert, recognized for her service to her church through her dedication to the choir and her efforts in beautifying the grounds by planting and caring for planters each year. Her work with the Tilbury Horticultural Society, where she now serves as president, was also cited. One of her first acts in that role was to nominate several longtime members for provincial recognition for their years of service in beautifying the town. In addition, Thibert devoted herself to the care of a sick friend over many months.

The second recipient is Elizabeth Imeson Innes, honoured for her decades of volunteer service to several local organizations. Innes has been a familiar face at Tilbury Funfests, the Comber Fair gates and youth dances hosted by the Tilbury Area Action Team and sponsored by Tilbury Rotary. If help was needed, she was there — often volunteering for long hours and multiple shifts. This year, she continued to fundraise and support the Terry Fox Run, despite facing personal and family challenges related to the disease.

The Rotary Club of Tilbury encourages residents to congratulate this year’s recipients and to submit nominations for the 2024 Rotary Community Heroes Awards. The club remains committed to recognizing those who make a difference — one act of kindness at a time.

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

Community heroes live among us. They go about their day largely unnoticed, yet brighten lives through acts of kindness and compassion. Their contributions make the community stronger.

Recognizing those who embody the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self” was a natural fit for the Rotary Club of Tilbury, which encourages individuals to make the world a better place through selfless service. The club’s Community Heroes initiative is a way of saying: We see you.

The recognition doesn’t come with a monetary prize or a trophy. It’s a simple gesture from those who appreciate the dedication of others and want to say thank you.

Rotary Community Heroes began as a way to honour individuals who have given generously of themselves. Each year, Rotarians contribute to the Rotary International Foundation to support global humanitarian projects. When a member’s giving reaches a certain level, they receive one of Rotary’s highest honours — the Paul Harris Award.

Over time, the Rotary Club of Tilbury earned several of these awards through the “Every Rotarian Every Year” program. The club chose to share these honours with community members who also give selflessly to improve the lives of others.

Initially, recipients were selected by the club — often individuals who hosted Youth Exchange students or supported the Interact program, Rotary’s initiative for youth. This year, the club invited the community to nominate individuals who exemplify Rotary’s values, as seen through the eyes of their peers.

Recipients of this year’s awards received a Paul Harris pin and certificate, along with notification that $1,000 has been donated in their name to support global efforts through Rotary International.

One of this year’s honourees is Annette Curtis Thibert, recognized for her service to her church through her dedication to the choir and her efforts in beautifying the grounds by planting and caring for planters each year. Her work with the Tilbury Horticultural Society, where she now serves as president, was also cited. One of her first acts in that role was to nominate several longtime members for provincial recognition for their years of service in beautifying the town. In addition, Thibert devoted herself to the care of a sick friend over many months.

The second recipient is Elizabeth Imeson Innes, honoured for her decades of volunteer service to several local organizations. Innes has been a familiar face at Tilbury Funfests, the Comber Fair gates and youth dances hosted by the Tilbury Area Action Team and sponsored by Tilbury Rotary. If help was needed, she was there — often volunteering for long hours and multiple shifts. This year, she continued to fundraise and support the Terry Fox Run, despite facing personal and family challenges related to the disease.

The Rotary Club of Tilbury encourages residents to congratulate this year’s recipients and to submit nominations for the 2024 Rotary Community Heroes Awards. The club remains committed to recognizing those who make a difference — one act of kindness at a time.

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

The 1st Comber Scouting organization proudly took part in the 166th Comber Fair on the weekend of Aug. 9 and 10, hosting an interactive booth throughout the event to connect with families and showcase the values of Scouting.

Raymond Blain and his wife, Ariel Leach, longtime leaders with the 1st Comber Scouts, say the group is gearing up to celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2026 — a milestone that reflects decades of service, mentorship and outdoor adventure in the community.

“This troop has been a pillar in Comber for generations,” said Blain. “We’re proud of the legacy and excited to keep building it with new families and leaders.”

The co-ed troop, which currently includes approximately 30 youth members, meets every Thursday evening at the Comber Community Hall from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Activities range from skill-building and nature exploration to community service and fundraising.

Throughout the year, the Scouts support a number of local initiatives, including the Two Creeks Conservation Area fundraiser, seasonal can and bottle drives, popcorn sales, and the upcoming Apple Day campaign in September — a cherished tradition that helps raise funds while engaging with the broader community.

At the Comber Fair, the troop’s booth featured Scouting displays, interactive games and information for prospective members. Leaders say the event was a great opportunity to reconnect with alumni, recruit new youth and encourage adults to consider volunteering.

“We’re always looking for new members — especially leaders,” said Leach. “It’s incredibly rewarding to help guide young people and watch them grow in confidence and character.”

The 1st Comber Scouts are part of Scouts Canada, a national organization that promotes leadership, outdoor education and community engagement. Local troops like Comber’s play a vital role in fostering resilience, teamwork and environmental stewardship among youth.

As the group looks ahead to its 80th year, leaders say they hope to expand programming, strengthen partnerships and continue offering meaningful experiences for young people in the region.

For more information or to get involved, visit scouts.ca or attend a Thursday meeting at the Comber Community Hall.

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

Police in Chatham-Kent responded to more than 600 calls for service over a 24-hour period, including multiple arrests stemming from a violent party, drug-related offences and impaired driving incidents.

Officers were dispatched to a residence on Dillon Road in Raleigh Township early Saturday morning following reports of armed individuals at a large youth gathering. Witnesses told police that uninvited suspects wearing ski masks had drawn knives and dropped a handgun during the disturbance. The suspects fled in a silver vehicle before officers arrived.

While interviewing witnesses, police observed the suspect vehicle return to the area and conducted a high-risk traffic stop. Two 17-year-old Chatham males were arrested after officers discovered a bag containing individually packaged controlled substances, a scale and packaging materials. Both were charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking and released with a court date set for Oct. 15.

Shortly after, police were called to the local hospital where a male victim reported being assaulted at the same party. The 16-year-old accused from Blenheim allegedly struck the victim in the head and face, causing dental injuries. He was arrested for assault causing bodily harm and released with conditions. His court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 24.

Over the weekend, four impaired driving arrests were made across the municipality:

· A 36-year-old Wallaceburg man was found unconscious at a stop sign on Fairview Line with drug paraphernalia in his lap.

· A 19-year-old Harwich Township man was discovered asleep at the wheel on Charing Cross Road.

· A 40-year-old Chatham man fled on foot during a traffic stop on Forest Street but was apprehended and charged with impaired driving and obstruction.

· A 21-year-old Blenheim man was stopped on Queen Street and charged with impaired driving and violating novice driver alcohol restrictions.

All four were released on Form 10s with court dates set for early September.

Additional arrests included a 30-year-old Windsor man charged with assault following a road rage incident on St. Clair Road, and a 43-year-old Wallaceburg woman charged with breach of conditions and assault. Police also charged a Chatham man and a Whitby woman for violating bail conditions related to previous intimate partner violence.

The Chatham-Kent Police Service continues to investigate several of these incidents and encourages anyone with information to contact them at 519-352-1234.

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

The Windsor-Essex region of Ontario is home to a vibrant and impactful 4-H Club that has significantly influenced the lives of local youth for many years. 4-H, which stands for Head, Heart, Hands, and Health, is a global organization dedicated to developing leadership skills, practical abilities, and a sense of community among young people. The Windsor-Essex 4-H Club embodies these ideals by offering a variety of programs and activities that promote agricultural education, community service, and personal development.

“This weekend we are here to celebrate the achievements of our 4-H members and their livestock animals that they have worked so hard to raise this year,” said Karen Garant, the Comber Beef and Poultry Livestock Club Leader, board member and secretary.

The Club’s annual participation at the recent Comber Fair is a highly anticipated event that many fairgoers look forward to every year. Members showcase their projects at exhibitions and fairs, providing a platform for them to present their hard work to the public.

According to Garant, the Windsor-Essex 4-H Club has its roots in this tradition, emphasizing hands-on learning in a supportive environment. Participants, typically aged 10 to 21, engage in projects and clubs that range from livestock and gardening to technology, barn club, Christmas and canning crafts.

“Learn by doing is our motto,” said Garant. “The club provides children and young adults with opportunities that include a lot of hands-on activities.”

One of the key strengths of the Windsor-Essex 4-H Club is the diversity of its programming. Members can choose from various projects that align with their interests and goals including; Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Environmental Stewardship, Leadership and Life Skills.

“Not all kids are exposed to this type of environment. These programs not only educate youth but also empower them to take on leadership roles within their communities,” she added.

Garant says that they have members who are off to the veterinarian school and members who pursue post-secondary education as mechanical engineers, applying the learned lessons to their careers.

“We have many members who have come back to pay it forward later in life and become 4-H leaders,” added Garant. “The club emphasizes service projects that benefit the local area, teaching members the importance of giving back.”

Kayden Prange, 14, has been a member of the club going on four years.

“It’s a lot of fun being around a dairy cow, and probably one of the best experiences I’ve ever had,” he said. “I grew up on a farm of about 10 acres and raised horses, sheep and chickens.”

He says it helps teach him about responsibility and discipline. The Essex County student is looking to pursue a career in the trades and feels this experience will assist him throughout his life.

And it’s not just for ‘farm kids’ says Garant.

“We have kids participating from the city and county, we have members who allow kids to use their farms to experience this way of life.”

Interested in learning more? Visit their Facebook page at Essex County 4H Association.

By: Georgia LeBlanc, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

On Aug. 23, Tilbury’s annual Art in the Parking Lot took place in the Tilbury Arena’s parking lot.

Nicolle Hilbert was one of the four main event organizers. She said the event was originally held at Memorial Park before a large flood. It has since been relocated to the Tilbury Arena’s parking lot for the past three years. No matter where it was held however, Hilbert said it usually takes a valiant effort to set up the event.

“There’s a lot of background organization that people may not see,” said Hilbert. “Without sponsors, it would be hard to put this on.”

With all this hard work taken into consideration, event organizer Mark Authier said their efforts annually pay off for the community.

“Tilbury doesn’t have a lot of events anymore, we used to have a fair and everything,” said Authier. “We don’t have that anymore, so we wanted to keep this local event going.”

Hilbert said Art in the Parking Lot is a great way for families to wrap up their summer.

“I think it’s a great event for everybody to come out and spend the day with their family,” said Hilbert. “It’s a beautiful day, so it’s a good time to spend outside to finish off their summer.”

Authier also said visitors weren’t the only ones benefiting from the event.

“I’m assuming most our vendors are returning from prior years, so it must be paying off for them as well.”

One of said vendors is Stack 3D Designs, run by Zak Kolasa. Kolasa said it was his first time as a vendor at Art in the Parking Lot.

“We make articulated figures, home decor, accessories, keychains, all different kinds of things,” said Kolasa.

Kolasa also said the event was a great strategy to find out what the demand is for his products.

“Art in the Parking Lot gives us a great opportunity to display our products,” said Kolasa. “It gives us a chance to interact with customers and allows us to get a better idea of what to make based on popular requests.”

Also attending the event was Peter Gilbert of Red Raven Flutes. Gilbert hand makes wooden flutes to sell to the public. At the event, he could be seen playing melodies on his creations to entertain the public.

Gilbert has been displaying and testing his flutes at Art in the Parking Lot for three years now.

“I like doing this festival because it’s close to home and supporting the town of Tilbury,” said Gilbert.

Despite several for sale, Gilbert said he only kept four of his creations permanently.

“This is Jenny,” said Gilbert while holding up a double-wooden flute with “JENNY” carved into it. “She’s my personal flute.”

Gilbert said from his personal experiences, a flute can connect with its player on a deep level.

“This is what I do all my shows with. I’ve played weddings, funerals, events in the city…,” said Gilbert. “When you’ve been playing a flute for a while, you listen to its voice. Once you’ve heard its voice and you’ve bonded with that, you have to give it a name.”

The serial number on Jenny read “867-5309,” making it clear his creation was named after the popular song by Tommy Tutone.

Aside from hand-crafted instruments and 3D printed treasures, over ninety vendors and even more visitors attended Art in the Parking Lot.

“I would say we usually have about two thousand people out,” said Authier. “A lot of vendors are from the community, but some are also from out of town.”

The festival also included live music, food trucks, Zoo2you and even a cameo from Bluey and friends.

“It’s just a fun day for everybody to come out and have a good time,” said Hilbert.