The Outdoor Christmas Market brought festive cheer with plenty of smiles, community connections, and even stories from those who once delivered the Tilbury Times decades ago. More photos are available now on our website ckreporter.com/. Send us your news tips, story ideas, and photos at contact@tilburytimes.ca Subscribe to our free newsletter online for updates at ckreporter.com/
By: Pam Wright, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Chatham Voice
For the second year in a row, lights will twinkle for charity at Dresden’s Glenlochie Lodge.
And for those who want to get into the holiday spirit, guided tours will be held at the stately Victorian home on Nov. 22 and 23.
The tour will showcase all things Christmas, including at least 25 decorated trees.
“We basically have one for every window,” said Christy Cummings, who owns the home with husband John.
The three-storey brick home was built in 1883 by Alexander “Sandy” McVean. The Cummings purchased the structure in 2019 and poured their energy into restoring the home.
John said they had to cut down 22 trees, as you could barely see the house through the brush; removed countless layers of wallpaper, went through 75 gallons of paint, restored the original pine floors and installed new plumbing and electrical throughout.
According to John, much of the house remains intact.
“This is all original,” he added, pointing to the intricately carved wood trim in the sitting room. “We painted, fixed and just about replaced everything.”
The pair are happy they chose to call Dresden home.
“When we moved to town, we had so many people help us,” Christy explained, adding they’ve made many friends along the way and wanted to give back.
“We got the volunteer bug all of a sudden,” she added, noting 50 per cent of the money raised will go towards the Dresden Shines Christmas Town fund to help buy lights and decorations. The Dresden Historical Society will benefit from the other half of funds raised.
Time slots for tours on Nov. 22 are 2 p.m.; 3:30 p.m.; 5:30 p.m.; 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. On Nov. 23, tours will be conducted at 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased online at glenlochielodge@gmail.com or by calling 519-384-0874.
The home is located at 384 St. George St. Dresden.
By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
On November 11, communities across the Municipality of Chatham-Kent will gather to honour Canada’s veterans with Remembrance Day parades and services. Residents are invited to attend ceremonies in their local areas, with temporary road closures in effect to accommodate the processions and commemorative events.
The parades will feature Royal Canadian Legion branches, local schools, emergency services, and community members paying tribute to those who served in times of war, conflict, and peacekeeping.
Blenheim will host its parade from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., beginning at Royal Canadian Legion Branch #185 (34 Catherine Street). The procession will travel north on Catherine Street, east on Talbot Street West, and north on George Street to St. Mary’s Hall (94 George Street) for the service. Afterward, the parade will return via George Street, Talbot Street West, and Catherine Street.
Bothwell will hold its parade from 10:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., starting at Zone Township Central School (730 Main Street North) and proceeding to the Cenotaph (334 Main Street North). Following the service, the parade will continue to Royal Canadian Legion Branch #252 (162 George Street East). Main Street North between Chestnut Street and Elm Street will be closed during the ceremony.
Chatham will observe Remembrance Day from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., beginning at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 642 (39 William Street North). The parade will proceed to the Cenotaph on Sixth Street for the service, then return to the Legion. King Street West between Fifth Street and William Street, and Sixth Street between King Street West and Simcoe Lane will be closed during the event.
Dresden will host its parade from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., starting at CK Fire Station 6 (185 Lindsley Street) and proceeding to the Cenotaph on Queen Street. After the service, the parade will return to the fire station. Queen Street West between Centre Street and St. George Street South will be closed during the ceremony.
Erieau will hold its parade from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., beginning at 875 Mariners Road and proceeding to the Veterans Memorial Garden. After the wreath laying, the procession will return to the starting point via Ross Lane and the CK Fire service road.
Merlin will observe Remembrance Day from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., starting at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 465 (2 Stanley Street) and proceeding to the Cenotaph at Kinsmen Park (10 Erie Street North). The parade will then continue to the Merlin Community Hall (150 Aberdeen Street) for a service before returning to the Legion.
Ridgetown will host its parade from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., beginning at Royal Canadian Legion Branch #243 (73 Main Street East) and proceeding to the Cenotaph at 61 Main Street East. Main Street East between Church Street and Broadway Avenue will be closed during the service.
Tilbury will hold its parade from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., starting at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 206 (4 Stewart Avenue) and proceeding to the Cenotaph at Canal Street East. The procession will return to the Legion following the service. Queen Street South between Canal Street and Crawford Avenue will be closed during the ceremony.
Wheatley will observe Remembrance Day from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., beginning at the Wheatley United Church parking lot (59 Talbot Road West) and proceeding to the Cenotaph at 35 Talbot Road West. The parade will return to the church parking lot following the service.
Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and respect temporary road closures during the ceremonies. For regular updates on road closures and traffic advisories, visit the Chatham-Kent Weekly Traffic Report.
Jennifer White’s life took a dramatic turn in January 2024. A retired registered nurse, she faced a serious health crisis involving multiple brain tumours with one large one that required surgery. Now, about 18 months post-surgery, White reflects on how that experience reshaped her identity — and led her to an unexpected new passion: writing children’s books.
“I’m not the same person I was before,” she said. “After the surgery, my personality changed. I became interested in things I never cared about before — like writing. I started taking writing courses and found myself drawn to storytelling in a way that felt completely new.”
White’s transformation wasn’t just emotional — it was creative. Her children’s stories center around two charming characters: Molson, her white Maltese dog, and Jenny, a curious lit-tle girl. “Molson is my real dog,” she said with a smile. “He’s a big part of my life, and I thought it would be fun to make him a main character. Jenny is based on me as a child.”
Their adventures are more than playful tales — they’re reflections of White’s own journey through recovery and rediscovery. When asked how her nursing background and health challenges influenced her writing, she was candid: “Being a nurse taught me a lot about empathy and resilience. Going through brain surgery myself gave me a deeper understanding of vulnerability. Those emotions definitely show up in my stories, even if they’re told through the eyes of a dog and a little girl.”
Young readers have responded with enthusiasm. “They love Molson and Jenny,” White said. “Kids connect with them because they’re relatable. Jenny asks questions, explores the world and learns through experience — just like they do. And Molson is brave and loyal, which makes him a great companion.”
White’s journey from health care to storytelling is a testament to the power of personal transformation. Her books are not only entertaining — they’re infused with heart, healing and hope.
“I never thought I’d be doing this,” she admitted. “But writing has become a way for me to process everything I’ve been through. It’s given me a new purpose.
Jennifer White’s story is a reminder that even after life-altering events, new paths can emerge — sometimes with a wagging tail and a child’s curiosity leading the way.
White has published 12 children’s books and five colouring books in the series. The Triggering Scent should be available in early 2026, with Terror at the Manor (Book 2) expected later next year.
She has also created 10 adult colouring books — all available on Amazon. “I love to colour when I need an emotional reset,” she said. Writing children’s books, and medical thrillers can be overwhelming at times, so between colouring and the lighter side of children’s books, she finds joy, relaxation and adventure.
You can find her on Instagram at author.jennywhite,
molsontheauthor jennywhite.ca is the website for medical thrillers, molsonjennyadventures.ca is Molson’s website.Books are $20 each.
White will attend the Tilbury Night Vendor Market on Nov. 15.
St. Andrew’s United Church in Chatham will host a moving Remembrance Day concert as part of its acclaimed Saturdays at 7 series. On Saturday, November 8 at 7:00 p.m., the Windsor Classic Chorale will present Notinikew, an evocative work by Indigenous composer and narrator Andrew Balfour.
Notinikew—Cree for “going to war”—honours Indigenous soldiers who fought for Canada in the First World War. Despite their bravery, many returned to a country that denied them the very rights they had defended. Through stirring choral music and narration, Balfour gives voice to this overlooked history, sharing “the words and woes of a community and destiny too rarely heard about.”
The program features tenor Andrew Derynck of Jeanette’s Creek, baritone Adam Iannetta, cellist Karen McClellan, and song keeper Grandma Theresa, whose storytelling adds depth and authenticity to the performance.
Presented in honour of Remembrance Day, Notinikew invites reflection on war’s tragedy, reconciliation, and resilience. Donations will be accepted at the door (suggested: $20), supporting the Saturdays at 7 series and St. Andrew’s music program. For more details, call 519-352-0010 or visit standrewschatham.org/events.
Now in its twelfth season, Saturdays at 7 showcases exceptional artists across genres—classical, choral, jazz, film, and world music—creating meaningful experiences for the Chatham-Kent community.
By Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Hundreds gathered Saturday for an evening of vibrant performances, heartfelt recognition and shared joy as the Chatham-Kent Asian Cultural Association’s annual Diwali celebration brought the spirit of the Festival of Lights to life.
The event, held Oct. 25 from 7 to 10 p.m., welcomed attendees from across the region for three hours of cultural programming, community honours and festive cheer.
Diwali, one of the most celebrated festivals in the South Asian diaspora, symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and hope over despair. This year’s gathering reflected that spirit through a rich mix of performances and recognition.
The program featured folk and classical dances, including Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Bhangra, Gidda, Bollywood fusion and Chenda Melam, performed by children and adults. The stage pulsed with colour and rhythm, showcasing Chatham-Kent’s multicultural unity.
Artists from Windsor, Sarnia and neighbouring communities added sparkle to the evening with diverse traditions and talent.
Civic leaders joined the celebration, including Mayor Darrin Canniff, Chief Administrative Officer Michael Duben and Councillor Brook McGregor, who addressed the audience and took part in the ceremonial Diya lighting — a symbolic gesture marking light’s triumph over darkness.
“Diwali is more than a festival; it’s a reminder that light lives in all of us,” said CKACA president Rafi Veettil.
“When we honour each other’s stories, we build bridges, spark joy and strengthen the fabric of our community.”
For many, the event was a chance to connect across cultures. “As a Muslim Indo-Canadian living in Tilbury, I feel proud to join in Diwali,” said Javid Khandwala.
“It’s about unity and respect — values that matter to all of us.”
Harpreet Singh, a Sikh student from Ludhiana studying at a local college and working in Tilbury, echoed that sentiment. “Being far from home, this celebration makes me feel included,” he said.
“It’s a reminder that our traditions can bring people together.”
The evening also honoured community champions. Giri Thommandram received the Legacy of Service Award for decades of volunteerism. Sarah Hopkins, founder of Three Sisters Consulting, earned the Bridging Communities Award for her work in Indigenous empowerment and inclusion. The Chatham Cricket Club was recognized with the Immigrant Community Champion Award for its London Premier League win and mentorship efforts.
The event blended tradition and togetherness with colourful showcases and cultural pride.
CKACA is a volunteer-led group dedicated to celebrating South Asian heritage and fostering intercultural dialogue. Through events like Diwali, it creates spaces for storytelling, recognition and shared celebration.
By John Humphrey
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.”
Call for Volunteers: Citizen Review Committee on Council Remuneration
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent (the “Municipality”) is seeking engaged and knowledgeable individuals to serve on a Citizen Review Committee (the “Committee”) tasked with reviewing Council remuneration.
Since the last review, the Municipality has completed a third-party review of its Council composition and ward boundaries, resulting in a reduction from 18 to 15 Council members and an increase from 6 to 8 wards, effective for the 2026–2030 term. These changes aim to enhance equitable and effective representation for residents in the upcoming municipal elections.
The Committee will be reviewing current Council remuneration, assessing its competitiveness against comparable municipalities, and providing recommendations for potential adjustments. We are looking for up to six (6) residents who represent a cross-section of communities across Chatham-Kent. Ideal candidates will possess a strong foundational understanding of municipal governance, remuneration structures, and/or business acumen. Applicants are asked to submit their application form highlighting their relevant experience and qualifications. Only selected committee members will be contacted.
Committee Commitment Information:
Application Period: September 29 – October 17, 2025
Meeting Schedule: 4 to 5 meetings between November 3 and December 31, 2025
Outcome: The Committee will present its recommendations to current Council for the 2026–2030 term.
The application form is available at any Chatham-Kent Municipal Centre or Municipal Information Desk and on the Committees of Council section of the Chatham-Kent website https://www.chatham-kent.ca/localgovernment/council/Pages/Committees-of-Council.aspx
Application Form must be received by the end of business day, 4:30 p.m., Friday, October 17, 2025 at any Municipal Centre or Municipal Information Desk, by fax to 519.436.3237, email: ckclerk@chatham-kent.ca or by mail to the Judy Smith, Clerk, Municipality of Chatham-Kent, 315 King Street West, P.O. Box 640, Chatham ON, N7M 5K8.
Questions: email CKckerk@chatham-kent.ca or call 519-360-1998
FARM FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TENDER
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: Part Lot 20, Concession 3, Romney Township, Municipality of Chatham-Kent (Con 3 S PT Lot 20 EXC RP 24R4773 Part 1)
48 workable acres more or less, Brookston clay soil, systematically tiled, Crop rotation has been soy beans and winter wheat, Vacant farmland, no buildings, no current leases, easement for main drain across north end of farm (12” main) belonging to neighbouring farm
OWNER: Donald Grant Dierckens
The successful tenderer(s) will take possession on closing.
TERMS OF TENDERS: Sealed tenders being submitted, the tendered price and contact information will be received by the undersigned until 12:00 pm on October 8, 2025 with the Vendor not obligated to accept the highest or any tender. No deposit is required with the tender, but the successful tenderer will be required to enter into a standard OREA Agreement of Purchase and Sale without conditions, except as to title by October 15, 2025 and submit a deposit of $10,000.00 by bank draft payable to “Rodriguez Law Office, In Trust” at that time. Transaction is to close on or before November 7, 2025 with vacant possession after fall harvest. The property is being sold in an “as is” condition.
Interested parties may contact the undersigned to obtain any further information:
Rodriguez Law Office
Barristers & Solicitors
50 Queen St. S. Tilbury, ON
Tel. (519)682-3100