Category: Uncategorized

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

After 27 years the Belle River BIA has decided to scrap the annual Sunsplash Festival.”Sunsplash has been a cornerstone of our community’s summer celebrations, bringing people together to enjoy music, entertainment, and camaraderie by the lake. While this chapter closes, our commitment to creating memorable experiences for Belle River residents and visitors continues, stronger than ever,” said Melissa Lauzon, Executive Director, Belle River BIA.She says it was a difficult decision for the team to make and understands that residents are upset, citing finances as one the reasons for the decision. She said it was a unanimous decision by the board.”Organizing Sunsplash has become increasingly difficult over the last few years, so the decision was made after careful consideration. I know that people are looking for an answer and they feel like they’ve lost something; we completely understand that.” Lauzon said. “This event takes six months to plan ahead. “We felt that we had to ask, did this event align with what a BIA really should focus on?” said Lauzon.”With the amount of time taken away from what the BIA should be focused on was another factor.” The Classic Car Cruise will still continue this year, along with a number of Stroll the Street festivities as well as other events.”We really want to express that we understand people are upset, it was a very difficult decision to make, especially with board members who also enjoyed the event with their families too. To have that weight of the decision put on them was something that was difficult. But, it was the logical decision for the board to make,” she concluded. The BIA is planning a number of “stroll the street” events throughout the year to highlight Belle River businesses and local vendors. The 2025 lineup includes:May 9th – Mother’s Day Stroll the StreetJune 13th – Father’s Day Stroll the StreetJuly 10th – Summer Shop Local Extravaganza / Sip and SavourJuly 11th – Classic Car CruiseAugust 8th – Summer Stroll the StreetSeptember 12th – Back to School Stroll the StreetOctober 10th – Thanksgiving Stroll the Street

November 28th – Tree Lighting and Holiday Moonlight Madness

 

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

Nominations are now open for the 2025 Chatham-Kent Senior Achievement Awards, an annual recognition of older adults who have made outstanding contributions to the community through volunteerism.

Mayor Darrin Canniff and Chatham-Kent Council are inviting residents to submit nominations ahead of Seniors’ Month in June.

“We are requesting the public’s assistance to identify seniors who are making Chatham-Kent a better place to live,” Canniff said. “Everyone knows someone who has lent a helping hand, whether as part of a group or as an individual. Here is your chance to let us know about that person so we can recognize their contributions.”

Now in its 38th year, the Senior Achievement Awards have honoured more than 1,000 Chatham-Kent seniors since their inception in the 1980s. The awards are presented annually during Seniors Month in Ontario, typically held in the first week of June.

 

Since the awards began in Blenheim in 1987, more than 1,000 Chatham-Kent residents have been recognized for their contributions to the community.

The Senior of the Year Award was introduced in 2012, with past recipients including Dixie Peters of Morpeth (2014), Marion Matt of Bothwell (2015), and Bob Hamilton of Bothwell (2019).

 

How to nominate a senior

Nominations are open to Chatham-Kent residents aged 60 and older who have demonstrated significant achievements through volunteering. Submissions can be made online at Let’s Talk CK (www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca/chatham-kent-senior-achievement-awards-2025) until Sunday, April 13, 2025.

For those without computer access, assistance is available by calling 519-360-1998 ext. 3001.

Senior of the Year to be announced at Aging Well Conference

The 2025 Chatham-Kent Senior of the Year will be revealed at the Aging Well Conference on June 4, 2025, at Hidden Hills Golf and Country Club. The event is free, but registration is required through Eventbrite (https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/aging-well-conference-free-tickets-1245380178639?aff=oddtdtcreator).

The selection process is overseen by an impartial committee, and the Mayor’s Office encourages residents to help recognize seniors who have positively impacted the community.

For more information, contact Councillor Alysson Storey, CK Chair, Celebration of Older Adults, at 519-350-5689, or the Mayor’s Office at 519-360-1998 ext. 3001.

In 2024, Inder and Jarnail Gahunia were honoured as Chatham-Kent Seniors of the Year for their 45 years of dedication to the Chatham-Kent Indian and Sikh communities.

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

The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) has issued a Watershed Condition Statement – Flood Outlook, warning of potential flooding and ice jam risks along the Thames River as spring melt progresses.

A colder-than-usual winter has led to a significant snowpack in the upper Thames River watershed and a thick ice cover in the lower watershed, officials said in a statement issued March 1.

Recent above-freezing temperatures in late February have already melted most of the snow in Essex and Chatham-Kent, with smaller watercourses losing their ice cover. However, a 23 cm ice thickness remains on the Thames River from Chatham to Lighthouse Cove, slightly more than when a major ice jam occurred in 2019.

“The amount of water stored in the snowpack is about 50 per cent higher than the long-term average for this time of year,” officials said. “This increases the risk of significant flooding as the snow melts in the upper watershed.”

Ice jam risks remain high

The combination of melting snow and thick river ice raises concerns about ice jams, which occur when ice chunks break apart, jam together, and block water flow. This can lead to rapid flooding in low-lying areas.

Ice jams can develop anywhere along the Thames River but are most concerning near Lighthouse Cove and between Prairie Siding and Big Creek, where they have historically caused significant flooding. An ice jam in these areas could back up water into Chatham.

Officials say the best-case weather scenario would be a gradual melt, with daytime highs staying below double digits and nighttime temperatures dropping below freezing, combined with little to no rainfall.

Residents urged to be cautious

The LTVCA is urging residents to monitor conditions and be prepared for possible flooding in the coming weeks.

Officials are also reminding the public to stay away from watercourses, as ice and riverbanks can be unstable. Children, pets, and livestock should be kept clear of rivers, ditches, and streams.

This advisory remains in effect until April 1.

For updates, visit ltvca.ca or call 311.

By: Isabelle Bujold, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

While we might often think of libraries as offering little more than books, Jessica Foott, head of the Tilbury Branch of the Chatham-Kent Public Library, reminds us of the important role they play in fostering a sense of community.

“The library is a place for everyone in our community to connect with each other, with their creativity and imagination, as well as with their curiosity to learn,” says Foott.

The Tilbury Branch staff is dedicated to making sure patrons feel comfortable, whether they’re looking for something to read, listen to, or watch, or simply in need of information or a sense of belonging. Through its various programs and activities, the library has cultivated a safe and welcoming environment that encourages interaction, growth, and learning.

Programs include the monthly book club, which meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m.; adult craft night on the second Tuesday of each month; and children’s storytime, which will begin its next six-week session in the spring on Thursdays at 10 a.m. In addition to recurring programs, the library hosts various displays based on fun themes like Blind Date with a Book or important timely events such as Black History Month and Afrofuturism. Foott also encourages patrons to stop by anytime to chat with staff about books they are currently reading or to get help finding their next great read.

“These programs help create connections between community members as they interact with each other,” Foott explains. “They promote and help grow different literacies for patrons, whether it’s physical through storytime or emotional literacy in book club. They also foster a sense of curiosity and discovery through exposure to new ideas in displays or in conversations with other patrons.”

When asked about upcoming events, Foott shared, “I am excited for our upcoming March Break programming as well as our spring programs. Our program flyer will be released during March Break and will include programs for all ages!”

The best part? There is no cost to attend any of these programs. Most operate on a drop-in basis, and if registration is required, it will be listed in the program description. To sign up or for more information, patrons can call the Tilbury Branch at 519-682-0100.

So, whether you’re looking for a new book, a fun activity, or just a welcoming space to spend time, the Tilbury library has something for you. Through shared experiences like reading or crafting, patrons can build relationships and foster a sense of belonging. As the library works to inspire curiosity and discovery, it opens up opportunities for learning that extend beyond traditional education.

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.