The Ridgetown Independent News

RIDGETOWN MAN TASERED WHILE RESISTING ARREST Around 3:00 a.m. this morning, an officer on general patrol located a stolen truck and trailer parked in a parking lot on Victoria Road in Ridgetown. As the officer approached the truck to further investigate, the man falsely identified himself and attempted to drive away. The officer was able to stop the man and place him under arrest. The man resisted arrest by continuing to accelerate and trying to drive away. The man was ta...ken out of the truck and a struggle ensued as the man became aggressive. The man was taken into custody as the officer successfully deployed his conductive energy weapon (taser). The 47-year-old Ridgetown man has been charged with theft over $5000, two counts of being in possession of property obtained by a crime over $5000, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, obstruct police and resist arrest. He has been held in custody pending a bail hearing.

GOOD NEWS - RECEIVED AFTER PRESS DEADLINE! It was an exciting day and a major turning point in the pandemic locally as the first individuals in Chatham-Kent were vaccinated for the COVID-19 virus. A shipment of COVID-19 vaccine arrived in Chatham-Kent this morning and CK Public Health staff promptly prepared the vaccine for delivery to Long-Term Care Homes (LTCHs) to begin inoculating residents. The vaccines are being safely administered by trained staff from both CK Public H...ealth and Chatham-Kent EMS. I felt like I was witnessing a historic moment said Dr. Dixon, attending physician at Riverview Gardens. The combination of months of hard work coupled with scientific research enables us to deliver one of the safest vaccines in the history of public health. I am filled with emotion for those who have suffered great losses and recognize the emotional burden this has placed on all of us these past 11 months. This is the shot in the arm we have been waiting for, said Lori Marshall, President and CEO, Chatham-Kent Health Alliance. This initial rollout is a major turning point for us in the pandemic; we’ve seen rising cases in our own community and increased hospitalizations. The vaccine is critical to help save lives and protect hospital services. "Under the province’s Ethical Framework for COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution, LTCHs are the first priority population to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. This population is most vulnerable to the transmission and spread of the virus. Frankly, I could not be happier that this moment has arrived!" said Dr. David Colby, Medical of Officer for Chatham-Kent. Bill Breedon, a resident at Riverview Gardens (RVG), led the way as the first individual to receive the vaccine today at the Long-Term Care Home. I’m very grateful to be the first resident at Riverview Gardens to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. I am saying yes to the vaccine for health reasons; I have a history of strokes and want protection from the disease and the severe symptoms that can come along with it, said Mr. Breedon. Mary Alice Searles Director, Seniors Services, RVG, shared the elation and sense of relief that is being felt amongst residents, staff and essential caregivers at the home. Riverview Gardens is thrilled to be receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. It has been a long 11 months, and we have been fortunate that with diligence, hard work and a healthy dose of luck, that we have not had any of our residents contract the disease, said Ms. Searles. We are relieved and thankful we can protect our residents, staff and caregivers against this deadly virus. This is the light at the end of a very long tunnel! This first shipment of vaccine will be administered as quickly as possible. The first dose in Chatham-Kent was given today at 2:12 pm. While vaccine remains in limited supply, CK Public Health, Chatham-Kent EMS and CKHA will follow the provincial framework in the rollout of the vaccine locally over the coming months.

To our many callers today on whether school will be returning on Monday, January 25 ... the quick answer is NO, it will remain virtual. What was sent to media outlets: Today, the Ontario Minister of Education extended the remote learning period for elementary and secondary students in the Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB). The provincial announcement did not state the expected date for the return to in-person learning for schools within the LKDSB. We will share this ...information once it is available. LKDSB Virtual Learn at Home schools will continue to operate on their regular schedule. Visit the LKDSB website to read the message to LKDSB parents/guardians regarding the extension of remote learning: https://www.lkdsb.net/Pages/newsitem.aspx

HOME INVASION IN RIDGETOWN On November 25, around 8:30 p.m. a serious home invasion occurred at a residence in Ridgetown. Through investigation, police learned that three suspect(s) in possession of a baseball bat and firearm, forced their way into the victim’s residence. An altercation ensued and the men fled prior to police arrival. The scene was examined and forensic evidence was se...ized for DNA testing. Investigators have reviewed video surveillance footage from the area and are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying those responsible. The Major Crime Unit has taken over this investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Cole Abbott at [email protected] or 519-380-6024. Anonymous callers may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) and may be eligible for a cash reward. See more

CONFUSED ABOUT LOCKDOWN? We hope these statements will help. CHATHAM-KENT POLICE statement -... Community safety has been and remains our number one priority throughout this Pandemic. Our Police Service is committed to working with community partners in balancing overall public safety and health. Officers will continue to engage and educate the citizens of our community in an effort to seek compliance with enforcement being used, as the last resort, says Chief Gary Conn. The Chatham-Kent Police will NOT be randomly stopping vehicles or people walking, for the sole purpose of checking for compliance with the Stay-at-Home Order. We will continue to be proactive in an effort to educate citizens if an offence is observed to ensure compliance. We will also triage complaints with Municipal By-Law officers. Complaints and concerns regarding violations should be reported by calling 311 or via email [email protected] DON SHROPSHIRE - CEO C-K - He was asked if someone went to do curbside service, such as purchase a can of paint would they be ticketed? His response - In terms of an enforcement piece, here's what I would suggest. We have been encouraged by the province to take a stronger role in doing enforcement. Meaning that people can no longer say after 10 months, well, I didn't know, right? I know, people trying to get around it that that's wearing pretty thin. So I would expect if someone was to do something like, you know, have a party or two, disrespect the five people, immediate household maximum gathering, and so on. That's the sort of thing that I think people are going to be called upon. I don't see the bylaw enforcement officers waiting outside of the paint store for someone to pick up that gallon of paint. Our bylaw enforcement officers are still looking at primarily driven by complaints or when people have recognized a concern. We have the Public Safety Safety line, which's been open ever since this pandemic started in the spring. And we're still encouraging people, if they have a concern or a question to call into the line, we'll try and give them good information. But we're doing everything we can to be reasonable, and try and support our community. We're not running around trying to find tickets. But for people who are non-compliant, we have to say, Hey, this is no longer acceptable, we need people to lean into how they can help ensure our safety. IN OTHER WORDS ... yes, you can go pick up your curbside order, go get a loaf of bread, get take-out service, get your mail, exercise, etc. - but they are asking you to STAY HOME if you really don't need anything or stay away from others outside your household.

REMINDER TO REGISTER .... DEADLINE COMING SOON ...

MISSING PERSON INVESTIGATION CONTINUES The Chatham-Kent Police Service continues to look for Terry Want, 46 years of age. Officers have followed up on unconfirmed sightings and used all police resources available at this time with negative results. ... Mr. Want was last seen on October 23, 2020 in Chatham. Police and family members are concerned for his safety and well-being. Anyone with information is asked to call police immediately at 519-352-1234 x9 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

They've changed it up this year - decorate your yard (not just your doorway as in past years) and you could win ONE OF FIVE $100.00 PRIZES ... let's get decorating and show everyone Ridgetown's Holiday spirit. This event is sponsored by the Ridgetown Rejuvenation Association with assistance from the Ridgetown BIA and the Chamber of Commerce. You don't need to enter, judges will be driving by each home inside the boundaries of Ridgetown on December 9th.

Chatham-Kent Police are asking you to look out for this trailer. On Thursday, November 12, around noon, the owner was towing his 2014 Keystone Sprinter 32’ trailer on Bradley Line when the trailer sustained a flat tire. The trailer was left parked on the side of Town Line Road while the owner drove to Tilbury to get the tire repaired. Upon his return around 3:00 p.m., the trailer was gone. The trailer was last seen with Ontario license plate K65 502. The total value of the theft has been estimated at $40,000. Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Nicole Bechard at [email protected] or 519-436-6600 extension #87057. Anonymous callers may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) and may be eligible for a cash reward.

TRICK OR TREAT NUMBERS Good luck everyone and congratulations to all the winners so far! Over half of the numbers have been claimed, and one bike has been won, with one bike to still be claimed. 6240607 6240612 6240640... 6240669 6240690 6240697 6240721 6240722 6240728 6240736 6240768 6240796 6240808 6240812 6240813 6240822 6240832 6240837 6240859 6240894 6240902 6240911 6240931 6240942 6240957 6240964 6240965 6240991 6241009 6241033 6241034 6241035 6241040 6241044 6241047 6241054 6241058 6241064 6241069 6241079 6241098 6241101 6241110 6241113 6241115 6241117 6241126 6241139 6241140 6241143 6241149 6241150 6241153 6241155 6241174 6241179 6241181 6241187 6241191 6241193 You have until Friday, November 13 at 3 p.m. to claim your prize at the Ridgetown Independent News during their regular office hours.

TWO CONFIRMED COVID-19 CASES DECLARED AT BLENHEIM SCHOOL CK Public Health is reporting the first cases of COVID-19 in a school community in Chatham-Kent, at St. Anne Catholic School in Blenheim. Two individuals contracted COVID-19 outside of school and are self-isolating. Due to privacy considerations, further information about the individuals can not be provided. CK Public Health is working with the St. Clair Catholic District School Board to provide the next steps and addit...ional support. Public Health has contacted close contacts of the individuals testing positive for COVID-19 and advised all contacts to isolate as a precaution until further direction is provided. If you have not been contacted by CK Public Health, you have not been in close contact with the positive cases in this current situation. Please continue to follow public health advice to keep COVID-19 controlled in our community: only travel for essential purposes, physical distance (2 metres) from others, wear a mask, wash your hands or use 70% alcohol hand sanitizer frequently, and stay home if you are unwell. See more

TRICK OR TREAT COUPON WINNERS - After receiving so many calls today that you found your winning ticket number in the paper, NO, the child does not have to come in with you, you can bring in the winning ticket and claim their prize, just put their name on the back of the ticket and bring it in during office hours. One of the bikes has been claimed, and there is still one up for grabs ... good luck everyone.

The missing woman from Thamesville was just located SAFELY ... the Chatham-Kent Police thank everyone for their help.

Kids - Head to the arena parking lot from 2-4 p.m. on Saturday, October 31st for your bag of goodies ... see poster for details.

THIEVES STRIKE TWICE Sometime Wednesday, October 7th, between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., unknown suspect(s) forced their way into a residence on Albert Avenue in Ridgetown. Once inside, the suspect(s) stole five (5) totes containing commemorative hockey jerseys along with a Mats Sundin signed print and Sidney Crosby signed print. The total value of the theft has been estimated at $6,800. On Thursday night, October 8th, the homeowner’s blue 2019 Dodge Ram pick-up truck was st...olen. The truck was last seen with Ontario license plates 269 3NK. Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Trevor Biskey at [email protected] or 519-436-6600 extension #87311. Anonymous callers may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) and may be eligible for a cash reward. See more

MOBILE MARKET IN RIDGETOWN WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7 The Mobile Market is adding new locations to its weekly route. Starting this week, the Mobile Market will be adding Ridgetown and Blenheim, along with others to their routes. Since launching three weeks ago, the Mobile Market has handed out almost 200 boxes of fresh, local produce. They have also received generous produce donations from various local growers and are being supported by Chatham-Kent Public Health’s Gleaning Progr...am. It is amazing to see our community coming together to make sure healthy food is accessible to people across our community, Heather Tulloch, Community Food Connector for the Prosperity Roundtable Everyone is welcome to participate in the Mobile Market. All produce boxes are free in the get a box, give a box campaign. As you pick up your produce box, you have the option to pay it forward by donating and helping another person get a produce box. Operating times: Tuesdays Tilbury from 9:00-10:00 @ the Tilbury Arena Wheatley from 10:30-11:30 @ Wheatley Baptist Church Merlin from 12:30-1:30 @ the Merlin Legion Blenheim from 1:30-2:30 @ Blenheim Baptist Church Wednesdays Thamesville from 9:30-10:30 @ St. Paul’s Church Bothwell from 11:00-12:00 @ the Bothwell Legion Highgate from 12:30-1:30 @ the Lion’s Club Ridgetown from 2:00-3:00 @ Ridgetown Legion Thursdays Pain Court from 12:00-13:00 @ Pain Court Main Park Dresden from 10:30-11:30 @ Dresden Rotary Park See more

IT’S TIME TO VOTE! Ridgetown has four entries vying for a chance to win $1,000 in This Old Newspaper?! contest and they now need your votes. The entries include (entered as submitted): 1. Letty Peltier - guitar 2. Abigail Dickens - unicorn hat 3. Morgan Hawthorne and Barbara Phair - painting... 4. Mazzelyn Galbraith - camera Voting is now open and will remain open until October 31st. The voting link is: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VDVYYJS See more

RIDGETOWN CAMPUS STUDENT TESTS POSTIVE FOR COVID-19 Chatham-Kent Public Health has learned that a student attending the University of Guelph’s Ridgetown Campus has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual resides outside of Chatham-Kent. Ridgetown Campus is working with CK Public Health by providing contact information and support for students and staff who have been in contact with the case.... CK Public Health has contacted all of those who were in close contact with the positive individual. Public health has advised these individuals to get tested for COVID-19 at their nearest testing location and to isolate at home. The health and safety of our staff, students and community are top priorities at the University of Guelph’s Ridgetown campus, says Ken McEwan, Ridgetown Campus director. We have implemented a number of protocols to minimize the spread of COVID-19, including self-screening, self-monitoring, alternate delivery learning and cohort classroom organization, in addition to the safety measures recommended by Public Health. I want to extend a personal thank you to our community -- both on and off-campus -- for your patience, cooperation and understanding during this unprecedented time, adds McEwan.

POLICE EXECUTE SEARCH WARRANT On September 16, members of the Chatham-Kent Police Service Intelligence Unit executed a search warrant at a Greenhouse facility on Maynard Line. Over a three-day period, members of the Chatham-Kent Police dismantled an illegal drug operation and seized over $7,300,000 in marihuana. Due to the complexity of this operation, the investigation remains on-going, and charges are pending. This is a significant amount of drugs associated to an illegal... drug operation, says Chief Gary Conn. Our officers, including members of our Street Crimes and Drug Unit, worked on this project for several days. It required the use of many resources, including our front line officers, and I am very pleased to see (once again) an investigation of this magnitude come to a successful conclusion, with the seizure of such an extraordinary amount of illicit drugs being removed from our streets. - From a CKPS report. See more

MISSING GIRL FOUND UPDATE: The 12-year-old missing girl from Chatham has been located safely. The Chatham-Kent Police thank everyone for their assistance.

BREAK AND ENTER ERIE STREET, RIDGETOWN Sometime between Sunday, September 6 and Thursday, September 10, unknown suspect(s) forced their way into a home on Erie Street causing about $1,000 damage. Once inside, the suspect(s) stole various electronics and items valued at approximately $3,000. Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Corey Aitken at [email protected] or 519-436-6600 extension #87322. Anonymous callers may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) and may be eligible for a cash reward.

DIRT COUNTRY will be at the arena parking lot stage trailer Saturday, September 12 starting at 7:00 p.m. Gates will open at 6:30 p.m. (Rain Date, Sunday, September 13) Attendants will be on hand to park you in an assigned spot. To best allow for social distancing; every other parking spot will be utilized for parking with a sitting area between - be sure to bring your lawn chairs! This is a FREE event, sponsored by the East Kent Celebrates Committee, but a free-will offering ...will collection will take place to offset expenses. PLEASE remember COVID-19 guidelines during this event and stay 6’ apart! You may bring lawn chairs and sit in the empty parking spot on the one side of your vehicle, or you can remain in your vehicle. See more

UNITY STATION will once again be at the arena parking lot stage trailer Sunday, August 16th starting at 7:00 p.m. Gates will open at 6:30 p.m. Attendants will be on hand to park you in an assigned spot. To best allow for social distancing; every other parking spot will be utilized for parking with a sitting area between - be sure to bring your lawn chairs! This is a FREE event, sponsored by the Emmanuel Congregational Church, but a free-will offering will collection will take... place to offset expenses. The Saturday, August 8th event went extremely well, with COVID-19 guidelines adhered to ... great job everyone! PLEASE remember COVID-19 guidelines during this event and stay 6’ apart! You may bring lawn chairs and sit in the empty parking spot and the left side of your vehicle, or you can remain in your vehicle.

BOATING TRIP LINKED TO NEW C-K CASES An investigation by CK Public Health has revealed that 12 new COVID-19 cases in Chatham-Kent are linked to a boating trip involving multiple households. This trip was outside of Chatham-Kent and was several days in duration. CK Public Health is isolating these cases and tracing their contacts, of which there is a very large number. While we are in Stage 3, members of the community need to be reminded that we are still in a pandemic, and t...he potential for rapid spread of COVID-19 is very real, says Dr. David Colby, Medical Officer of Health. Social circles are a maximum of 10 people for good reason; with everyone else we must physically distance. While spending time outdoors, please ensure that you physically distance (2 metres) from others, stay home when you are unwell, not exceed the gathering limits (50 indoors and 100 outdoors) and use 70% alcohol hand sanitizer frequently. Please be mindful and respect the space of other social circles.

UNITY STATION will be at the arena parking lot stage trailer Saturday, August 8th starting at 7:00 p.m. Gates will open at 6:30 p.m. Attendants will be on hand to park you in an assigned spot. To best allow for social distancing; every other parking spot will be utilized for parking with a sitting area between - be sure to bring your lawn chairs!... This is a FREE event, sponsored by the East Kent Celebrates Committee, but donations would be appreciated. Thank You to each one of you for your community spirit. Let’s have fun and bring a little sunshine into our community. PLEASE remember COVID-19 guidelines during this event and stay 6’ apart! You may bring lawn chairs and sit in the empty parking spot and the left side of your vehicle, or you can remain in your vehicle.

FALSE ACCOUNTS ON SOME SOCIAL MEDIA SITES REGARDING THE 7-ELEVEN IN CHATHAM Contrary to accounts on social media, CK Public Health did not order the 7- Eleven convenience store at 10 Grand Avenue West in Chatham to be closed. Any risk to the Chatham-Kent community remains low. Close contacts of COVID-19 patients are directly contacted by CK Public Health and given further instructions.... If you begin to experience symptoms of COVID-19, please self isolate and schedule an appointment for testing at the COVID-19 Assessment Centre. Please continue to follow public health measures during this time: Physical distancing of 2 metres must be maintained and face coverings can be worn indoors if physical distancing is not possible Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer with 70% alcohol frequently Stay home if you’re not feeling well, and get tested for COVID-19

MAN CHARGED UNDER QUARANTINE ACT Last weekend, police received information that a local man had recently returned from the United States and was failing to comply with the mandatory 14-day self-isolation order as per the federal Quarantine Act. Through investigation, police learned that the man travelled to Florida and returned to Canada on July 10, 2020, via Pearson International Airport, making him bound by t...he Quarantine Act until July 24, 2020. During this time, the man failed to self-isolate and potentially exposed not only his family and friends but several members of our community. The Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit is investigating. Last night, the Chatham-Kent Police Service charged the 41-year-old Chatham man with failing to comply with an order, contrary to section 58 of the federal Quarantine Act. He was issued a $1,130 fine. It is certainly unfortunate and disheartening that anyone would place themselves and more importantly others at risk by not following the simple direction provided to them in respect to self-quarantine. In order for us to mitigate this pandemic, a collaborative approach is going to be required by all of us and I would please request that everyone does their part to ensure this occurs, says Chief Gary Conn. See more

Check out the Yard Sales tomorrow in Ridgetown - and please remember to adhere to COVID-19 safety rules when doing so. The yard sale map below was sponsored by the Ridgetown BIA.

THAMESVILLE MOBILE DRIVE-THRU COVID-19 TESTING CLINIC THURSDAY AND FRIDAY A mobile drive-thru COVID-19 testing clinic is going to be held in Thamesville on July 23 and 24. Anyone who believes they require a COVID-19 swab test can go to this clinic and receive a test. This testing initiative will also be available to residents who do not arrive in a vehicle. Thamesville Mobile Drive-Thru COVID-19 Testing Clinic... DATE: Thursday, July 23 and Friday, July, 24 TIME: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. LOCATION: Thamesville Area Public School (30 Mary Street, Thamesville, ON, N0P 2K0) The mobile drive-thru COVID-19 clinic will operate as follows: The clinic will take place in the parking lot of the Thamesville Area Public School. Please line up on Mary Street East for the clinic entrance at Lamila Street. No appointment is needed. Signage will direct patients upon arrival for both those who arrive in vehicles and those who do not. A staff member will register you while you are in your car. Please bring a valid Ontario health card. The health care team will perform the COVID-19 swab test while you are in your car; please remain in your car after you register to receive a test. Patients will be sent home with information on self-isolation and how to view their test results online. CK Public Health will call ALL patients who are swabbed at these clinics regardless of their results. If heat warnings are in effect on clinic days, out of precaution, please do not bring children and frail adults in cars who are not being tested, as well as pets. You do not need to be in a vehicle to attend the clinic. Walk-ups are welcome.

The Ridgetown BIA and the Ridgetown Chamber of Commerce sponsored a decorating contest, and the first-place winners were the O’Rourke-Spence family home located at 127 Main Street West in Ridgetown. Pictured above, left to right, are Charlie Mitton (BIA and Chamber president), Shaun O’Rourke, Spencer O’Rourke, Crystal Spence and MP Dave Epp (absent from photo is Braydon O’Rourke, due to nap time). MP Epp made a tour through Chatham-Kent on Canada Day and stopped by the winners’ home to congratulate them. They received $200 Ridgetown Dollars for their efforts.

RIDGETOWN TOWNWIDE YARD SALES - July 25 The Ridgetown BIA has taken on the challenge of organizing the event this year, and if you are going to participate by having a yard sale, all you have to do is email ([email protected]), call (519-674-5205) or stop in the Independent News and let them know your address (only) and your yard sale will be listed in the July 22 paper at NO cost to you. The deadline to have your yard sale listed is Thursday, July 16 at 3 p.m. Social distancing protocols must be followed during this event!

The members of the East Kent Vintage Equipment Club and the East Kent Canada Celebrates Committee have done a terrific job building this stage ... It is ready to have your keepsake graduation photo taken on it ... see below ..

TIME CHANGE - Dave EPP and his small parade are planning to head down Ridgetown's Main Street today around 2 p.m. (give or take a bit) to wish everyone a Happy Canada Day at a safe distance. If you can create a sign and tell him what being a Canadian means to you! Show your support Ridgetown. Happy Canada Day!

GET YOUR SIGNS READY, MP EPP 'PARADE' COMING TO RIDGETOWN JULY 1ST If Canadians can’t come to Canada Day, then Canada Day will have to come to the people. With that, MP Dave Epp announced that he will spend about eight hours travelling throughout Chatham-Kent-Leamington, sharing a bit of Canadian pride and capturing images of the riding on this historic Canada Day during this historic pandemic. If the pandemic prevents us from coming together in traditional Canada Day cel...ebrations to express our love for Canada, then let’s decorate our homes and share our love of one of the greatest countries in the world, said Epp. We are going to decorate just a few vehicles, so we don’t spend our time waiting for people to make it through intersections, and spend the day travelling across our magnificent riding taking pictures of Chatham-Kent-Leamington, waving the flag and greetings while creating a historical photo album of residents’ homes, and messages of hope and encouragement. The continued uncertainty created by COVID-19 makes celebrating Canada Day as a community a real challenge, but we hope this idea helps share some community sense of self-expression and connectivity. Epp said citizens can share their message with statements such as: To me, being Canadian means or Chatham-Kent-Leamington is . Epp said it would be great to have some people who work growing and producing food to make up signs celebrating with others that We help feed Canada and the world. It is believed that MP Epp and his parade will be in Ridgetown around 3 p.m. See more

The Ridgetown BIA and the Ridgetown Chamber of Commerce want you to show your Canadian pride and thank Frontline workers by decorating your home, bike, driveway ... you could win Ridgetown $$$$$ and two lucky kids could win a bicycle. See below for details!

UPDATE ON HOME INVASION IN RIDGETOWN Early Sunday morning, June 14, shortly after 5 a.m., three men carrying baseball bats entered an apartment on Victoria Avenue, knocking over the homeowner as she unlocked the door. Once inside, the men assaulted two men inside the apartment and left. Both victims sustained serious injuries and were transported to the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance. On Monday, June 14, police identified one of the men involved, and he was arrested. The 33-...year-old Ridgetown man has been charged with break and enter - commit aggravated assault, being in possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and two counts of break and enter commit assault with a weapon. He was released pending a future court date of August 19. Chatham-Kent Police continue to look for the other two men and believe the incident was not a random act of violence. Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Paul Brophy at [email protected] or 519-436-6600 extension #619. Anonymous callers may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) and may be eligible for a cash reward. See more

HOME INVASION IN RIDGETOWN On Sunday morning, June 14th, just after 5 a.m., three men carrying baseball bats entered an apartment on Victoria Avenue, knocking over the homeowner as she unlocked the door. Once inside, the men assaulted two men inside the apartment and left. Both victims sustained serious injuries and were transported to the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance. The unknown parties then vacated the residence and were gone on police arrival. The two victims sustained head injuries and were transported to the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance. The investigation is on-going, and there are currently no suspects. Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Paul Brophy at [email protected] or 519-436-6600 extension #619. Anonymous callers may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) and may be eligible for a cash reward.

SCAMMERS TAKE ADVANTAGE OF COUPLE BY SELLING THEM FAKE JEWELRY On Monday afternoon, a woman reported to police that over the weekend, she was stopped at a Service Centre in the Ridgetown area with her husband, when they were approached by two men, selling jewelry for cash as they needed money for their children. The couple agreed to pay $250 for two rings, a pendant and chain. They later learned that the jewelry was of little value. The Chatham-Kent Police Service would like to remind citizens not to fall prey of scams that aim at taking advantage of people’s generosity. If the situation appears suspicious, use caution and call police immediately with physical descriptors of those involved along with a description of their vehicle including the license plate, if possible.

ARE YOU I NEED OF A LITTLE ASSISTANCE RIGHT NOW? Anyone in need of assistance can go to the Ridgetown Scout Hut on FRIDAY & SATURDAY MAY 29 & 30 FROM 10 A.M. TO 6 P.M.... and obtain donation items that were collected as part of the May 16th Miracle! If you are in need of food right now, it is there for you! See more

Today is the day - MAY 16TH MIRACLE ... Don't forget to put your canned good out on your front porch this morning before noon. Let's make this miracle happen! Thanks to all involved.

30 NEW CASES SINCE MONDAY As of press time, Monday, May 11, there were 90 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Today as of press time, Friday, May 15, there are 120 confirmed cases in Chatham-Kent. There are 34 active cases with 85 recovered. There has been one death. There have been 2,268 people tested with 51 tests still pending. Eighty of the confirmed cases are the result of an outbreak at the Greenhill Produce plant in Kent Bridge (30 active cases, 50 recovered). The Province directed health units to test all residents and staff in long term care homes for COVID-19 as a one-time surveillance study. There are currently no outbreaks in any Chatham-Kent long-term care or retirement homes.

A FEW REMAINING ITEMS First of all thanks to all who came out and claimed their belongings last Saturday and Sunday at Greenwood Cemetery. Pictured above is what is remaining. If you recognize anything that belongs to you please call the Independent at 519-674-5205 and ask for Jim, or email us at [email protected] and he will get back to you.

NO NEW CASES IN C-K TODAY Confirmed COVID-19 Cases & Testing in Chatham-Kent As of May 7th at 12:30 p.m. Active Cases: 54* Confirmed Cases 89... Recovered 35 Deaths 1 Currently Hospitalized 0 Current Long-Term Care & Retirement Home Outbreaks 0 Total Tested 1935 Total Pending 31 *51 of the confirmed cases are the result of an outbreak at a local workplace. There were no more additional cases added to this today.

Do any of these things pictured belong to you? As previously posted Greenwood Cemetery recovered a large number of items that have been removed from gravesites. If you are missing something from a grave, items that were recovered will be available to be viewed at the back of the cemetery, beside the Scattering Garden, this Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. and Sunday, May 10 from noon to 3 p.m.

TWO MORE CASE IN C-K TODAY Confirmed COVID-19 Cases & Testing in Chatham-Kent Last updated: May 1 Active Cases: 52 Confirmed Cases 85*... Recovered 32 Deaths 1 Currently Hospitalized 0 Total Tested 1803 Total Pending 72 *48 of the confirmed cases are the result of an outbreak at a local workplace. There were no more additional cases added to this today.

Article in the Independent this week .. GRAVES VANDALIZED AT GREENWOOD CEMETERY Overnight Friday, April 24, vandals removed items from an estimated 200 graves at Greenwood Cemetery. While no damage has been noted to actual monuments, the desecration of memorization from graves is devastating. Saturday morning, a large pile of items was discovered piled at the front fence east of the driveway on Reeders Line. It would appear they were collected waiting to be picked up but may... have been scared off, stated Jim Brown, Chair, Greenwood Cemetery. It is unknown if anything was actually stolen. Items recovered include flowers, monument saddles, mementoes such as figurines including approximately 55 angels, statuary, one actual grave marker, medallions from volunteer firefighter graves and the bronze plaque from the Vimy Oak in the Legion Plot and other various items. All recovered items are now in safekeeping, and Greenwood is presently working on plans to work with families to return items to their rightful place. Watch next week’s Independent for information. If you noticed any activity or have a dashcam video of vehicles parked at Greenwood late Friday, please contact Chatham Kent Police, Crimestoppers or Greenwood Cemetery at 519-674-5205. See more

ONE MORE CASE IN C-K TODAY Confirmed COVID-19 Cases & Testing in Chatham-Kent Last updated: April 30 Active Cases: 52... Confirmed Cases 83* Recovered 30 Deaths 1 Currently Hospitalized 0 Total Tested 1772 Total Pending 64 *48 of the confirmed cases are the result of an outbreak at a local workplace.

FOUR MORE CASES IN C-K TODAY Confirmed COVID-19 Cases & Testing in Chatham-Kent Last updated: April 29 Active Cases: 52... Confirmed Cases 82* Recovered 29 Deaths 1 Currently Hospitalized 0 Total Tested 1702 Total Pending 96 *47 of the confirmed cases are the result of an outbreak at a local workplace.

Three more cases confirmed. Confirmed COVID-19 Cases & Testing in Chatham-Kent Last updated: April 28 Active Cases: 51... Confirmed Cases 78* Recovered 26 Deaths 1 Currently Hospitalized 0 Total Tested 1652 Total Pending 121 *43 of the confirmed cases are the result of an outbreak at a local workplace.

There are now 75 cases of COVID-19 in Chatham-Kent, with 48 active cases today. A COVID-19 outbreak has been declared at Greenhill Produce (Kent Bridge) in Chatham-Kent. To date, 40 employees have tested positive for the virus. The outbreak is being contained, and any individuals that could have been exposed have been contacted states Dr. David Colby, Chatham-Kent’s Medical Officer of Health. Every individual who has tested positive or had symptoms is in isolation. All pe...rsons that they have come into contact have been notified by our team, and have been isolated and directed to watch for symptoms. CK Public Health would like to inform the public that all appropriate measures regarding infection control are in place. This is Public Health states Colby. This is what we’ve done with disease outbreaks long before COVID-19, what we do every day of this pandemic, and what we will continue to do long after this virus has subsided.

Confirmed COVID-19 Cases & Testing in Chatham-Kent Last updated: April 26 Active Cases 21 Confirmed Cases 46... Recovered 24 Deaths 1 Currently Hospitalized 0 Total Tested 1557 Total Pending 338

Update on Confirmed COVID-19 Cases & Testing in Chatham-Kent Last updated: Saturday, April 25 Two more since last posted.... Active Cases 18 Confirmed Cases 42 Recovered 23 Deaths 1 Currently Hospitalized 0 Total Tested 1529 Total Pending 361

Posted below is one of the questions asked during the Chatham-Kent media conference which was published in the Independent News. Mayor Darrin Canniff, Chief Administrative Officer Don Shropshire, Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Colby and Chatham-Kent Health Alliance CEO Lori Marshall were on hand for the conference call. Question - What is the municipality doing to help those in the agriculture sector? Answered by Mayor Darrin Canniff - The Economic Development has reache...d out to literally hundreds of businesses, and certainly some that are tied to agriculture. With the supply chains, we are doing all we can, along with making connections. With the migrant workers, we are encouraging that, and Dr. Colby can chime in on the process of getting them here. That is one of the bigger barriers right now. Answered by Dr. David Colby - The Federal law for people coming into Canada states that they have to be quarantined for two weeks. This has been very disruptive, to be fair to say to the agricultural industry that depends on foreign workers to be able to get production looked after. There is no exception allowed for that under Federal law, and we don’t have any choice but to comply with that. Quite honestly, we are isolating everybody else under similar circumstances for two weeks, so it does make sense. Answered by Don Shropshire - Concerning the temporary foreign workers, the primary area where we’ve been asked for support from the agricultural community is assisting with linking them up with local people to provide accommodations to allow for the two-week mandatory quarantine for people coming into Canada. There have been some expressions of fear from members of the population. They see people coming in, and they’re fearful people are going to bring COVID into our community, and I think what Dr. Colby says is very important, these folks are going through a mandatory quarantine for 14 days. They’re taking the same precaution as if they were a Canadian returning to Canada. These folks have been coming back for a number of years. We are taking precautions. We believe it’s safe. We believe it’s also essential for our agricultural community. See more

TODAY'S NUMBERS Confirmed COVID-19 Cases & Testing in Chatham-Kent Last updated: April 24 Active Cases 16... Confirmed Cases 40 Recovered 23 Deaths 1 Currently Hospitalized 0 TotalTested 1300 Total Pending 286 See more

THREE MORE CASES IN C-K Confirmed COVID-19 Cases & Testing in Chatham-Kent Last updated: April 23 Active Cases: 20... Confirmed Cases 40 Recovered 19 Deaths 1 Currently Hospitalized 0 TotalTested 1215 Total Pending 219 Note: On April 21, the Province directed health units to test all residents and staff in long term care homes for COVID-19 as a one-time surveillance study. This will take several weeks to complete.

Confirmed COVID-19 Cases & Testing in Chatham-Kent Last updated: April 22 Confirmed Cases 37... Recovered 15 Deaths 1 Total Tested 1155 Total Pending 217

Last week, as of press time Monday, April 13, there were 25 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Today as of press time, Monday, April 20, there are 31 confirmed cases in Chatham-Kent; 15 have recovered and one has died. There have been 1032 people tested with 194 tests still pending. There are two cases between the ages of 20-29, three between the ages of 30-39, six between the ages of 40-49, seven between the ages of 50-59, ten between the ages of 60-69, two between the ages of 70-79, and one over the age of 80.

On Tuesday, the province of Ontario extended the state of emergency until May 12, 2020. The Municipality of Chatham-Kent would like to remind everyone of the importance of following the rules set in place by the province. Shelley Bechard, head of COVID 19 dispatch says, The municipal tip line is working well. We understand sometimes it is difficult to make the call to report a violation, but we appreciate the effort from everyone who is helping to keep our community safe.... When reporting a violation, we would ask that callers be factual with the information they are providing and if possible have the address of where the violation is taking place. This information helps the enforcement team with their investigation. Because this is an ever-evolving situation, the tip line can be used for general questions regarding COVID-19 or for those individuals who would like clarification on the restrictions. Currently, the enforcement team has responded to over 600 concerns. From those concerns, 169 warnings have been given and 1 charge has been laid. Based on these numbers the majority of citizens are listening, said Paul Lacina, Director of Building Development Services. Although we continue to educate, we are past the point where it is acceptable for people to ignore the State of Emergency and the rules that go along with it. Fines will be laid to those in violation Residents of Chatham-Kent concerned that a person or business is violating physical distancing orders can call the municipal tip line at 519-360-1998.

Daily Update on Confirmed COVID-19 Cases & Testing in Chatham-Kent Last updated: April 17, 12:30pm (updated daily). Confirmed Cases... 29 Recovered 12 Deaths 1 Total Tested 825 Tests Pending 157

Number of confirmed cases in Chatham-Kent Last updated: April 15, 2020 at 12:15pm Confirmed COVID-19 cases* 25 Deaths among confirmed cases 1 Confirmed cases who have recovered 11... Confirmed cases currently hospitalized 0 See more

PART 2 - VILLAGE RESIDENTS CHECKED DAILY FOR SIGNS OF ILLNESS Are residents being checked daily for temperatures or any signs they are feeling ill? Yes, our staff closely monitors our residents daily for any respiratory symptoms, fever, sore throat or cough. As soon as someone is symptomatic they are placed in isolation, outbreak protocols are adopted, and a swab is taken and sent for testing....Continue reading

Below is part of an article that appeared in the Ridgetown Independent News ... VILLAGE RESIDENTS CHECKED DAILY FOR SIGNS OF ILLNESS We must do everything in our power to care for and support Ontario’s most vulnerable population, said Dr. Merrilee Fullerton, Minister of Long-Term Care, in a news release. I want to assure you that we are working around the clock to assist and care for Ontario’s seniors, especially those in long-term care, during this unprecedented time. A...Continue reading

Number of confirmed cases in Chatham-Kent Last updated: April 13, 2020 at 12:15 pm Confirmed COVID-19 cases* 25 Deaths among confirmed cases 1 Confirmed cases who have recovered 7... Confirmed cases currently hospitalized 0 *Confirmed cases reflect the number of residents who have had a positive test result for COVID-19. Guidance for testing is based on clinical assessment and focuses on prioritization of those at highest risk. Under these testing circumstances, lab-confirmed cases may not accurately reflect levels of infection. See more

Chatham-Kent cases Case Date Patient Transmission Status Count Reported (age, gender) (travel, close contact, community) 25 12 April 50s Female Pending Self-isolation... 24 12 April 70s Female Close contact Self-isolation 23 11 April 60s Female Close contact Self-isolation 22 11 April 40s Male Close contact Self-isolation 21 11 April 60s Male Close contact Self-isolation 20 11 April 50s Male Close contact Self-isolation 19 10 April 40s Male Close contact Self-isolation 18 08 April 20s Female Close contact Self-isolation 17 06 April 60s Female Close contact Self-isolation 16 06 April 60s Female Close contact Self-isolation 15 06 April 60s Male Close contact Self-isolation 14 06 April 60s Female Close contact Self-isolation 13 06 April 30s Male Close contact Self-isolation 12 03 April 70s Male Travel (USA) Resolved 11 03 April 60s Female Pending Self-Isolation 10 03 April 30s Female Pending Self-isolation 9 01 April 20s Female Close contact Self-isolation 8 31 March 40s Male Close contact Resolved 7 31 March 40s Female Close contact Resolved 6 28 March 60s Male Pending Self-isolation 5 28 March 30s Male Travel (USA) Resolved 4 26 March 40s Male Pending Resolved 3 26 March 40s Male Pending Resolved 2 18 March 80s Female Travel (USA) Deceased 1 17 March 50s Male Travel (USA) Resolved See more

Number of confirmed cases in Chatham-Kent Last updated: April 12, 2020 at 12:30 p.m. Confirmed COVID-19 cases* 25 Deaths among confirmed cases 1 Confirmed cases who have recovered 7... Confirmed cases currently hospitalized 0 *Confirmed cases reflect the number of residents who have had a positive test result for COVID-19. Guidance for testing is based on clinical assessment and focuses on prioritization of those at highest risk. Under these testing circumstances, lab-confirmed cases may not accurately reflect levels of infection. See more

Number of confirmed cases in Chatham-Kent Last updated: April 11, 2020 at 12:30pm Confirmed COVID-19 cases* 19 Deaths among confirmed cases 1 Confirmed cases who have recovered 7... Confirmed cases currently hospitalized 0 *Confirmed cases reflect the number of residents who have had a positive test result for COVID-19. Guidance for testing is based on clinical assessment and focuses on prioritization of those at highest risk. Under these testing circumstances, lab-confirmed cases may not accurately reflect levels of infection. See more

Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is reminding the community that its COVID-19 Assessment Centre at 47 Emma Street in Chatham is open over the Easter weekend. The COVID-19 Assessment Centre is open at 9 a.m. and will register the last patient of the day at 4 p.m. If you arrive after 4:00 p.m., please do NOT present to the Emergency Department. Return home to self-isolate and come back to the assessment centre in the morning. CKHA is reiterating additional reminders to the... community to ensure the COVID-19 Assessment Centre can continue to operate as efficiently as possible. Please take note of the following: This is not a walk-in clinic, if you think you have symptoms related to COVID-19 please call your primary care provider, CK Public Health or Telehealth Ontario. They will discuss your symptoms and travel history and can advise if you should attend the assessment centre. If you need to come to the assessment centre, please bring your Health Card with you. This helps staff working at the assessment centre properly identify you. Please bring a list of medications and any other information regarding allergies and past medical issues. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. AND the last patient will be seen at 4:00 p.m. If you arrive after 4:00 p.m., please do NOT present to the Emergency Department. Return home to self-isolate and come back to the assessment centre in the morning. CKHA's COVID-19 Assessment Centre is located at 47 Emma Street, next to the Chatham Site. Please park in the lot adjacent to the building. Free parking is available during hours of operation. Individuals concerned about symptoms that could be caused by COVID-19 can complete a self-assessment provided by the Ministry of Health online at: https://www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus.

Number of confirmed cases in Chatham-Kent Updated: April 10, 2020 at 12:30pm Confirmed COVID-19 cases* 18 Deaths among confirmed cases 1 Confirmed cases who have recovered 4... Confirmed cases currently hospitalized 0 See more

SALVATION ARMY OPEN TO SERVE THOSE WHO NEED THEM COVID-19 s also changed the way the Salvation Army is doing business. Community and Family Services Manager, Allie Matthews, answered a few questions for the Independent about those changes. Can you tell me how people can go about receiving your services with the store closed and why was the store closed? We are open on designated days right now to serve those in need of food. For the next two weeks, we are available Wednesdays... and Thursdays. Clients are welcome to walk in at any time during our business hours. The store is closed because the government announced last week that all non-essential services are being made to close. This includes retail stores. How you and the staff are coping during COVID 19, and what precautions are being taken? We are currently rotating our staff on teams right now to maintain the distancing. We are working closely together as a team, and there is a great sense of partnership. Clients are not making direct contact with the caseworkers. This means that food bags are being pre-packaged and available to those who are in need. Foodland and others are donating money to help with COVID 19, will this money stay local and will it be used for people struggling now? The food being raised from Foodland is most definitely being kept local. We are so thankful for the generosity that Pierre has pulled together. We are able to purchase what Becky is in most need of for the Ridgetown Foodbank. Is there anything you need at this time to help out? At this time, we are very thankful to have a great staff team and a few good volunteers, donations are always welcome during this busy time. We are expecting to see an influx coming soon, especially working families that have never visited before. Anything else you would like everyone to know? The main thing I would like to stress is that we can’t thank the community enough for their support. Whenever there is a need, Ridgetown is always so amazing with their generosity. We couldn’t serve the most vulnerable without everyone’s thoughtfulness during this tough time for everyone. See more

HEALTH PLEX TO TRANSFORM INTO FIELD HOSPITAL Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) has reached an agreement with St. Clair College, HealthPlex, Chatham Campus to turn the facility into the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Field Hospital for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. The agreement provides CKHA with the additional space it needs to accommodate in case there is a surge of patients with COVID-19. Through a phased-in approach over the next week, CKHA will transform the S...t. Clair College HealthPlex into an offsite Field Hospital with the capacity to treat up to 40 low acuity patients in the recovery phase of their treatments, which could include patients recovering from the virus. "We are preparing for a potential influx of patients and creating capacity in Chatham-Kent. This will help address challenges for hospitals across the province," said Lori Marshall, President and CEO, CKHA. "Our hope is that we do not have to move any patients to our field hospital but we are making these preparations for the possible scenario that we receive an influx locally or if we are required to take additional patients from outside our municipality." Local hospitals, with support from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, have already increased capacity within the system. CKHA has currently grown its capacity at its Chatham Site adding an additional 46 beds (4 of which are critical care level); this is in combination with "pausing" of elective surgeries, some clinics and non-urgent services and moving patients who can safely receive appropriate care in other settings such as long term care and home and community care. "In these challenging days, the usual function of our educational facilities takes a back seat to the health and well-being of our community," said St. Clair College President Patti France. "As it turned out, I suppose it is fitting that we had named this athletic facility the 'HealthPlex', because it will certainly assume a medical role now. We are at the disposal of our local healthcare heroes," France added, "If there is anything else that St. Clair can provide in terms of facilities, services or expertise, it is there for the asking." CKHA is also pleased to announce the temporary appointment of Bob Crawford as the Director, Field Hospital Logistics from now through the end of May. "Bob is well known in Chatham-Kent as the former Chief, Fire and Paramedic Services. In addition to this, Bob has extensive experience in Emergency Planning in Canada and internationally. Bob's skills, knowledge and experience will be critical in the planning and set up of the Field Hospital to serve our community," said Lori Marshall.

COME ON IN AND TAKE A LOOK DAYS ARE NOT AN OPTION DURING COVID-19 You can’t do this, and you can do that; it is such a confusing time for everyone, especially for businesses. One business that has seen many restrictions since COVID-19 reared its ugly head is the real estate sector. We asked Mimi O’Rourke proprietor of O’Rourke Real Estate in Ridgetown how she and her staff are coping with all these new restrictions. She responded, I will tell you what I can, although every d...Continue reading

One more case was reported this morning by Chatham-Kent Public Health. This brings our total to 18. 8 April 2020 20s Female Close contact Self-isolation

CK launching community wide drive for personal protective equipment Chatham-Kent is establishing a drop-off station for donations of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for front line health care staff. During a conversation with our health partners, we were told of the need to maximize the amount of PPE, said Mayor Darrin Canniff. We want to ensure that our health care staff have the equipment they need to do their jobs and save lives so we are asking that Chatham-Kent r...esidents who may have these items or owners of businesses who have them and are not deemed essential, pitch in and help. The municipality’s drop off station will open at Thames Campus Arena Wednesday April 15 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Initial plans are to operate the station at that time each Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Mayor Canniff said there is no specific goal in mind for the effort. We know CK residents have always been generous. We don’t know what resources exist in the community but we do know that we need the items at this critical time, he said. The donation procedure uses social distancing. Donors are asked to bring their material inside main front doors of the arena, place the donation on the table located in the ticket area and exit the building. Staff will then take the donation, sort and store it for three days before passing it on to be distributed in the health care system through usual protocols. A staff member MUST receive the donation. Any donations left outside at the building will be discarded due to unknown contamination. Product donated cannot be used or expired and opened boxes or packages will not be accepted. Needed equipment includes: N-95 masks surgical face masks disposable gloves medical goggles face shields hand sanitizer cloth face masks Further details on the equipment needed and how you can help can be found at https://www.chatham-kent.ca//Personal%20Protective%20Equip Both large and small donations are appreciated. The equipment will be inventoried and used in hospitals, long-term care and retirement homes, home care, hospices and other organizations to assist with urgent needs. For further information, please contact the municipality at 519-360-1998.