The Paris Independent for Saturday July 27th, 2024
PARIS DRINKS FEST RELOCATES
Story on pages 5-6
DIVING INTO BRAVE WAVES
The family behind Paris’ first indoor pool. Pages 8-10
Details inside. Pages 18-19
A big congratulations goes out to the Paris Youth Softball Association’s U17 Team for bringing home the Gold medal from the Kitchener-Waterloo OSSTA tournament last weekend Some key accomplishments include Blake earning the MVP of the championship game, Caleb winning the home run derby and Owen winning the Golden Glove Baseball updates on pages 22-23.
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by PYSA
COMMUNITY DIRECTORY
Emergency: 9-1-1
Police Department: 888-310-1122
Fire Department: 519-442-4500
Willet Hospital: 519-442-2251
County of Brant Office: 519-442-6324
Paris Public Library: 519-442-2433
Paris Councillors & Mayor :
Mayor - David Bailey 226-387-2490
Ward 2 - Steve Howes 519-442-4955
Ward 2 - Lukas Oakley 226-216-3037
Ward 3 - John Bell 519-209-2277
Ward 3 - John Peirce 519-442-7134
Administration & Bylaw: 519-442-7268
Paris Customer Service Office 66 Grand River St. N. 519-442-7268
Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Main Services include:
-Accounts Receivable invoice payments
- Blue Boxes and Composters (pre-arrange pick up of composter)
- Brant Transit punch cards purchase and pick up
- Building Permits may be submitted and Building staff consulted
- Calendar pick up (free)
- Commissioner of Oath is by appointment only
- Dog license and tag
- Dog Park membership and key
- Parking ticket payment
- Property Tax payments and inquiries
- Public Works permits may be submitted
- Use the computer to meet with a virtual Planner to ask questions.
- Water testing sample bottles may be picked up. Drop off water testing samples on the last Wednesday of the month before 2 pm at the Burford Customer Service Office
Brant Sports Complex & Other Facility Booking 519-442-1944- Open Monday - Sunday, 8:30 am - 8:00 pm.
Main services include:
- Dog Park membership and key
- Dog license and tag
- Tennis Court membership and key
- Camp registration and recreation program registration
Articles, Events & Story ideas, please submit by email to: stories@theparisindependent.com
STATEMENT
Columnist
Food & Beverage Columnist
Healthy Lifestyle Columnist
Chris Whelan
Casandra Turnbull
Michelle Malvaso
George Le Gresley
Rubyyy Jones
Stephen L.
Jacob Gaudet
Taren White
Heidi Pfleger
Tiffany Martin
Shelley Gaudet
We are an independently owned organization made up of likeminded volunteers from within our community with the main purpose of providing Paris and area with a trustworthy and reliable source of local news. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of everything we publish, we regret any errors that may occur. We limit our liability to that of printing a retraction upon notification of such errors in the next available publication. Our mail and Email addresses are listed below: Publisher / Sales
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
TODAY! THE JIM YOUNG EXPERIENCE –
Saturday, July 27th , 1 pm to 4 pm at the Paris Legion, 70 William St. Full BBQ begins at noon. No cover, everyone invited to the best patio in town!
COUNTRY NIGHTS AT ADDI’S! – Monday, July 29th from 6 pm to 8 pm at Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead. Join Joan Minnery for the jammed packed dance floor of the summer ... OUTDOOR Line Dancing More information available online.
MUSIC IN THE PARK – The George Rose Little Band at Lions Park Paris on Tuesday, August 6th from 6 pm to 8 pm. Stop by the Walter Williams Amphitheatre for a performance by The George Rose Little Band (Jazz). To learn more about The George Rose Little Band visit thegeorgerosebigband.com.
MASONS AND SCOTTISH RITE CAR SHOW
– Sunday, August 4 at the Paris Fairgrounds, from 8 am to 1 pm Information available online
PARIS COIN SHOW – Sunday, August 11 at the Paris Fairgrounds Canada’s best one-day coin and collectables show features more than 50 tables of coins, paper money, tokens, militaria and more with dealers buying, selling and appraising. The show will be open from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and admission is $5, which includes a draw ticket for a gold coin.
Burford Community Centre every Tuesday
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
PARIS DRINKS FEST:
is a celebration of drinks, food, live music, and community in downtown Paris, Ontario The highly anticipated summer event hosts a two-day festival during the weekend of August 16 - 17, 2024 featuring headliners Wintersleep on August 16 and Dwayne Gretzky on August 17. With 25+ food & drink vendors and a full weekend of live music from top Canadian talent. Tickets are limited so buy while supplies last: https://www.tixr.com/groups/noisemakerpresents/events/pa ris-drinks-fest-82801
THE
‘CATS
ROCK PARIS
– At the Paris Legion on Saturday, August 3rd at 7 pm. The BureauCats return to rock Paris Legion! Be prepared to dance the night away! Everyone welcome
BRANT
COUNTY MEN’S
PROBUS CLUB MEETING
-Tuesday August 13, 2024 at 10 am at the Sherwood Restaurant at 799 Colborne Street in Brantford. Our guest speaker will beAngela Berta, marine biologist, who will be
BRANT PRIDE CREATIVITY EVENT
Sunday, August 18th from 2pm to 5 pm at the Burford Library. A gentle afternoon of 2SLGBTQIA+ creativity; playing with the many quieter ways to be creative! There will be stations with accessible activities inside and outside the Library, offering the opportunity to explore: poetry, zines, life drawing, reading and more! Please RSVP so we know to expect you!
– Friday, August 16th at 2pm, hosted by the Paris Museum and Historical Society. Curious to learn more about the history of Paris? #BrantLibrary is collaborating with the Paris Museum and Historical Society for a captivating walking tour of Paris, Ontario. More information available online. discussing whales. New members are always welcome.
TOWN WIDE
YARD SALE – In Princeton on Saturday, August 3. Stop by Etonia United to visit their sale that runs from 8 am to 2 pm. Everyone welcome!
Paris Drinks Fest relocating to Two Rivers Stadium (Syl Apps Community Centre)
By Casandra Turnbull
Paris Drinks Fest is relocating to Two Rivers Stadium for next month’s two-day food, beverage and musical festival
The announcement came this week after Brant County Council approved the relocation to Twin Rivers Stadium, beside the Syl Apps Community Centre. During the council meeting on Tuesday night, Councillors voted 10-1 in
favour of supporting the venue change. Paris Drinks Fest organizers had to apply for a venue change because significant flood damage from recent rainfall impacted their plans to host the popular festival at Lions Park in Paris. Following council’s approval, event organizers had to reapply for a noise exemption as the current approval was restricted to Lion’s Park. It was also noted that event
organizers will be taking multiple steps to ensure they minimize disruption to the surrounding residential areas, including using smaller and more directional speaker systems, enforcing curfew, live monitoring and control of the decibel levels, and positioning the stage and tents to minimize sound leakage.
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COMMUNITY
In a social media post following the announcement, Ward 2 Councillor Lukas Oakley noted that it is the intent of the County to survey residents after the event to assess the success / appropriateness of events like these at Syl Apps in the future.
Paris Drinks Fest takes place August 16 – 17 at Twin Rivers Stadium. The event is now entering its fifth year after two years of inactivity due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The event, which attracts about 3,500 attendees annually, introduces guests to diverse flavours, local brews from Ontario’s finest craft beer, wine and spirits companies, while introducing an exciting line up of musicians
This year’s festival will present 30 craft and regional drink vendors, five food vendors, and nine world-class artists. This will mark the first year the event will be held outside Lion’s Park. Last year, festivalgoers battled through muddy conditions after bad weather left Lions Park in questionable shape In addition to abnormal rain amounts this summer, significant changes to the natural landscape surrounding
Lions Park, because of the subdivision construction on Barker’s Bush, has led to new flood problems when there is a lot of rain. The recent damage cannot be repaired by the festival’s start date.
For more information on this year’s festival follow Paris Drinks Fest online You can reach out by email to cheers@parisdrinks.ca with any questions.
Paris Drinks Fest, pictured to the left and above at Paris’ Lions Park, is moving to the Twin Rivers Stadium beside the Syl Apps Community Centre this year, due to damage to Lions Park follow heavy rains.
Photos taken last year by Michelle Malvaso
Be prepared for more construction on Grand River Street North in the coming months
By Casandra Turnbull
Another reconstruction project on Grand River Street North is about to begin.
The County of Brant put a tender out for contractors to work on intersection improvements at Silver Street and Grand River Street North. The reconstruction of this intersection includes excavation, grading, roadway drainage, granular sub-base and base, curb and gutter, sidewalks and asphalt pavement as well as the replacement of storm drainage
structures, sanitary sewer and watermain. Work is expected to begin shortly and if it runs according to timeline, it should be completed by November 15, 2024. This is the second of several construction projects planned from the Class Environmental Assessment Study for Grand River Street North.
Six contractors bid on the project, and the county accepted the lowest bid from Navacon Construction Inc at a tender price of $996, 229 and council endorsed
that selection during a council meeting on Tuesday.
There will be impacts during construction, according to a council report, however, the contractor will be in charge of traffic control plans and construction phasing plans to reduce the impact. It was noted the contractor must maintain access for pedestrians and emergency services throughout the planned work.
Part of this project includes work for connection of the future Bendemere Road, yet to be constructed. Bendemere Road will pick up where Silver Street ends at the Grand River Street North intersection. Bendemere Road will connect motorists to the newly constructed homes on the land once occupied by the Paris Golf Course. As part of this phase of the project, temporary traffic signal equipment will be installed with permanent equipment flagged as a future extension of this project We will report more on the start of this project, as well as any planned detours, as details become available.
The image to the left shows where Bendemere road (yet to be constructed) will connect to Grand River Street North and Silver Street. Part of that preparation work is scheduled to commence shortly.
Brave Waves dives into exciting new aquatics adventure!
Doors are open and the pool is warm inside Paris’ first-ever indoor swim school
By Casandra Turnbull
One family’s aquatic dream has become a very beneficial reality for the residents of Paris
Brave Waves Swim School was proud to open the doors this month to its brand new, state-ofthe-art indoor swimming pool located off Rest Acres Road. The custom-designed facility offers everyone the opportunity to access year-round lifesaving skills at a school that is quickly becoming known as an industry leader in modernizing swim lessons
During a sit-down interview with the Paris Independent last Sunday, Craig Surette, said it’s been quite the journey from a backyard run school to a state-ofthe-art indoor facility. He and wife Nita Apostoli Surette, along with their two adult children Jessica and Julia, operate the Brave Waves Swim School Craig recalled how it all began in 2011 With a backyard pool and thirst for entrepreneurship, the Surette sisters - Jessica and Julia - started this Brave Waves journey with a modest goal of making some extra money over the summer. The business expanded steadily year after year and by 2020, the family felt it was either time to shut it all down or take it to the next level Sensing they could
The Brave Waves Swim School is a family run business that shares a unified goal of helping families raise children who are resilient in the water. The Surette family – Craig, Jessica, Julia and Nita, are the friendly faces behind the school and its new indoor facility off Rest Acres Road in Paris.
Photos by Casandra Turnbull
take things to new heights they partnered with Five Oaks and brought their unique programming to a larger outdoor facility to meet their growing cliental demand Craig called that partnership nothing short of fantastic
“There are not enough good and kind words to describe their generosity and support. They knew we were in need (of a pool), and in turn we brought (about) 1,000 families to their facility each summer and gave their camps and services visibility. We helped each other out tremendously,” said Craig of that three-year partnership that really convinced the Surettes that they were on the right path.
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COMMUNITY
Poolside i-Pads power their proprietary swimmer-evaluations allowing instructors to constantly monitor and update a swimmer’s progress, which is connected to an App so families can monitor that real time progress. Pictured above are instructors Jonah Finucan, Madelynne Gruenwald and Ethan Firth. To the right is Isla working on proper form with instructor Daria.
It was during the early pandemic months that Jessica and Julia attended a conference in Arizona hosted by the USA Swim School They networked with industry leaders, were introduced to the Canadian Swim School Alliance, investigated various program modules, and had some productive conversations that led to a lifechanging decision to take a dive into the unknown and invest in a privately-owned, indoor facility. It was a big decision for Jessica and Julia, who were both emersed in fulltime post secondary school programs at the time. Their pact to shift gears and make Brave Waves their fulltime focus and primary careers was just the beginning of a huge commitment that was wholeheartedly supported by their family Their grandparents Ann Apostoli and Gary and Sandy Surette, and their parents
Craig Surette and Nita Apostoli Surette, as well as countless other relatives and close friends, invested in the idea both financially and emotionally With everyone on board, it was time to take the next step and find that forever home.
The Surettes signed an ironclad longterm lease with Vicano Construction Ltd, sealing the deal for the facility’s new home in the Arlington Commons Plaza off Rest Acres Road. They liked the space and the proximity to the highway, making it an easy commute for out-of-town cliental They assembled the project dream team consisting of Paulsan Construction, Acapulco Pools and Alex Rebanks Architects, and set about the overwhelming task of finetuning every detail and bringing their vision to life over the course of about 12 months. Overall, the project hummed along according to plan, but
not without a little concern and some scary moments as they grasped the reality and magnitude of a project this size It was beyond anything they’d ever tackled before but at the same time it brought the close-knit family even closer together as they rallied behind their passionate commitment to water safety.
Contractors on the project team, representing a multitude of trades, bonded throughout the construction period. So much so, today their kids reap the benefits of their hard work, learning to swim in the pool their parents helped build and that, said Craig, is very neat and indictive of the project coming full circle. With a larger facility and a mounting necessity for swim lessons in the community, Brave Waves Swim School is growing to meet the community need.
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COMMUNITY
There are 60 part-time instructors who teach 1,350 swimmers weekly in the 10mx20m heated pool. Parents watch from the climate-controlled parent viewing area that boasts a direct view of the pool through floor to ceiling windows. Sound suppression panels hang above the pool area to mitigate noise levels and enables the school to offer programming to sensory sensitive swimmers. A modernized chair lifts enable staff to lower swimmers with disabilities in and out of the pool This past month they were able to open their pool to both a paraplegic and a deaf swimmer, showcasing their strong desire to offer lessons - and a safe facility - to individuals of all abilities.
Brave Waves Swim School stands out from other swim schools in its simple approach to programming Recognizing today’s families are busy and, on the go, the school allows caregivers to pick the day and time of week that fits their busy life, and that time remains yours forever, until you opt out. They offer a perpetual enrollment basis, meaning, your child’s spot in class is yours on-going with your current monthly tuition You can opt out at any time and are not stuck in a season long commitment. What’s even better is your child can continuously level up based on a timeline that fits their skill level, not a timeline determined by a season or class you selected during registration
Poolside i-Pads power their proprietary swimmerevaluations allowing instructors to constantly monitor and update a swimmer’s progress When the evaluation shows the student is ready to move up, they advance right away to continue to build on their momentum and progression. Immediate positive reinforcement does wonders for a swimmer confidence, which in turn only heightens their ability in the pool.
And those progress updates are connected to a Brave Waves Swim app updated in real time giving parents and caregivers precise detail and feedback on how their child is doing in the pool. This approach is motivational for the swimmer and provides super value for parents, said Craig The school also uses brand new i-Pads in the lobby so families can check into classes electronically, reducing any line ups at the start of each new class. It’s a wellorganized system that keeps families moving in and out of the facility all day long.
As the school continues to grow, so will its philosophy for philanthropy Brave Waves contributes annually to local charities - Lansdowne Children’s Centre, the Rotary Club, the Arnold Anderson Sports Fund, the McMaster Children’s Hospital, the Brant County SPCA and Autism Dog Services among others. The Brave Waves family is very passionate about community building and giving back
Thirteen years ago, as the Surettes welcomed the first set of swimmers to their backyard oasis, no one knew what kind of passion it would ignite. “I don’t have the words to explain it – unthinkable, unimaginable,” said Craig.” The dream is now a reality. How lucky am I? I get to help my daughters, shoulder-to-shoulder with my wife We get to see the faces of smiling kids every day and we watch amazing leaders (instructors) on their journey of learning and growth.”
With the doors open and programs expanding, Craig is sure more than ever that as he retires from the corporate world, his new career awaits him poolside at Brave Waves Swim School.
“I will be taking the occasional shift at the pool - after I’m recertified,” he laughs.
If you’re interested in learning more about Brave Waves Swim School programs, visit them online here The school is also looking for a permanent part-time and a permanent full-time swim instructor, and Facilities Manager and Aquatics Director to join their leadership team. If you’re interested, email Craig at craig@bravewavesswim com
Young Riley practices technique with instructor Jonah during a swim lesson last Sunday at Paris’ new indoor swim pool privately owned and operated by Brave Waves Swim School.
Non-fatal drowning disproportionally affects children in Ontario
Learn to protect your family during National Drowning Prevention Week
MEDIA RELEASE - Toronto, ON
– July 21, 2024: For every drowning death in Ontario, there are nearly four non-fatal drownings serious enough to require an emergency department visit and children aged 0–19 are at the highest risk. During the years 2012–2021, 2,541 children attended an emergency department and 503 were hospitalized due to non-fatal drowning
To protect our children, the Lifesaving Society is calling on families to prevent tragedy by becoming Water Smart®. The Society’s annual National Drowning Prevention Week (NDPW) runs from July 21 to 27. This year’s campaign focuses on educating Ontarians about the common risk factors for non-fatal drownings and provides simple, actionable steps to keep kids safe.
What is a non-fatal drowning?
Non-fatal drowning happens when a person survives a drowning incident. It is a serious but preventable cause of injury that can lead to lifelong disability.
Stephanie Bakalar, Corporate Communications Manager for Lifesaving Society Ontario, wants parents to understand what non-fatal drowning looks like so they can act accordingly:
“At its mildest level you might see your child coughing. As the impairment becomes more severe,
your child may have sustained difficulty breathing and be disoriented or confused. In the most severe form of non-fatal drowning, your child could be unconscious or non-breathing and require resuscitation.”
“Parents should react to non-fatal drowning right away, as even mild cases can cause future issues,” stresses Bakalar. “Anyone who experiences involuntary, distressed coughing, or difficulty breathing as a result of a non-fatal drowning should be seen by a physician ”
The Lifesaving Society is a fullservice provider of programs, products and services designed to prevent drowning. We save lives and prevent water-related injury through our training programs, Water Smart public education, drowning research, aquatic safety management and lifesaving sport.
The Lifesaving Society is a leader and partner in the delivery of water safety education throughout Canada and around the world
The facts on non-fatal
drowning in Ontario
The Ontario Non-Fatal Drowning Report, 2023 shows that non-fatal drowning impacts children at higher rates than any other age group. Non-fatal drowning incidents among children most commonly occurred in pools followed by during boating
Keeping kids safe
“Drowning prevention doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require parents to educate themselves,” says Bakalar, who recommends parents visit watersmartparents.ca to learn how to keep their kids safe in any season, during any activity and in any location.
“It’s simple steps like wearing a properly fitted lifejacket, actively supervising your children and staying within arms’ reach at all times that will make a big difference.”
The Lifesaving Society also recommends:
*Learning to swim: both children and adults should take swimming lessons.
*Swimming in lifeguard-supervised settings, where 1% of drowning deaths occur.
*Ensuring you can meet the Swim to Survive® standard (roll into deep water, tread water for 1 minute, swim 50 metres)
*Wearing lifejackets while boating – everyone, regardless of age or swimming ability.
*Taking Lifesaving Society courses like Bronze Medallion and First Aid to learn how to help yourself and others
County of Brant seeks feedback on the development of new Climate Action Plan
MEDIA RELEASE - County of Brant, ON – The County of Brant is excited to announce the development of its comprehensive Climate Action Plan, a corporate strategic initiative aimed at addressing the challenges posed by climate change. This plan will guide the County toward a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future by supporting smart actions that meet the needs and priorities of the diverse community.
“In the County of Brant, we are committed to taking proactive steps to protect our environment and ensure a sustainable future for our residents,” said County of Brant Mayor David Bailey. “The development of this Climate Action Plan is a testament to our dedication to environmental stewardship and community wellbeing."
Climate change poses significant challenges for the County of Brant, affecting both the natural environment and the community's quality of life. In the County, we see the effects of climate change in many ways: heavier and unpredictable rainfall, more extreme weather, droughts, heatwaves, and flooding. Rising temperatures can disrupt agriculture greatly impacting our local farmers damage infrastructure and increase the risk of flooding. These changes threaten local ecosystems, water supplies, and biodiversity.
Developing a Climate Action Plan will help the County build on climate action successes to dateincluding tree planting initiatives, investing in renewables, preparing for extreme weather emergencies, and more.
"Implementing a robust Climate Action Plan will not only help mitigate the impacts of climate change but also bring substantial benefits to our community,” said County of Brant Director of Corporate Strategy, Adam Crozier. “These include improved public health, economic opportunities, and enhanced quality of life
Our response to climate change is not just about reducing emissions; it’s about building a resilient and thriving community for generations to come."
Continuing to take action against climate challenges through the Climate Action Plan, can bring numerous benefits to the County of Brant and its residents, such as, improving air quality and public health by reducing greenhouse gas emissions; enhancing resilience and preparedness for extreme weather events to protect infrastructure and reduce recovery costs; promoting sustainable agriculture to ensure food security and support local farmers; and protecting natural resources and biodiversity to maintain ecosystem services vital for clean water, fertile soil, and recreational opportunities. The County of Brant is inviting all residents and community partners to participate in the development of the Climate Action Plan. Visit the Engage Brant website at to learn more about the project and share feedback through an online survey, provide comments and questions about the plan, or attend one of the popup events. Paper copies of the survey are also available at www.EngageBrant.ca/ClimateActinoPlan County of Brant Customer Service Offices and for those that prefer, the survey can also be completed over the phone by calling 1.855.44BRANT (1 855 442 7268) until Friday, August 30 at 4:30 pm
Small Town Community Support: Paris Grocers Go Above and Beyond for the Paris Little Free Pantry
By Paris Independent Staff
About 6 months ago Kathy Vankonynenburg, a dedicated member of the Friends of the Little Free Pantry group, embarked on a mission to expand the reach of their charitable efforts. Armed with determination and a vision, she set out to enlist the support of local businesses. Her first stop was Jay's at No Frills grocery store on Dundas Street.
With great hope, Kathy approached Jay, the store owner, seeking permission to place a donation bin for the Little Free Pantry at the store's exit. To her delight, Jay embraced the idea wholeheartedly, expressing his willingness to contribute to the cause Not only did he allow the bin, but Jay also went above and beyond by personally delivering donations
Jay at No Frills is a Friend to the Little Free Pantry. Not only does he stalk the pantry’s shelves when supply is low and demand is high, but he also makes special donations during the holiday season. Pictured above, Jay donated 10 full Thanksgiving dinners last year, right down to the whipped cream!
Photo shared by Susan Lyn on the Friends of the Little Free Pantry Facebook page
to the pantry and regularly restocking its shelves. Despite owning the store for just over a year, Jay's dedication to his community proved to be nothing short of remarkable.
The impact of Jay's generosity extended far beyond the pantry's shelves. During special occasions like Christmas and Easter, he selflessly provided meals for ten struggling families, bringing joy and relief to those in need. Kathy, deeply moved by Jay's unwavering support, cherished a heartfelt desire to publicly acknowledge his contributions She hoped the Paris Independent newspaper would give Jay the recognition he deserved, a chance to shine as a beacon of compassion in their community But the tale doesn't end there. Several months later, Kathy set her sights on another local grocery store, Sobeys in the North End of town She approached the store manager, Jackee, with a similar request. To Kathy's delight, Jackee, too, eagerly embraced the opportunity to make a difference. She not only installed a donation bin in her store but also contributed to the Paris Little Free Pantry from her own inventory. The community was indeed blessed with remarkable businesspeople like Jay and Jackee, whose compassion resonated through their actions.
Today, at the exit of both Jay's No Frills and Sobeys, the Little Free Pantry's bins stand as symbols of hope and unity. Located in front of the Paris Optimist Clubhouse behind the Syl Apps Arena on Elm Street, the Little Free Pantry’s containers hold a world of possibilities. The concept behind the Little Free Pantry is simple yet profound a safe space where anyone can leave a donation of food, and those in need can access it without judgment or embarrassment.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
It transcends religious affiliations and eliminates the need for registration or divulging personal information Open 24/7, the pantry's shelves remain stocked as long as the community's generosity persists.
The involvement of the two main local grocers, No Frills and Sobeys, has revolutionized the Little Free Pantry's ability to support those facing food insecurity between visits to the local food bank Their commitment and contributions have improved countless lives, serving as a lifeline for individuals and families in need.
Behind the scenes, the Friends of the Little Free Pantry Facebook group is a great support tool for Kathy and other like-minded volunteers in managing the pantry's needs. They work together to keep it clean, organized, and ready to serve the community. This dedicated group of individuals also offer assistance to anyone with questions, donations, or concerns, ensuring that the pantry remains a beacon of hope for all.
The Paris Little Free Pantry invites everyone to join their noble cause by dropping off donations or becoming a part of their supportive Facebook community.
Together, the residents of Paris continue to strengthen the bonds of compassion, proving that even in a small town, acts of kindness have the power to transform lives and nourish both the body and soul
Tier 1 Basic Subscriber $4.00/ month: Laura, Nancy Chipman, Barbara Plumstead, Heidi Wright, VMM, Elaine Tully, Don, Dan,ABK, Harry Nixon, Ian Robertson, Donna Smith, John Gillies, Madeline, Sarah Louch, Ann Hannah, Jack MacPherson, Sue, Linda M Jones, Marlene, Christa Potter, Jill Palmer, Dianne 1, Dianne 2, Gloria, Tina, Tom Beacock, and Betty Hall
Tier 2 Basic Subscriber Plus $7.50/month: Brave Waves Swim School, Carolann Urquhart, Tim Risebrough, and Shawna Sharp,
Tier 3 Bronze Sponsor $14.50/month: Patrick Bernard Brooker
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
All letters must be signed by the writer and are subject to editing for length and clarity. The opinions expressed in the letter are those of the writer, and not necessarily those of the Paris Independent. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, or completeness of this information. If you have an opinion to share, email your letters to stories@theparisindependent.com
COMMUNITY
Thank-you Mr. Bell! County and City celebrate 150th anniversary of the telephone invention
:
COUNTY OF BRANT NEWS RELEASE
- The County of Brant is pleased to share several activities taking place in Brant on Sunday, July 28th in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the invention of the telephone byAlexander Graham Bell A Telephone Trail Trek Challenge will be taking place on Sunday, July 28 at 9:00 am. Participants are invited to walk, run or bike the distance of the world's first long-distance telephone call made from Brantford to Paris. The 18-kilometre trek will begin at Brantford’s Harmony Square and will take participants along the picturesque trails ending at the Paris Museum and Historical Society at the Syl Apps Community Centre, 51 William Street. A free shuttle will be available from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm to take participants from the rest stops to the Paris Museum and back to Harmony Square. This program is being presented by the City of Brantford, the Bell Homestead National Historic Site and the Paris Museum and Historical Society. Visit the Paris Museum and Historical Society at 11:00 am for museum tours and a display in the lobby at the Syl Apps Community Centre. Volunteers will be in period costumes and tours will be offered throughout the day
The Downtown Paris Business Association is also celebrating with the following activities on Sunday, July 28:
•11:00 am: Join us for the unveiling of new plaque celebrating the first long distance call made from Brantford to Paris, with Mayor David Bailey, at the River's Edge at the Arlington / Dominion Telegraph Events Centre, 97 Grand River St N.
•11:00 am - 3:00 pm: Live music will be taking place at Cobblestone Commons in Downtown Paris (beside 2 Rivers Restaurant).
•Contests will also be taking place. Walk around Downtown Paris and find the letters to spell TELEPHONE to win. Visit Downtown Paris on Instagram and Facebook for more details.
The County of Brant is also excited to share that a special concert from the Telephone City Musical City. The Musical Society Concert Band will also be taking place on Sunday, July 28 from 12 30 pm - 2 30 pm at the Walter Williams Amphitheatre in Lions Park Paris.
The City of Brantford will be hosting several events over the weekend including Music in the Square on Friday, July 26 and 150 Years at the Homestead on Saturday, July 27. More information can be found online at the City of Brantford Special Events website.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to making this celebration possible!
Celebrating 150 Years of the Telephone: Paris, Ontario's Key Role
The town of Paris, Ontario, holds a distinguished place in the history of telecommunications, particularly as we commemorate the 150th anniversary of the invention of the telephone. While many are familiar with Paris as the location of the world's first "long-distance" phone call on August 10, 1876, the deeper ties between this town and the evolution of the telephone reveal a rich tapestry of innovation and community involvement.
Alexander Graham Bell, born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1847, was not just a scientist but a product of his environment and relationships. Influenced by his father's encouragement of experimentation and his mother's lessons in curiosity, Bell's formative years were marked by a penchant for hands-on exploration and problemsolving. Struggling with tuberculosis, Bell's family heeded medical advice and sought refuge in the salubrious climate of Canada, leading them to the hospitality of the Reverend Thomas Henderson House in Paris
The Reverend Thomas Peter Henderson, a Baptist Minister and
In Paris, Ont. Alexander Graham Bell received the world’s first successful long distance telephone call from Brantford, in Robert White’s Boot and Shoe store and Telegraph office on August 10, 1876. The eight-mile line was extended 136 miles to make use of a battery supply in Toronto (Painting by: J C H Forster)
School Inspector, not only offered shelter to the Bell family but also became intricately involved in the burgeoning telephone industry in Canada. As a close friend of the Bells, Henderson later assumed the role of the first General Agent for the telephone business in Canada, solidifying the connection between the Bell family and the town of Paris Bell's friendship with Charles Whitlaw further anchored his ties to Paris, setting the stage for his long-distance telephone experiments between Brantford and Paris. Mr. Whitlaw would be among the first to own a telephone.
Following Bell's groundbreaking long-distance call, Paris swiftly emerged as a pivotal location for a Bell Telephone Company exchange. By 1880, the Bell company had acquired the Dominion Telegraph Company, expanding its network and services across the region. George Stanton's appointment as the first Paris agent marked a significant milestone in establishing the town as a telecommunication hub, with the company boasting over 2000 miles of wire and serving around 2000 customers by December 1880.
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LOCAL HISTORY
The years that ensued witnessed remarkable advancements in Paris's telephone services. From the installation of a switchboard in a local bookstore to the construction of long-distance lines connecting Paris with neighbouring towns like Brantford, Hamilton, Galt and Woodstock, the town embraced technological progress with fervor Notable milestones, such as the transition from magneto to common battery systems in 1912, underscored Paris' commitment to enhancing communication infrastructure and user experience.
Despite facing setbacks like the devastating fire of 1900, which
destroyed the Bell office and equipment, Paris persevered in rebuilding its telecommunication network. The town's resilience shone through as it not only reinstated the telephone exchange in temporary quarters but also upgraded to a purpose-built facility, signaling a new era of connectivity and convenience for its residents
By 1956, Paris had burgeoned into a thriving community, marked by a growing population and flourishing industrial landscape. The surge in telephone subscriptions, exceeding 2,400 by that year, mirrored the town's evolution into a
where
innovation and connectivity converged to shape everyday life.
The legacy of Paris in the realm of telecommunication not only commemorates its pivotal role in the telephone's history but also serves as a testament to the enduring impact of local connections, visionary individuals, and community-driven progress. As we mark 150 years since the birth of the telephone, Paris shines brightly as a symbol of creativity and teamwork, demonstrating how even the smallest community's efforts can echo through the exciting journey of technological advancement.
communication epicenter
Paris, Ontario operating staff in 1909. At No.1 Standard magneto switchboard, from left to right: Miss Bessie Birley, Mr. L.L. Belyea, Mrs. Agnes Emerson, Miss Millie Arnold, Miss Maud McCall, Mr. C.B. Barker (Manager) and Miss Vera Elkington.
Paris FC Teams bring home five medals from tournaments and festivals last weekend
The U13 Girls (top right) and U11 Boys Black (top left) teams, representing Paris FC, came home as Champions from the Clarence Classic in Clarence, NY last weekend. The U11 Boys were undefeated throughout the tournament with 14 goals for and 2 against and won their championship game 6-1! The U13 girls started off with a tie against Peterborough City, but buckled down and went the rest of the tournament undefeated, with a 2-1 win over a very strong Orchard Park Gems Elite in the final match! The U15 girls (pictured below) were also at the Clarence Classic where they worked hard to secure silver medals in their division! Photos provided by Paris FC
U18 Girls are finalists at tournament in Georgetown; creating memories in last season together
U18 Paris FC Girls were finalists in Georgetown at the Eustace Collins Memorial Tournament last weekend. This is their last summer together as many are headed to university in the fall, so it was an amazing weekend for them, said Melissa Ostrowercha of the Paris FC.
Photos by Melissa Ostrowercha
U15 Paris FC Boys dominate at Kingston Tournament
The U15 Boys were in Kingston last weekend for the third year in a row to reclaim the trophy they won previously in 2022 while competing in the U13 division. They lost in the semis last year as a U14 team. They brought their best game forward and were undefeated through the whole tournament, with three clean sheets, completely dominating their competition. Unfortu nately, in the final, they didn't capitalize on a couple of late chances, and ended up with silver medals in a 1-0 loss to Oakville.
Photos by Melissa Ostrowercha
The Olympic Games are on – catch all the action!
SPORTS with George Le Gresley
So, what did you think of the opening ceremony last night? You may have seen commercials on American television where George Lucas claims that the ceremony will be spectacular or the rumours of Celine Dion might be participating. Was the ceremony too long? The anticipation is over so please share your thoughts with us –
stories@theparisindependent co m Back to the action Here’s what you can expect this week!
July 30th:
-Triathlon Men’s Canada has two entrants, who aren’t likely to reach Simon Whitfield’s Gold and Silver medal achievements.
-Men’s Tennis: watch for Canada’s entrants in this event!
-Men’s Basketball Canada’s Dream Team faces the
Australian side
-Women’s Canoe Slalom
-Men’s BMX Freestyle A new event this year
-Women’s 3 on 3 Basketball (another new event) where the world’s 5th ranked Team Canada faces Team Australia
-Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Team Final
-Men’s Volleyball Canada opens against home team France
Continued on page 21
PARIS PREDATORS’ SCOREBOARD
July 17 – U13 PFD Robinson (Paris) wins 10-8 against U13 Buitenwerf (Paris)
July 18 –U13 Buitenwerf (Paris) ties St. George Spartans 14-14
July 18 – U13 PFD Robinson (Paris) loses 13-4 to Cambridge Cougars
July 18 – U9/U11 Team 6 ties Team 3 (Paris HL)
July 18 – U9/U11 Team 1 wins 5-7 against Team 5 (Paris HL)
July 18 – U9/U11 Team 2 wins 20-5 against Team 4 (Paris HL)
July 18 –U15 Munro (Paris) loses 14-6 against Burgessville Orioles
July 19 –U15 Munro (Paris) loses 11-5 against Lynden
July 20 –U11 Turnbull (Paris) loses 18-12 against Sweaburg
July 22 –U13 Buitenwerf (Paris) loses 13-8 against the Burford Panthers
July 22 – U13 PFD Robinson (Paris) loses 16-6 to Ayr Jr Vics
Recreation,
July 31
-Women’s Triathlon
-Swimming begins today and Canada is looking forward to seeing if Penny Olesiak can bring home medals in the 4 events she will be competing in
-Women’s Water Polo Canada faces China in an event that literally on the surface looks easy, but below the surface, skills like treading water while being mauled takes place (not so easy, eh?).
-Women’s 3 on 3 Basketball Canada faces China
-Men’s Beach Volleyball, with the Eiffel Tower in the background, Canada faces Brazil
-Women’s Beach Volleyball Canada faces the Swiss side
August 1
-Men’s Golf opens today and the last time Canada medaled was in 1904. This year Corey Connors and Nick Taylor can medal.
-Women’s 200m Race Walk opens the “Athletics” series of this year’s games
-Women’s 3 on 3 Basketball Canada faces Germany -Rowing
-Women’s Basketball Canada opens against Australia and will be bolstered with four WNBA players. Kia Nurse, Laeticia Amihere, Bridget Carleton and Aaliyah Edwards.
-Boxing, Table Tennis, Artistic Gymnastics and Badminton continue
-Women’s 3 on 3 Basketball Canada faces home country France
August 2
-Track and Field and Trampoline Gymnastics begin today, and Badminton, Handball, Shooting, Archery, Rowing, Swimming, Sailing, Fencing, Archery, Judo, and Table Tennis continue
-Men’s Decathlon opens today and London Ontario’s Damian Warner is the reigning Olympic Champion and 4time world medalist is the favourite
-Men’s Basketball Canada faces Spain
-Women’s 3 on 3 Basketball Canada faces the USA side and later on Spain
August 3
-Judo, Badminton, Golf, Handball, Shooting, Archery, Rowing, Equestrian, Field Hockey, Water Polo, Rowing Swimming, Sailing, Gymnastics, Archery and Track and Field Continue
-Women’s 3 on 3 Basketball Canada faces Azerbaijan
Next week we’ll talk about Canada’s exciting Track and Field team and feature the schedule beyond August 3. Tune in for more!
U5 and U7 baseball season wraps up with traditional year-end fun Hit, Run and Catch night
By George Le Gresley
With the stands full of players’ families, the Paris Youth Softball Association held the season ending hit, run and catch fun night last Friday, July 19th. Mark Robinson, the league’s vice president, gives a lot of the
season’s credit to the volunteer coaches who show up weekly.
Being a coach, from my own experience, can sometimes be a challenging endeavor, but the rewards you get from seeing the improvement in the players’ skills and the fun that the players
experiences is well worth it And funny enough, the kids you have coached will remember you, as do some of the players I coached twenty years ago. So, to all the PYSA volunteers.
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Pictured above is the U5 teams at last weekend’s year end fun night. This league introduces the kids to the fundamentals of the game, hitting, catching and base running. The league’s vice president Mark Robinson said the season is successful because of the volunteer coaches who put time into showing the kids the love of the game. This year’s U5 coaches included Ilyas Zylstra, Matt Gallagher, Nicole Forbes, James Ayres, Brady Curtis and Brian Winchester. Thank-you for your commitment and a great summer of baseball.
Photos by George Le Gresley
SPORTS
During my visit to the diamond last Friday, I had the chance to speak with some of these exciting, rising stars. Six-year-old Adalynn Clayton, a future Grade 1 student at Paris Central School, had a great season and really loved the opportunity to run the bases so often. Four-year-old Connor Gallagher tells me he is proud of his hitting and also enjoys time spent running the bases Overall, every player had smiles on their faces, which is surely the goal of all the volunteers in the dugouts and behind the scenes
There were three events held for the under 5 group.
1. The Home Run Derby, won by Team 4’s
Sawyer Vanmaanen.
2. Fastest Feet won by Team 1’s Quinn Lehman.
3. The Golden Glove again won by Quinn Lehman.
There were three events held for the under 7 group
1. The Home Run Derby, won by Nolan Ferren from Team 3
2. Fastest Feet, won by Leo Baldin Team 1
3. Golden Glove, won by Cole Shearim Team 1
If you ask the kids who played in the U5 and U7 league, running the bases was an all-time favourite for many this season. Pictured above is the U7 teams in a group photo taken last weekend. Special thank-you goes out to all the U7 coaches this season: Chris Shearim, Matt Peirce, Jim Anderson, Alex Stewart, Brady Curtis and Becky Fletcher. Thank-you for your dedication and creating great memories for all the players.
Photos by Geroge Le Gresley
Free public swim today!
Join the County of Brant for a FREE public swim, sponsored by Mesh Aesthetics & Medical Wellness, in celebration of National Drowning Prevention Week! The swim takes place today, Saturday, July 27 from 12:30 - 3:30 pm at the Paris Community Pool (80 Laurel Street, Paris) All ages welcome. To learn more about Splash Pads and the Paris Community Pool visit brant.ca/Aquatics
County of Brant Cheers for Team Canada!
From the picturesque streets of Paris, Ontario to the bustling streets of Paris, France the spirit of Canadian pride resonates as the 2024 Summer Olympic Games commence in the City of Light. As our athletes prepare to showcase their talents on the world stage, let's delve into some fascinating facts that add to the excitement surrounding Team Canada's journey at Paris 2024.
Canadian Olympics Fun Facts:
**Athlete Count:** Team Canada is set to send a formidable contingent of 337 athletes to compete in various disciplines at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
**Age Diversity:** Among these athletes, the age spectrum is truly remarkable. The youngest contender representing Canada at the 2024 Olympics is the talented skateboarder Fay De Fazio Ebert, aged just 14 On the other end of the spectrum, equestrian Jill Irving, at the age of 61, exemplifies experience and perseverance.
**Family Bonds:** Team Canada's presence at Paris 2024 will be marked by familial connections, with five sets of siblings forming a unique and heartwarming aspect of the team dynamic.
**Hosting History:** Canada boasts a rich history of hosting the Olympic Games, having welcomed the world on three distinct occasions The vibrant city of Montreal
played host to the Summer Olympics in 1976, while the snowy landscapes of Calgary embraced the Winter Olympics in 1988 Vancouver, with its stunning backdrop, set the stage for the Winter Olympics in 2010.
**Previous Success:** At the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games, Team Canada showcased outstanding performances and clinched an impressive total of 24 medals, underscoring the nation's proficiency and passion for sports on a global scale.
As the sights and sounds of Paris come alive with the spirit of competition and camaraderie, the County of Brant stands united in cheering for our talented Canadian athletes. With unwavering support and boundless enthusiasm, we wish Team Canada the best of luck at the 2024 Summer Olympics. Go Team Canada!
ASTROLOGY
Aries: March 21 - April 19 (Fire) –Your professional life should be balanced with your private life to promote harmony and success. This is an excellent time for making new friends and improving relationships with existing friends, partners, and family A strong woman may have a significant influence on your life, especially in terms of assistance and advice
Taurus: April 20 - May 20 (Earth)Your quick instincts and fighting spirit can be used to stand up for yourself or defend your home and family This is an excellent time to improve sexual relations with your partner or to find a new playmate Increased charisma and sex appeal will make you more popular in social situations
Gemini: May 21 - June 20 (Air)You may struggle to understand your feelings and to share them. It can cause irritation and disagreements because of confusion or polarized thinking So, extra care is needed with sensitive discussion topics and negotiations A more productive exercise would be to spend some quiet time reflecting or chatting with a mentor about some of your inner feelings holding you back
Cancer: June 21 – July 22 22 (Water) - A competitive yet cooperative attitude makes winning easy Success and popularity result from your warm, charismatic and daring energy This is a perfect time for dating, improving relationships, and standing up for yourself and your loved ones You will have the respect and support of almost everyone because they will appreciate your drive, initiative, and courage.
Leo: July 23 - August 22 (Fire) –This is an excellent time to ask for favors, borrow money, and make presentations Finding a business partner, financial advisor, or other professional to assist you is also favored
Virgo: August 23 - September 22 (Earth) – You will understand ideas that you had grasped only superficially before. This is a perfect time to study hidden and secret things such as astrology and psychology You could meet someone who significantly affects your way of thinking This is a great time to learn and teach
Libra: September 23 - October 22 (Air) - Emotional stress can make you feel anxious, neurotic and insecure. But you can be very successful in your personal and professional life by living in this highly energized state You may also feel the urge or longing to achieve an imagined future goal Restricting yourself to a single goal will make it easier to make the right choices
Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 (Water) – You should feel more at ease when socializing and be comfortable in the spotlight This is also an excellent time to fight for a worthy cause, stand up for your rights or defend loved ones You have the courage and confidence to be more assertive and share your feelings
Aquarius: January 20 –February 18 (Air) – This week brings you the courage and initiative to make the first move and take the lead You will intuitively know what you want and how to get it, especially in relationships. This is the right time to ask someone out on a date and to act on your instincts You can be direct and assertive without looking bossy or rude and will be admired for your honesty and sincerity.
Pisces: February 19 - March 20 (Water) – Your powerful intellect and influence over others could be applied to sales work, debating, bargaining, or negotiating favorable deals in business or major purchases like houses and cars You could also meet someone who deeply affects you through some idea or plan, or it could be the beginning of a karmic friendship or successful partnership
Sagittarius: November 22December 21 (Fire) – All social activities are favored, and even interactions with bosses and others at work should go well. Your calming influence on the people around you brings admiration and popularity This is an excellent time for dating or spending quality time with a loved one
Capricorn: December 22 - January 19 (Earth) – You will pay more attention to your home, feelings, emotions, and close relationships, especially with women. These more profound areas of life come to the surface so that problems that have been simmering can be resolved positively This is a time of emotional balance, not irrationally emotional, and not too cold and calculating
Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford For Saturday, July 27, 2024
Deadpool & Wolverine
Standard 12:00p.m. 12:30p.m. 3:10p.m.
3:40p.m. 6:20p.m. 9:30p.m.
3D 6:50p.m. 10:00p.m.
Twisters
Standard 11:45a.m. 12:15p.m. 3:00p.m.
3:30p.m. 6:00p.m. 6:30p.m. 9:15p.m. 9:45p.m.
Despicable Me 4
Standard 11:40a.m. 2:10p.m. 4:40p.m.
3D 7:10p.m. 9:40p.m.
Inside Out 2
Standard 11:50a.m. 2:20p.m. 4:50p.m.
7:20p.m. 9:50p.m.
Longlegs
Standard 1:30p.m. 4:00p.m. 6:40p.m. 9:20p.m.
Bad Newz
Standard 11:30a.m. 2:50p.m. 6:10p.m. 9:25p.m.
The Angry Birds Movie 2 Standard 11:00a.m.
THE OXFORD DRIVE-IN - GATES OPEN AT 8pm MOVIES START AT DUSK
