The Paris Independent for Saturday June 22nd, 2024

Photo by Chris Whelan

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

Publisher / Sales

Sports Reporter

Entertainment Reporter Jr. Events Reporter

Financial Columnist

Arts & Culture Columnist

Healthy Lifestyle 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

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

TODAY! NEIGHBOURHOOD WIDE YARD

SALE! – Saturday, June 22, 8 am to 12 pm, rain or shine! Hosted by Realtor Wendy Eveleigh, proudly support the Kiwanis Club. Participating Streets: Tom Brown, Lorne Card, Vic Chambers, McGovern, Baker, Lydia, Edgar, Parkhill, Masters and Whiting.

TODAY! BBQ AT THE PARIS LEGION –Saturday, June 22 from 12 pm to 6 pm, located at 70 William St in Paris. Everyone is welcome!

TODAY! JUMP FOR JOY! Saturday, June 22 from 12 pm to 4 pm at the Canadian Tire parking lot. This Fundraiser and Community event is in support of the Jump Start program, giving all kids a fair opportunity to participate in sports. There will be a bouncy castle, facepainting, food trucks, music and they will be raffling off a large prize Check out all the sports organizations offered in Paris and area! Don’t miss out on this free afternoon of family fun.

TOMORROW – COUNTY OF BRANT CAR

CRUISE – Sunday, June 23rd , Burford Community Centre from 1 pm to 3 pm. Come out for a fun afternoon to talk cars, listen to music and enjoy good food at the County of Brant Car Cruise, in partnership with the Burford & District Optimist Club. Free admission, food donations encouraged. Bring your classic cars, sports cars, trucks, ATVs, motorcycles, tractors and more! For more information email community@brant.ca or call 519 44BRANT (519 442 7268)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLE’S DAY –Celebration at Woodland Cultural Centre, Sunday, June 23rd from 11 am to 4 pm, located at 184 Mohawk St, Brantford Join us for live contemporary and cultural performances, interactive demonstrations including traditional dance and sports, hands on workshops for all ages, shopping with local vendors and artisans, Indigenous foods and more. Tours of our museum and galleries will be available with our knowledgeable guides throughout the day. There will be an Indigenous Market and food trucks on-site for the day! We encourage you to bring cash for easy payment to vendors. NoATMs on site!

SUMMER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION – Sunday

June 23 from 10 am to 4 pm at the Wincey Mills Market in Paris Pop up vendors, live music & DJ, come out and celebrate summer!

CIRCUS GENOA AT THE PARIS FAIRGROUNDS – A Circus adventure is at the fairgrounds on Wednesday June 26th . Suspense will rise and jaws will drop as you watch in awe of our fearless daredevil in the globe of death, witness our gigantic autobot as it transforms in front of you, see our amazing acrobats and lightning-fast juggler, laugh along with our hilarious performing clown, and enjoy the magic and wonder of all of our talented performers! More information available online, including tickets.

COMMUNITY DINNER – Thursday, June 27th at Paris Community Church (former Presbyterian Church) at 164 Grand River ST N from 5:30 to 6:45 pm. Join us for a delicious home cooked dinner, it's free and an excellent way to connect with your local community If you have dietary restrictions, please let us know ahead of time by emailing us at: contact@parispresb.ca.

SENIORS’ OLYMPICS – In conjunction with Seniors’ Month in June, the County of Brant is hosting a Senior Olympic Games at Paris Lions Park from 11 am to 2 pm on June 27th . This is a 55+ event. Spectators welcome.

ARTIST MARKET – July 3rd from 1 pm to 3:30 pm at Sensity Deafblind and Sensory Network of Canada, 50 Main St in Paris. Come view and purchase art made by talented artists.

BRANT PRIDE SEASON 2024 – Spirituality of Pride on July 21st , 2 pm at Glen Morris Church. To learn more reach out via email to brantpride@gmail.com

New Film Policy in the works to lessen the impacts to businesses and residents

Downtown Paris, Ontario or Ironwood, PA? Recent concerns stemming from the major production shoot of an Amazon TV series is accelerating the need for a strong Film Policy that sets a standard for expectations, notifications, use of County property, a code of conduct, as well as a framework for filming in downtown Burford, Paris and St. George in an effort to lessen the impacts to businesses and residents.

By Casandra Turnbull

Filming in the County of Brant, and how it impacts businesses and residents, is under review

Zach Gable, Director of Economic Development and Tourism was before the Administration & Operations Committee this week to present the draft of a new Film Policy that will guide filming and digital media strategies for the next 3-5 years. Among the top concerns is how filming impacts local businesses and residents The goal is to improve current filming processes and establish a film policy and permit system that ensures positive economic results while upholding the rights, safety and privacy of residents and preservation of public property

As it stands now, there is no overarching policy or framework for film activities in the County. To bring the new policy into effect, several existing county by-laws that govern different aspects of

filming would need to be updated, including park use, road, noise, fireworks, business licensing and animal control

Recent concerns arising from the major production shoot of Amazon TV series Motorheads is accelerating the need for a strong Film Policy that would set a new standard for expectations, notifications, use of County property, a code of conduct, as well as a framework for filming in downtown Burford, Paris and St. George to lessen the impacts to businesses and residents.

That would mean tighter restrictions on how production companies “dress” sets, close roads, affect businesses, provide notification for interruptions, film in restricted (environmentally, or culturally sensitive) areas, how they provide compensation, and what specific film details they should provide in advance, among a long list of other guidelines outlined in the 19-page draft report.

Gable identified that the need for this policy has been known for quite some time but recognized that the recent filming of Motorheads has brought the issue to the forefront and flagged the importance of developing and securing a policy.

“The film policy will minimize disruption to businesses and residents and empowers staff to review and process applications,” said Gable While county staff are doing their best to manage concerns and requests that have risen from Motorheads filming, he noted that in order to move forward as a film destination, Brant requires a strong policy to guide what’s acceptable and what is not.

The county will take the draft policy to members of the business community, including the Downtown Paris BIA and other local business associations and film industry stakeholders for feedback. Gable said it would be reasonable to have the revised policy before council this fall to present for approval.

Consultation with the Paris Downtown Business Improvement Association is a great first step Many local businesses have expressed outright frustration with how Motorheads has disrupted businesses over numerous days during their four block visits to town sinceApril.

Matt Cummings, Chair of the Paris BIA was also in attendance for the Tuesday meeting, where he spoke as a delegate on behalf of many of those businesses.

COMMUNITY NEWS

He recalls his initial reaction to news that Motorheads would occupy most of downtown, impacting the daily operations of small businesses, many of whom are still recovering from the pandemic and emerging from slower winter months when revenue is much lower “I was shocked that someone would ask a community of businesses to remove all their parking and access to a main street to come in and film a TV show I’ve never been that angry I felt like we were being taken advantage of,” he shared. Cummings was at the meeting to ask the county to consider the formation of a filming committee which would provide a better perspective of how film approvals affect businesses. “What I mean is not saying no (to filming) or eliminating it all together but to have some sort of steering committee that involves business groups affected by filming to come up with a proper filming policy that we can all go by that has some level of consistency and makes the job easier for county staff,” he said He noted that while some businesses were compensated because their business had a direct impact, meaning crews took over the business for the day so they could not generate revenue, but other businesses were indirectly impacted and not compensated. Examples he provided included businesses who saw little to no customers because downtown streets were closed, or residents simply avoided the area to steer clear of the chaos. Cummings is also concerned with the direction of future film application approvals when Mechanic and Broadway Streets are under construction Will the main street be closed for filming during that construction? With significant plans to repair Grand

River Street North downtown, as well as parallel streets, including improvements directed under the Downtown Master Plan, there are serious concerns whether the town can handle any more major disruptions in the next 3-5 years Councillors Steve Howes thanked Cummings for bringing the voice of reality and said he was pleased the new draft policy seems to address most of Cummings’concerns

“I believe the draft film policy addresses much of what you’re saying,” said Howes. “I’m happy to see section 2.16 (from the draft) which references areas that are sensitive to disruption, which is downtown Paris And section 2 18 specifically talks about downtown.” Howes wondered how staff would handle film requests between now and the time that the new policy is approved

Gable confirmed they would look to the draft policy when considering or approving requests. Councillor David Miller wondered if Gable could put a price tag on the economic benefits of the Motorheads production, to gage how important this draft policy is and how it will impact potential economic returns for Brant

Gable noted Motorheads has one more visit in July and once that filming is completed staff can begin to form the bigger picture of the economic impact

It was noted that aside from businesses that took a financial loss during filming, many residents filed complaints with regards to the amount of space the film crews occupied, how their scheduling negatively impacted bottleneck traffic in Paris, as well as how businesses were ‘dressed’for filming, especially the use of the Cenotaph

that donned American flags. Mayor David Bailey confirmed film crews made a donation to the legion but only approached the legion for acceptance after the flags were flown, to the irritation of many residents

The bottom line, said Bailey, is that film crews bring revenue to the county and Brant is a very desirable place to film. “I hope when we do our strategy, we don’t come down too much on them (production companies) because they do bring lots of money and lots of good does come out of filming in Brant,” said Bailey.

The County of Brant has hosted several film productions of various sizes and scales. Between 2019 to 2023, the County was home to 44 filming projects, including The Cuban, The Handmaid’s Tale and Murdoch Mysteries Motorheads has presented staff with the largest film project in the County of Brant to date with 15 filming and preparation days over the course of five separate visits

Also noted in the draft filming policy, is a staff recommendation to join the Film Incentive Coalition of Ontario. There’s a $2,500 fee to join the coalition, which would be covered using revenue from film applications. By joining the coalition, production companies are eligible for a tax credit for filming outside of the Greater Toronto Area, thus enticing more film crews to look to Brant for future projects.

For more information on this draft policy, you can review RPT-0328-24, item 8.1 from the Administration & Operations meeting (click here)

What do you think of filming in Paris? Email us: stories@theparisindependent.com

GrandBridge Energy partners with Woodland Cultural Centre to advance Truth and Reconciliation

GRANDBRIDGE ENERGY

MEDIA RELEASE– In honour of National Indigenous People’s Month, GrandBridge Energy is proud continue its partnership with the Woodland Cultural Centre in a collaborative effort to support Truth and Reconciliation. GrandBridge Energy delivered Truth and Reconciliation Awareness sessions to all employees in early June as part of the organization’s commitment to truth and reconciliation and building positive relationships with Indigenous Peoples.

The training was facilitated by Chris Ashkewe, Associate Director of Woodland Cultural Centre, and provided employees with an opportunity to learn about Indigenous history and the journey towards Truth and Reconciliation The Truth & Reconciliation sessions were even more meaningful as they were scheduled to coincide with National Indigenous History Month and took place just prior to National Indigenous Peoples Day, which is recognized annually on June 21.

The Woodland Cultural Centre has been operating for 50 years and manages the former Mohawk Institute, Canada’s only remaining Residential School open to the public, and operates an Indigenous Museum and Art Gallery. “We are honored to collaborate with

Sarah Hughes, President & CEO of GrandBridge Energy, and Debbie Lowe, Vice President, People and Talent Management, GrandBridge Energy, present Chris Ashkewe, Associate Director of Woodland Cultural Centre with a $5,000 donation to support Woodland’s Education Program.

Submitted photo

the Woodland Cultural Centre,” said Sarah Hughes, President and CEO of GrandBridge Energy. GrandBridge Energy delivers safe and reliable electricity to 113,000 customers in the City of Brantford, the City of Cambridge, the Township of North Dumfries and the County of Brant. The partnership between GrandBridge Energy and Woodland Cultural Centre is part of our commitment to supporting the important work of Truth and Reconciliation and aligns with our strategic goal to enable community ambitions.”

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The partnership, which is helping foster a greater understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures and histories, began in the fall of 2023, when GrandBridge Energy’s Management Team and Board of Directors took part in a Truth & Reconciliation education session, delivered at the Woodland Cultural Centre in Brantford The visit delivered an impactful tour of the former Mohawk Institute Residential School and a walk through the Woodland Museum to learn about Indigenous history and view beautiful works art.

“GrandBridge Energy employees and Board members have a greater understanding of the meaning of Truth and Reconciliation and the shared actions that we can all take towards true reconciliation thanks to the educational and impactful sessions delivered by Chris Ashkewe, Associate Director of Woodland Cultural Centre,” said Hughes.

“Woodland Cultural Centre is extremely grateful for the support of GrandBridge Energy. We have developed a strong, mutually beneficial partnership that supports Truth and Reconciliation in our community and beyond,” said Chris Ashkewe, Associate Director, Woodland Cultural Centre

GrandBridge Energy was proud to present Woodland Cultural Centre with a cheque for $5,000 to support their Education Program. Woodland’s Education department opens the doors to the past, present, and future of Southern Ontario’s First Nations. The department develops original resource materials to support learning through virtual and in-person programs and

educational curriculum materials for schools. The donation was the second from GrandBridge Energy, following a $5,000 donation in 2023 to support Woodland’s Language Program

The Woodland Cultural Centre serves to preserve, promote and strengthen Indigenous language, culture, art and history. The centre was established in October 1972, under the direction of the Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians upon the closure of the Mohawk Institute Residential School.

The Woodland Cultural Centre hosts various programs and events including educational workshops, cultural exhibitions, and community outreach activities These efforts are designed to promote awareness and appreciation of Indigenous heritage among the broader community.

On Sunday, June 23, the Woodland Cultural Centre will be hosting a National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at 184 Mohawk Street, Brantford.

The celebration will include live contemporary and cultural performances, interactive demonstrations including traditional dance and sports, hands on workshops for all ages, shopping with local vendors and artisans, Indigenous foods and more Tours of the museum and galleries will be available with knowledgeable guides throughout the day. Visit woodlandculturalcentre.ca to learn the past, present, and future of Southern Ontario’s First Nations peoples.

Power outage safety tips – be prepared!

Submitted Content

GrandBridge Energy delivers safe, clean, and reliable power to customers and communities in Brantford, Cambridge, North Dumfries, and Brant County.

Unplanned power outages can happen at any time due to animal contact with our electrical distribution system, adverse weather resulting in

trees falling on lines or other damage to our equipment, vandalism/theft of equipment, motor vehicle accidents, unexpected equipment failure and loss of electricity supply Act now to keep your family safe before, during, and after a power outage

Before An Outage

*Know the location of your fuse box or circuit breaker and be knowledgeable on how to reset the circuit or change a fuse.

*Keep an emergency kit with flashlights and batteries, batteryoperated radio, candles, candle holders and matches, bottled water, and blankets

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COMMUNITY NEWS

*Use a surge protector to protect electronic items like computers, TVs, DVD players, and stereo equipment

*If you have an automatic garage door, check that you can open it by hand

During An Outage

*Leave one light switch on to know when the power has been restored.

*Reduce the risk of fire Turn off the stove and any heating elements that were in use when the power went off.

*Turn off the water to the clothes washer, water heater, and dishwasher.

* If using candles, keep them away from curtains and other flammable items Try battery-operated candles –they are much safer.

* Practice food safety. Avoid opening the refrigerator or freezer as much as possible while the power is off.

After An Outage

* Inspect your property for damage. Before turning on appliances and electronics, inspect your home and outdoor areas for damage Document any damage so you can arrange repairs

* Check your electrical panel. If there is damage, turn off your power at the panel and hire a licensed

electrical contractor to make repairs for you.

*Check the food in your refrigerator and freezer A full freezer will keep food safe for up to 48 hours. That number drops to 24 hours if the freezer is half full.

* Hold off on the clean-up. Don’t attempt to remove a fallen tree or branches from powerlines – they could be energized. Wait until the powerlines are repaired and if you are unsure, call us.

*Avoid downed or hidden powerlines. Call 911 to report the issue and always remain at least 10 metres (the length of a school bus) away from downed powerlines.

The County of Brant Unveils Refreshed Economic Development Strategy

County of Brant, ON – In response to the transformed economic landscape and shifting dynamics following the COVID-19 pandemic, the County has developed a refreshed Economic Development Strategy aimed at leveraging past successes while adapting to the evolving business environment. This new strategy, which was approved by County of Brant Council in May, is designed to bolster and broaden the local economy, providing a roadmap for economic development and tourism initiatives over the short, medium, and long term.

“Recognizing the need to adapt, we embarked on updating the Economic Development Strategy,” said Zach Gable, Director of Economic Development and Tourism “The process included analyzing the current landscape through community consultation. This allowed us to gain insight into our strengths, challenges, opportunities and inspirations. With the goal being to ensure that the strategy reflects the needs and potential of our community, it paves the way for sustainable growth and development.”

Four key themes emerged from this process, forming the foundation of the new strategy:

•being business friendly and investment ready

•capitalizing on existing tourism, arts, and culture asset

•future-proofing downtown areas to create vibrant, mixed-use community cores;

•developing a diversified business community to ensure a resilient and sustainable economy

Under these themes and through stakeholder’s collaboration, 47 actionable economic

development and tourism initiatives were developed that will guide Brant's Economic Development staff and partners over the next four years.

“With 47 actionable initiatives in hand, the County is ready to advance its refreshed Economic Development Strategy,” said Gable. “Through these initiatives, our goal is to strengthen downtown cores, bolster infrastructure, and create new jobs and assessment growth. By prioritizing sustainability, innovation and collaboration, Brant aims to build a resilient and prosperous future for all.”

Further details and a comprehensive list of the initiatives can be found in the 2024-2027 Economic Development Strategy, visit www.brant.ca/InvestinBrant for more information.

Continued on page 11

Delivering the Plan… over the next four years

Firefighters from Paris and Airport Stations battle house fire on Silver Street

At approximately 10:20 am on June 17th , a total of 30 firefighters from Paris and Airport Stations responded to a report of a fire on the outside of a residential building on Silver Street in Paris Crews arrived to find an active fire behind the house with evidence of spread into the structure

Deputy Fire Chief Brent Cain said in an email to The Paris Independent, “An offensive attack was deployed along with a primary search of the house.”

He also confirmed no one was home at the time and no injuries were reported by first responders during the incident.

“The fire was brought under control very quickly followed by extensive overhaul work to ensure there was no further extension,” said Cain The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

Following the fire, firefighters followed a thorough decontamination procedure to clean them, ensure their safety and prepare them to respond to future calls.

Brant OPP were also at the scene of this structure fire, and closed part of Silver Street between Mulberry Streets and Grand River Street to ensure public safety while firefighters battled the blaze

Final Designs and Funding Applications Underway Main Branch Library Project Update:

By Chris Whelan

Brant County's Main Branch Library project took a significant step forward as the Administration and Operations Committee received an updated report on June 18, 2024. The report, compiled by Mark Maxwell, Director of Engineering and Infrastructure Planning, outlined the progress made in the project and presented a Class C cost estimate. The committee was urged to approve the recommendations and provide further direction for the project.

Under the recommendation, the committee was asked to receive the project updates presented in the report as information Additionally, they were requested to direct staff to finalize detailed designs and issue tender documents, beginning with the heritage restoration work. Furthermore, the committee was urged to instruct staff to prepare an application for the Federation of

Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Green Municipal Fund grant, targeting the most preferred project candidate determined by the council.

The Main Branch Library project aligns with the county's Strategic Priority 4 of Reliable Infrastructure and Strategic Priority 5 of Healthy, Safe, and Engaged Citizens The report highlighted the social, environmental, and economic impacts of the project, emphasizing the anticipated benefits and the focus on environmental sustainability in the design and construction processes.

Collaborative

Structures Limited (CSL) provided a detailed Class C construction cost estimate, totaling $36.2 million, which includes contingencies for design, construction, and restoration The overall project cost was updated to approximately $41.1 million, considering the latest construction cost estimate and additional items not accounted for in the previous estimate.

To fund the project, the county plans to utilize development charges, federal/provincial grants,

fundraising efforts, and the general tax levy. The report emphasized the importance of debenturing the majority of the capital costs and acknowledged the need to include annual financing costs in the financial planning.

The report also provided an overview of the project's background, including the previous Class D cost estimate and the purpose of the report It further detailed the Class C construction cost estimate prepared by CSL, outlining the major components and their associated costs. The overall project cost estimate was presented, incorporating various expenses such as land purchase, demolition, construction estimate, design fees, and more.

Regarding project funding, the report highlighted the exploration of the FCM Green Municipal Fund grant availability and the need to select the most qualified project for consideration. The Main Branch Library project was compared to the North Paris Fire Hall project, discussing the respective qualifications and challenges.

Continued on page 13

COMMUNITY NEWS

An update on the building design featured floor plans, renderings, and elevations, focusing on sustainability, energy efficiency, and heritage preservation. The report also mentioned the proposed site plan, parking arrangements, landscaping designs, and integration of green technologies like solar panels.

The report concluded by outlining the next steps, including prequalification of subcontractors, grant applications, site plan approval, tender document preparation, and ongoing fundraising efforts. The urgency to

address heritage restoration work ahead of the new building addition was emphasized due to the deteriorating condition of the building.

In summary, the Main Branch Library project is progressing with detailed designs and cost estimates available. The committee's approval and direction are crucial for project advancement and securing funding.

After much debate, the Council voted to use the FCM Green Municipal Fund grant application for the North Paris Fire Hall

project as the most qualified project for consideration. Subsequently, the Council approved the recommendation to tender both the heritage restoration and new Library development together, aiming to streamline the process and ensure efficient coordination The tenders are expected to be presented to the council in October.

The county continues to demonstrate its commitment to creating a sustainable and engaging space for its citizens, aligning with its strategic priorities and the needs of the community.

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 and another Dianne.

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

COLOUR THE COMMUNITY ORANGE!

Brant participating in Communities in Bloom 30th anniversary year

In a press release issued this week, the County of Brant announced it is thrilled to participate in this year's Communities in Bloom event.

Hosted by a Canadian non-profit organization that encourages municipalities across the country to enhance their green spaces and promote sustainable practices, Communities in Bloom is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024 but it will be the first year the county has participated in this prestigious Canadian program dedicated to fostering civic pride. “We are incredibly excited to participate in our first Communities in Bloom event,”

said Meghan Hunter, Manager, Parks Capital Planning and Forestry. “This is a wonderful opportunity for us to come together as a community, enhance our beautiful spaces, and demonstrate our commitment to environmental sustainability We are looking forward to showcasing our efforts and celebrating our shared civic pride with the judges ”

This year’s Communities in Bloom colour is orange as a tribute to surrounding Indigenous communities. Everyone who wants to be a part of this special 30th anniversary celebration is encouraged to plant orange to show their support. Judges will

tour the County of Brant on July 18-20 assessing the community’s efforts. Communities are awarded ratings from one to five blooms, with five blooms being the highest rating. High-ranking communities may advance to national and international competitions and could be eligible for special awards in areas such as sustainability, biodiversity, or community involvement.

The judging process is designed to motivate communities to collaborate in creating beautiful, sustainable, and environmentally responsible spaces that enhance residents' quality of life.

Continued on page 15

This year’s Communities in Bloom colour is orange as a tribute to surrounding Indigenous communities. Everyone who wants to be a part of this special 30th anniversary celebration is encouraged to plant orange to show their support.

. Across Canada, dedicated volunteer judges will evaluate municipalities based on six criteria:

• Environmental Action

• Heritage Conservation

• Landscaped Areas

• Floral Displays

• Tidiness

• Urban Forestry and Trails

“We are inviting Brant residents, businesses, and organizations to

join in the Communities in Bloom celebrations and prepare for the Judges' Tour,” Hunter says. “Everyone in the County of Brant is encouraged to plant orange, pollinator, and native plants, to tidy up their yards and spaces and implement sustainable gardening practices to showcase the County’s Communities in Bloom spirit. Residents can also submit photos of their gardens online through our Engage Brant website and may be featured in

our Brant In Bloom Community Profile for the judges.”

The County of Brant is looking forward to a successful and vibrant first year in Communities in Bloom, showcasing the dedicated efforts of a proud and engaged community

For more information about Communities in Bloom in the County of Brant and how you can get involved, visit brant.ca/BrantInBloom.

We want to see your gardens in bloom, Brant!

The County welcomes your photos on their Engage Brant website, and you could be featured in their Brant in Bloom Community Profile for the judges, but we want to showcase your works of art too! Gardeners, residents and anyone participating, send us your photos and we will feature them in upcoming editions of The Paris Independent! stories@theparisindependent.com

Application deadline for two $500 scholarships offered by Women’s Institute is fast approaching

The deadline is closing soon on two $500 scholarships that are up for grabs for students who are pursuing a post secondary education. Offered annually by Women Inspiring Women – Women’s Institute of Paris, the scholarships are open to graduating high school students and mature students attending a first-year higher education program this fall Applicants must live in the County of Brant or City of Brantford to be eligible. All applicants will submit a typed essay – 500 words or less – entitled, “ABrant Person who has Inspired Me.” They must explain how a person, or group of people, from Brant County, Brantford or Six Nations (living or deceased) has inspired you. Explain why this individual or group inspires you and how you are inspired by them. The only catch is the essay cannot be about a member of your family. Separate from the essay, applicants must share what program/course they are pursing, share any charity or volunteer work they’ve completed or any involvement in Community based organizations, such as 4H, Girl Guides, Junior Farmer’s, Rotary, etc and define your leadership role in these programs. Finally, applicants are asked to submit a current resume, along with the contact sheet provided on this page. The deadline to apply is by 11:59 pm on July 12th . You can submit your essay, resume and application to WIW.WI.scholarship@gmail.com

Bawcutt Centre Preserves Canada’s Heritage: A Grand Testament to the Town's History

Over the course of its remarkable 170-year existence atop a prominent hill in Paris, the magnificent Gothic-Revival structure, now known as the Bawcutt Centre, has witnessed the ebb and flow of the town's history, leaving a lasting impression on Canada’s heritage.

Initially referred to as the "old Paris town hall" due to its original purpose, this iconic edifice located at 13 Burwell St. has served as the town's municipal offices, a thriving market, a jail, a theater, a renowned craft manufacturer’s headquarters, a needlework's factory, a private residence, a movie set, and even an auction house Soon, it will embrace a new chapter as the main branch of the County of Brant Public Library, solidifying its significance in the community.

Back in 1854, the Paris council embarked on an ambitious endeavor to construct a building that would showcase the town's emerging industrial economy and propel it into a new era. Approving the commissioning and construction of a structure that was both colossal and awe-inspiring.

According to the Canadian Register for National Historic Sites, the Bawcutt Centre is described as a two-and-a-half storey rectangular building adorned with brick and stone inserts Notable features include a side tower, which originally housed a bell, angled buttresses that once boasted small turrets, and a combination of Gothic-Revival-style pointed windows alongside Tudor-style rectangular windows.

The register lauds the Bawcutt Centre as "a rare example of a civic building in the Gothic-Revival style," attributing its unique charm to the presence of medieval architectural details Surprisingly, during the 19th century when classical designs dominated, the choice of such a style for a building of this nature was considered unconventional.

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This photo shows Mary Maxim's office entrance on Burwell Street in Paris prior to building a rear addition in 1964 This modern addition has been demolished for the construction of the new library Brant Historical Society photo

LOCAL HISTORY

During its earliest years, the Bawcutt Centre served as a multifunctional space, housing both the town hall and a bustling market, following a pattern observed in similar buildings during the latter half of the century. The ground floor accommodated a covered marketplace and the council chamber, as well as the magistrate and treasurer offices. The upper floor was a grand “Opera House” In the basement, one would find a "lower market" along with cells designed to hold two prisoners Notably, during the First World War, the building played a significant role as a gathering place for soldiers embarking on their overseas journeys..

As the town's economic and social center shifted downtown, the council chamber and municipal offices were eventually relocated, leaving the original building to undergo a transformation into an industrial site.

Throughout the years, the historic structure found itself repurposed as a First World War shell factory, a needle manufacturing plant, a retail craft store, and an auction house.

In 1954, the property was acquired by the Mary Maxim company, renowned for its needlework and wool products. In 1964, they expanded the site with a two-storey addition.

The diverse threads of the building's history converged in 2015 when Skystone Media, led by

Stephen Stohn and Linda Schuyler, known for their work on the beloved Degrassi TV show, joined forces with Brant County. They generously donated $1 million to acquire the property and restore it as the Bawcutt Centre, now under county ownership. The name "Bawcutt Centre" was chosen by Linda Schuyler in honor of her parents, Jack and Joyce Bawcutt. Jack Bawcutt had not only been associated with Mary Maxim but had also served as a dedicated mayor of Paris.

Further accolades followed, cementing the venerable building's significance. In November 2017, the Brant Heritage Committee and the County of Brant organized a celebration to mark the Bawcutt Centre's designation as a heritage structure under the Ontario Heritage Act. John MacAlpine, then chair of the heritage

committee, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "It has been repurposed several times, but now it will be restored to its former glory."

In July 2020, the Bawcutt Centre received national recognition as a designated National Historic Site. Brant Mayor David Bailey, during an interview remarked, "This designation helps ensure the preservation and improvement of an incredible part of the County of Brant's history."

September 2021 witnessed the approval of county council for the construction of the new library branch at the site of the Bawcutt Centre. Anticipated to be completed by 2025, this project will breathe new life into the cherished structure, safeguarding its historical significance for generations to come!

The name "Bawcutt Centre" was chosen by Linda Schuyler in honor of her parents, Jack and Joyce Bawcutt (pictured centre) seen at the dedication ceremony held a couple years before former Mayor Bawcutt’s passing. Photo credit: Brant Heritage Committee

The ultimate guide to understanding Football (not soccer)!

Paris Sports Report with George Le Gresley

My whole family loves football, my wife and daughter played touch, my son played tackle up to university and I played and currently referee football So, let’s talk about football! Football’s origins come from Rugby; like hockey, basketball and lacrosse, the game's origins came from Canada in the early 1860’s. Montreal’s McGill University introduced the game to Harvard University in 1861. Harvard then brought it down south and introduced the game to other schools, made changes to the rules and from that point the game evolved to be the “American Pastime”

Now for those who hate or don’t understand the game because it looks complicated, it kills too many weekend afternoons, let me try to simplify things for you, football is like a play with many roles and acts. Plays are called by the Quarterback where each player has a role to play. The big guys on offence are the lineman, whose job is to 1 follow their designated play moves to create a gap for a ball carrier to run through or b) to protect the quarterback from the defence so that he doesn’t get tackled and throw the ball.

Next are the running backs, who tend to be the fast guys who are not necessarily big guys who run with the ball. The receivers on the team, are also fast guys who run patterns to catch the ball. Patterns you might hear about post (they run towards the goal posts), corner (they run toward the point where the sideline and goal line intersect), or outs (they run down the field and make a 90 degree turn to the sideline). Then is the guy you see the most on TV, the Quarterback who after taking the ball from the centre starts every play, to move the ball down the field to eventually score. Finally, there are kickers who kick for points or punts when the offense fails to score or make a first down.

The defense’s role is to stop the offense from moving the ball down the field and scoring. The defensive line’s role is to tackle the ball carrier or the quarterback with the ball Behind the line of scrimmage are the linebackers and defensive backs who cover pass receivers and finally there is the safety, who plays a bit deeper from the line of scrimmage and assists in covering the offensive players. The defense also has plays covering the offensive players and to sack the quarterback.

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Plays are called by the Quarterback where each player has a role to play. The big guys on offence are the lineman, whose job is to follow their designated play moves to create a gap for a ball carrier to run through or to protect the quarterback from the defence so that he doesn’t get tackled and throw the ball. This is a photo was taken at a PDHS Football game in the fall of 2023. Photo credit Garth Chivers

Touchdowns can be scored by both the defense and offense and happen when the tip of the ball crosses the goal line to earn six points. Convert points or “points after touchdowns” can be scored by a place kick through the uprights in the end zone for one point or a ball carrier crossing the goal line with the ball for two points. Safety points don’t occur often and is scored when the offensive player is tackled with the ball in their own end zone. Only in Canada is the “Rouge” or safety point scored. This happens when the ball on a missed field goal or a punt goes into the end zone and isn’t run out of the end zone and the kicking team earns a point. The origins of the word Rouge is French for red, which officials at one time signaled this

score with a red flag. Safeties/Rouges are controversial with many fans and there are pros and cons to it. Personally, I like it, as scoring that single point can add some dramatic situations in a football game.

American vs. Canadian Style Football

I like them both because they are different styles of football and for the same reasons I like baseball and softball. Both games have the same goal to score points and win. One big difference is the field dimensions, whereas in Canada the field and end zone is much larger Having a longer end zone gives the offence more room to score as opposed to a 10 yard end zone, where the offense has less room to play in.

In Canada we have 12 players on the field, all receivers and backs are allowed to move before the start of a play and the ball is slightly larger, closer to a rugby ball The US has 11 players a side, only allowing one player to move in the backfield Other than those big differences it’s football

So, here’s what I suggest. Try watching a live game. Commit to watching a Brantford Bison game, or a Paris High school game, or go big to Hamilton, Toronto, or Buffalo for a game. It’s a fun game to play or watch. Remember, if you see a big guy refereeing, wearing number 75, he never misses a call

Lawn Bowling season underway – new clubhouse is coming together!

The Paris Lawn Bowling seas is officially underway. Members gathered on June 4th to kick-start another season and the excitement is growing as the new clubhouse is starting to form. The Paris Lawn Bowling Club plays every Tuesday and Thursday from 7 pm to 9 pm. New members are always welcome – no experience required. The club promises, if you’ve never bowled before, they’ll give you a quick tutorial and have you on the greens playing in 10 minutes! For more information on the club or how to register, visit them online

Photo credit to Evan from the County of Brant

PARIS PREDATORS’ SCOREBOARD

Paris Youth SoftballAssociation

June 3 – U13 Buitenwerf 13, Hickson Tiers 20

June 4- U11 Turnbull 12, Hickson Tigers 23

June 5 – U13 PFD Robinson 6, Burford Panthers 10

June 5 – Team 4 wins 7-8 over Team 1 (HL)

June 6 – Team 6 wins 4-3 over Team 2 (HL)

June 6- Team 3 wins 16-5 over Team 5 (HL)

June 8 – U11 Wallis 10 – Hickson Tigers 21

June 8 – U11 Turnbull 16, Hickson Tigers 15

June 10 – U13 Buitenwerf 11, St. George Spartans 16

June 10 – U13 PFD Robinson 9, Cambridge Cougars 18

June 11 – U15 Munro 24, U15 Robinson 5

June 12 – U15 Munro 17, Ayr Jr Vic 5

June 13 – U13 PFD Robinson 13, Ayr Jr Vics 9

June 13 –U15 Robinson 5, Springfield Brewers 18

June 13 – Team 2 wins 17-6 over Team 4 (HL)

June 13 – Team 6 wins 13-10 over Team 3 (HL)

June 14 – U15 Robinson 7, Lynden 14

June 18- U11 Turnbull 16, Embro 17

June 20 – Team 6 wins 13-11 over Team 5 (HL)

*HL = House League

All other teams play in the South Oxford loop of the Ontario Rural Softball Association

Thank-you PYSA sponsors for all your support!

ABC Recreation, Big Box Steel, TAC Auto, Fountain Tire, JM Hall, Home Building Centre Paris, Brant Family Eye Care, Savory Electric, Make a Way Junk Removal Service, Comfort Plus Heating and Cool.

First Paris Soccer Club tournament of the season produces some nail-biting excitement for spectators

The Paris Soccer Club hosted the 2024 – Twin Rivers Soccer League – U10 Boys soccer tournament on June 7-9 at the Mary Maxim fields in Paris.

This tournament hosted 12 teams from 4 centres, including Ayr, Burford, Paris and St. George and teams were split up into three pools The first game of the tournament was held on June 7th at 5:30pm and the final game of the tournament was held on June 9th at

12:00pm, in total there were 22 games that were played over the 3day tournament weekend.

The tournament would not have taken place without the countless volunteer hours from the volunteers affiliated with Twin Rivers Soccer League and the Paris Soccer Club. It is important to recognize and applaud all of the volunteer coaches and assistant coaches who supported their players for the duration of the tournament. Finally,

a huge thank you to all of our referees who dedicated their whole weekend to officiating the games. Spectators were treated to some exciting, nail-biting close games, in fact, many games were either ties or a single goal differential The further into the tournament we got the more thrilling the games became, including both semi-final games going into double overtime play

The semi-final game between Paris Forest Green vs. Ayr Black after overtime play required to play on into shoot outs to decide on a winner, congratulations to Paris Forest Green on winning and securing their spot in the tournamentfinal game.

The tournaments consolation game was a pair up with two of Ayr’s U10 Boys team with Ayr Black team playing against Ayr White team, with Ayr Black winning the match 4-0 and securing third spot in the tournament.

The Final game of the tournament was a match between the home centre Paris Forest Green team and Ayr Red team, this proved to be an extremely equally matched game with a close score of 1-1 going into the last few minutes of the game with Ayr Red sneaking one final, deciding goal to secure the win.

Congratulations to Ayr Red for winning the 2024 U10 Boys Tournament and to Paris Forest Green for earning second place of the tournament and proudly representing your home centre.

Ayr Red (above) won the U10 Boys division title and Paris Forest Green (Below) were runner ups at a Paris Soccer Club hosted tournament two weeks ago.

Featuring local Artist Lisa Franklin: Art became a sanctuary to reconnect with herself

Each month I highlight the journey of one of our local artists. This month, our feature artist is Lisa Franklin, an artist whose life and work are deeply connected to nature, community, and creativity.

From an early age, Lisa was captivated by sketching Her childhood memories are filled with the joy of art classes and filling countless sketchbooks. This early obsession laid the foundation for a lifelong love of art. Lisa's formal exploration began with an art fundamentals course, where she delved into various artistic forms, expanding her horizons and growing her skills.

Life, as it often does, brought changes. Marriage and children ushered in a busy season for Lisa, one that left little room for her creative pursuits. However, the call of art was never far away "When I started picking up the brush and making art a priority, I found it to be an amazing outlet," Lisa shares. Art became a sanctuary, a place for her to

reconnect with herself.

Lisa's journey has taught her that creativity can manifest in myriad ways. "Creativity can be a painting, but it can also be as simple as decorating a rock or a wood cookie," she says. Nature serves as her primary muse, offering an endless source of inspiration. "Nature is continually showing me the direction of where to go next," Lisa explains, “there is so much beauty and artistry in nature.”

As an intuitive painter and illustrator, Lisa's work often bridges surrealism, whimsy, and

Lisa's journey has taught her that creativity can manifest in myriad ways. "Creativity can be a painting, but it can also be as simple as decorating a rock or a wood cookie," she says.

realism. She is deeply inspired by Frida Kahlo, particularly Kahlo's vivid imagery, bold colors, and ability to create despite challenging circumstances. Music, too, plays a significant role in Lisa's creative process, infusing her work with rhythm and emotion.

Acrylic paint is Lisa's medium of choice, allowing her to bring her vibrant visions to life. One of her favorite activities is foraging in the forest, collecting organic materials for her mixed media projects like her beautiful nature looms.

Continued on page 24

Photos by Taren White

ARTS & CULTURE

This practice not only deepens her connection with nature but also enriches her artwork with unique, natural elements.

Lisa's journey brought her to Paris, Ontario, where she found a welcoming and supportive community. The Wincey Mills marketplace became the fertile ground where the seeds of her dream – opening her own art shop – began to grow. Lisa speaks fondly of the community of shop owners who embraced her and made her feel at home "I love the community here," she says warmly.

In addition to her artistic endeavors, Lisa is a strong advocate for the connection between art and mental health. She believes that engaging in creative activities can have profound benefits for mental wellbeing, a philosophy that resonates deeply with her.

Lisa's shop, forest + folk, located in Wincey Mills, is a testament to her creative journey and her love for the community. Her space is bursting with handmade, one-of-a-kind creations, eco-art, and upcycled treasures, all crafted by mindful makers. Each piece in her shop tells a story of nature, creativity, and the beauty of the artistic process. Be sure to stop by forest + folk and say hello to Lisa.

Her shop is more than a place to buy art; it's a haven of creativity and community, a reflection of Lisa's own artistic journey and her deep connection to the world around her.

To learn more about Lisa and her shop, you can find her on Instagram, or visit her website. forest + folk is located in Wincey Mills, 31 Mechanic St., Paris, ON.

If you know of a local artist that would like to be featured, please reach out to: Taren White at the Taren White Gallery, 32A Dundas St. W., Paris, Ontario **New Location**

Online at www.tarenwhitegallery.com and on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tarenwhit egallery/

Like what you see? Stop by forest + folk in the Wincey Mills Market and say hello to Lisa, while viewing her array of artistic talent!

ASTROLOGY

Aries: March 21 - April 19 (Fire) –Extra charm and charisma make you more self-assured and attractive than usual, so this is an excellent time for socializing and especially for dating. Making friends comes easy, and new partnerships will be genuine and mutually beneficial. Good fortune also applies to long-distance travel, financial investments, higher education and the law

Taurus: April 20 - May 20 (Earth) - Business negotiations are favored, especially long-term investments and real estate Whether personal or professional, the discussions you have will likely be profound. The people you interact with may be much older or younger than you You will come across as knowledgeable and respected

Gemini: May 21 - June 20 (Air)Others will find you more attractive as you relax and express your personality’s affectionate and welcoming side. This is a great time for dating and mending any stressful relationships. Luck in love can be matched with some fortune elsewhere in your life Gifts, compliments, and reasonable offers may be in store

Cancer: June 21 – July 22 22 (Water) - An event or person may trigger a tipping point by trying to take away your power. In relationships, you could react by trying to control and manipulate the other person, resulting in conflict and bruised egos Compromise is needed as there are no yes or no answers, only gray areas

Leo: July 23 - August 22 (Fire) –you feel relaxed and friendly, excellent time to be with others Make others happy even when they are sad. You could also attract money, gifts or other good opportunities, but only if you try to put yourself out there

Virgo: August 23 - September 22 (Earth) – You could study, sit exams, or apply for a loan or a job You can see how the smaller parts fit into the bigger picture This is also a good time for making long-term plans and organizing anything from your kitchen drawers to a business proposal. You will be practical, efficient and thorough

Libra: September 23 - October 22 (Air) - Conscious awareness of your control and influence means you can be quietly content and proud of your achievements but not egoistic or boastful You should also have good relationships with people of power and influence. This is a good time to uncover secrets, research, and understand mysterious or occult subjects in-depth

Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 (Water) – You could study, sit exams, or apply for a loan or a job You can see how the smaller parts fit into the bigger picture This is also a good time for making long-term plans and organizing anything from your kitchen drawers to a business proposal. You will be practical, efficient and thorough

Sagittarius: November 22December 21 (Fire) – You can rely on a strong inner sense of balance and enjoy a greater sense of belonging with your partner, family, friends, and the wider community. Meeting someone new now would feel intensely karmic and could be life-changing.

Capricorn: December 22 - January 19 (Earth) – You will get things done neatly, without mistakes, and on time This is a good time for studying, making important decisions, negotiations, long-term planning, and signing contracts, especially those involving real estate and shares. You can also be confident about making commitments. New friendships and partnerships should be lasting and dependable

Aquarius: January 20 –February 18 (Air) – are excellent for partying and making love. You should feel warm, happy, friendly and generous. Good luck may come in the form of gifts, money or compliments Increased popularity, charisma, and charm make this a good time for dating Making friends comes easy, and new partnerships will be genuine and mutually beneficial Good luck also applies to education, business, and legal matters

Pisces: February 19 - March 20 (Water) – You can count on logical and thorough thinking with a healthy dose of skepticism to make the right choices. This systematic thinking also favors scheduling meetings and appointments, clearing your intray and organizing anything in your life. Communications will likely be of a serious or practical nature, and you can effectively deal with challenging relationship issues.

Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford For Saturday, June 22, 2024

Inside Out 2

Standard 10:30a.m. 11:30a.m. 1:10p.m.

2:10p.m. 3:50p.m. 4:50p.m. 6:40p.m.

9:30p.m.

3D 7:30p.m. 10:00p.m.

Bad Boys: Ride or Die

Standard 1:20p.m. 4:10p.m. 7:10p.m.

9:55p.m.

The Bikeriders

Standard 12:50p.m. 4:00p.m. 7:15p.m.

10:00p.m.

The Garfield Movie

Standard 12:30p.m. 3:30p.m. 6:20p.m.

3D 9:00p.m.

The Exorcism

Standard 2:00p.m. 4:30p.m.

7:00p.m. 9:40p.m.

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Standard 11:40a.m. 2:55p.m.

6:10p.m. 9:25p.m.

Standard 1:00p.m. 3:40p.m. 6:30p.m. 9:20p.m.

Spider-Man: Across the SpiderVerse

Standard 11:00a.m.

JUNE 21 – 27, 2024 GATES OPEN AT 8pm MOVIES START AT DUSK

Now Open 4 Nights a Week

Friday – Sunday & CAR LOAD

Thursday $20