The Paris Independent for Saturday June 3rd, 2023

The Paris Horticultural Society’s annual Garden Tour takes place this weekend You can catch a glimpse behind the gates of six beautiful gardens located throughout Paris and area. This 20-year tradition is always held the first weekend of June The Garden Tour takes place all day today, June 3rd and tomorrow, June 4th from 10 am to 4 pm Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at Green Heron Books, Sobeys, Walters Greenhouses, Dragonfly Landscape Supply and Paris Home Hardware. Proceeds from the tour are used for various beautification projects around town See page 6 for more details Pictured above are Dave Collins and Doug Hanna

Margaret Collins

Photo by

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

Emergency: 9-1-1

Police Department: 519-442-2242

Fire Department: 519-442-4500

Willet Hospital: 519-442-2251

County of Brant Office: 519-442-6324

Paris Public Library: 519-442-2433

Paris Public Schools:

Paris High: 519-442-4477

North Ward: 519-442-2311

Paris Central: 519-442-4163

Cobblestone: 519-442-2500

Paris Catholic Schools:

Holy Family: 519-442-5333

Sacred Heart: 519-442-4443

Paris Councillors & Mayor:

Mayor - David Bailey

Ward 2 - Steve Howes

Ward 2 - Lukas Oakley

Ward 3 - John Bell

Ward 3 - John Peirce

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

226-387-2490

519-442-4955

226-216-3037

519-209-2277

519-442-7134

Administration & Bylaw: 519-442-7268

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

Managing Editor

Advertising Sales Photographer

News Reporter

News Reporter

News Reporter

Chris Whelan

Casandra Turnbull

Chris Whelan

Michelle Malvaso

Carolina Saenz

Bailey Zimmer

Rubyyy Jones

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STATEMENT

We are an independently owned organization made up of like minded 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:

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

CARASMITH BAND PRESENTED BY THE BURFORD OPTIMIST CLUB TODAY- A night of country music and classic rock covers, with 100% of proceeds going to the new skatepark in Burford Saturday, June 3 from 8 pm to 12 am at the Burford Community Centre. Learn more and get your tickets online.

PARIS LIONS CLUB WALK FOR DOG GUIDES TOMORROW –Sunday, June 4th meeting at Lion’s Park Paris for registration at 1 pm. Everyone welcome to participate. Check out the story in this edition!

SUPER PULL – Saturday, June 10th at the Paris Fairgrounds. Hear the roar of the engines as the tractors and modified trucks compete in pulls along the track Food trucks and a beer garden Lawn tractors at 11am, main event at 5pm. Tickets available online.

UNOFFICIAL OFFICIAL PRIDE OF PARIS - A weekend of connecting, celebrating and building community in Paris, Ontario and beyond. Pride is a protest and our protest is one that is about strengthening ties, nurturing 2SLGBTQIA+ joy and wellness AND celebrating our vibrant lives There’s a number of events taking place from June 16 to June 18. Visit the Facebook page to find out more details!

GLOW IN THE DARK DODGEBALL - Sojourn Church and Paris Presbyterian are partnering together to bring you this amazing Youth Event! Join us for an evening of fun. We are going to have pizza so bring an appetite. We will be playing glow in the dark dodgeball, please wear a white shirt And we will have a conversation about faith and life *For students in grades 7-9 (as of September 2023). Friday, June 9th from 6:30 pm to 9 pm. Must register in advance online.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

PARIS

HORTICULTURAL

SOCIETY

GARDEN TOUR TODAY - Saturday & Sunday, June 3 & 4th from 10 am - 4 pm in Paris. Come and visit behind the gates of six beautiful Paris and area gardens. Live Musician’s and Local Artist’s will be performing In the gardens Tickets $15.00 per person. Tickets may be purchased in advance at Sobeys Floral Department in Paris, Green Heron Books, Walter’s Greenhouse or at the Gardens on the day of the event. Please call Anne Vernon 905-536-2037 for more information.

PARIS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY JUNE

MEETING - June 7th at the Paris Fairgrounds at 7:30 pm. Our guest speaker is truly Anna Leggatt from York on June 7th(last minute switch happened in May), her topic is ‘Shade Gardens’. Anna writes for several magazines on topics which include her travels abroad, and subjects that reflect her vast interest and passion for gardening. We welcome visitors. Come and join your local Garden Club!

PARKS AND REC OPEN HOUSE – Wednesday, June 7th from 6 pm to 8 pm at the Brant Sports Complex Share your input to help shape the Parks & Rec programs offered by the County More information on this engagement online.

ANNUAL BIKE RODEO – Hosted by the Paris Community Safety Group on Saturday June 10th, at the Syl Apps Community Centre, side parking lot from 10 am 12 pm. Free! Everyone ages 4-12 are welcome to attend. There is a chance to win a bicycle, courtesy of Robin McNaughton from the Co-Operators

ROYAL STORY TIME – On Saturday, June 17th at Telfer Place, 245 Grand River St N at 1 pm. The Midnight Princess from the Glass Slipper Company will be at Telfer Place to share stories, sign songs and take pictures. Interact with a princess and all the Telfer Place residents. Everyone is welcome. Tickets are $5 / person and are available online.

AYR PARIS BAND CONCERT SERIES

– Royal Canadian Legion, Paris Branch, at 70 William St. on Wednesday, June 21st from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend!

County formally approves New Official Plan

The 800-page document will guide growth and development

Brant County over the next 30 years

By CasandraTurnbull

A strenuous four-year process ended this week as County Council formally approved the New Official Plan (OP). Now it goes to the province for review and approval.

The county’s strategic priority is sustainable and managed growth that protects and enhances our identity, while adhering to provincial conformity – a tricky balance This new plan replaces the previous one, which was adopted in 2012, and no longer met the needs of this growing municipality

Feedback from residents suggests our communities need to create a growth management strategy; improve housing affordability; improve walkability; maintain small-town character; protect farmland and natural areas; solve parking and traffic issues; improve rural infrastructure and add local jobs. Analytics show we have an excess of residential lands and a shortfall of employment lands designated to meet our expected growth.

A draft of the OP was sent to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing in August of 2021. It wasn’t until December 2022 that the County received word that the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing would not provide official comments on the draft plan and that the County should

proceed with plans to adopt a new OP for the Minister’s approval After some updates to the draft OP, centred around the growth plan, participially how the county will align with Bill 23: More Homes Built Faster Act, the plan was presented to residents during an open house inApril.

A quick overview of the New Official Plan shows the county will grow to a minimum of 59,000 residents from today’s 40,000 Employment will nearly double from 15,000 to 26,000. If all the lands within the settlement area boundaries are utilized, the county has the potential to grow to 75,000 residents by 2051. Paris, the fastest growing town in the municipality, will grow to a minimum of 26,000 but if all available lands are developed, has the potential to grow to 32,000.

Ward 3 Councillor John Bell said this week in an online social media post that ‘we need to plan not for the minimum but for what might be a more realistic view of growth – it impacts our thinking on infrastructure, recreation and much more.’

The plan encourages the development of all housing types, including smaller attainable and affordable properties, which is an important focus for councillors this term, despite pushback from the provincial government Bell went on to state,

in

“With colleagues, I will be pushing hard for more housing of this type to meet the needs of existing and future residents.”

You can expect to see more growth in the industrial section of the Paris settlement area boundary along the 403 corridor and off Rest Acres Road, to help meet the employment land target of 26,000. Outside of Paris, the next communities to feel the development boom will be St George and Burford.

The village of St. George will grow rapidly, according to details from the new OP. It will grow to an expected 16,000 people if all available lands are utilized. Burford will be included as a part of the urban system, along with Paris and St. George, as it will be fully serviced (water and wastewater) in the coming 30 years. According to the OP, Burford’s development will really take off between 201 and 2036.

“Our Policy Planning team have done a great job in building this plan - they have consulted widely and listened and incorporated many suggestions and comments and they have been working against a rapidly changing Provincial Legislative background,” applauded Bell.

For a more in-depth look at the new Official Plan, check it out online on EngageBrant’s website

Sneak peak at this year’s Gardens on tour

The Paris Horticultural Society provided our readers with a sneak peak of what to expect at this weekend’s Garden Tour. The private gardens can be toured with the purchase of a ticket (see details on front page). In addition to gardens, there will be live entertainment and local artists performing.

Photos by Margaret Collins

How are funds used around town?

Money raised from Horticultural Society fundraisers, like the annual plant sale in May and the Garden Tour in June, are used for various projects around town, such as the beautiful planters downtown Paris, maintenance at local parks and greenspaces, the cenotaph, to name a few. Pictured above, PHS members worked with the County’s Parks and Forestry Department to plant two pin oak trees in the Paris Cemetery near the chapel. These trees are to commemorate the passing of Queen Elizabeth and the Coronation of King Charles Photos submitted by Paris Horticultural Society

THE FUTURE OF PARKS & RECREATION Find out more about the 50,000 square foot expansion plans for the Brant Sports Complex!

By Casandra Turnbull

There are several open houses planned this month as the county is looking for community input on the future of parks and recreation services. As the communities grow and services become high in demand, the county is planning for the future and staff want to hear from you! The first of three open houses happens place next Wednesday, June 7 at 6 pm at the Brant Sports Complex. This drop in style event will focus solely on upcoming parks and services provided in Paris.

There are a total of 66 parks in the County of which 24 are in Paris. As development continues to boom in town, there are five more parks in the pipeline right now, along with plans to create trails by Watt’s Pond Road and along the Grand River in the Paris Grand subdivision. And the open houses will not only collect feedback on what future parks will look like, they will also ask residents for comments on how to enhance existing parks and refresh them with new amenities. As the town continues to grow and diversify, the services residents are looking for continues to expand.

There’s high demand for shade structures and low impact development principles such as rain gardens and bioswales to adopt to climate changes and provide good quality of natural habitat; more so than ever before, there’s further emphasis on preservation and managing natural heritage, said Stacy Ellins, Director of Parks & Recreation. She added that demographics are shifting and the county is receiving requests for services or fixtures that were never considered before – such as cricket facilities

One of Paris’ newest parks, the Jay Wells Park that formally opened last week on Scenic Ridge Gate, is equipped with a basketball courts, which are fully enclosed to double as ball hockey courts, the first of its kind in Paris.

Ellins says it’s important to host open houses like this one to give everyone a chance to voice their opinion, especially newer residents who haven’t provided input yet.

Continued on page 8

Do you want a beautiful park in your neighbourhood, like the Jay Wells Park pictured above? Make sure you attend a Parks & Rec Open House next week. The Paris Open House will feature plans for an expansion at the Brant Sports Complex, as well as a concept for a new indoor turf facility near the sports complex.

Mounties Report

“There are a lot of investments needed until build out and we need to budget correctly,” says Ellins “The development charges update is occurring in 2024 so we need to ensure all needs are captured based on growth of the municipality,” she adds.

BRANT SPORTS COMPLEX EXPANSION PLANS

In addition to Parks the county is asking for valuable input and feedback from residents on the types of recreational services they’d like to see in the community To meet the demand for more recreational services in a growing community the County is preparing for an expansion at the Brant Sports Complex The design work for the expansion is slated to begin this fall so now is the time to provide your thoughts on what the new expansion should include. The 50,784 square foot expansion is estimated to cost

more than $20 million The major focus of the expansion will be indoor gymnasium courts to meet the growing demand for county-based programs such as basketball, gymnastics, volleyball, pickleball, etc. Right now, the county relies on local schools to provide space to fill the 10,000 hours (annual) of gymnasium time for these types of programs. A brand-new triple gymnasium, change rooms a walking track and fitness equipment are proposed for the expansion.

“A gymnasium is a high priority as the county has no space to offer programs such as pickleball, summer camp, volleyball, etc,” said Ellins, adding that the expansion plans are just in concept stages only and public opinion is required to finalize the exact amenities and components people want to see.

Continued on page 9

To the left is a rendering of the exterior of the Brant Sports Complex illustrating where the new expansion will go. Design plans for this planned expansion will move forward this fall.

To the right is a rendering of what the inside of the new expansion will look like. County staff are asking for your input to finalize the amenities that will be in the new expansion –such as the gymnasium and walking track pictured.

INDOOR TURF FACILITY

The County’s also shared plans to potentially construct a new indoor turf facility on designated park lands on Pottruff Road, running parallel to Powerline Road, minutes from the Brant Sports Complex. This new facility is part of the County’s future Parks and Recreation plans.

The project capital cost for this building, quoted in 2021, is pegged at $15.06 million. The proposed indoor soccer facility would feature two 100’ x 200’ indoor turf soccer pitches, locker/change rooms, viewing areas, storage space, public washrooms and a staff/maintenance area. Space beside the designated parking lot will be allocated for future outdoor sports fields.

If you want to learn more about

these two projects or share your opinion about the parks and recreation programs in the county, drop by the open house on Wednesday at the Brant Sports Complex located at 944 Powerline Road from 6 pm to 8 pm. If you can’t make it out, you can provide

your feedback through the online service located on EngageBrant website. There are also open houses planned on June 8 from 6 to 8 pm at the Gaukel Memorial Community Centre in St. George and on June 12 from 6 to 8 pm at the Mount Pleasant Pavilion in Mount Pleasant.

Kiwanis Club plants Indigenous Garden to benefit Paris Food Bank

Kiwanis club member Tim Risebrough, seen here with Paris high school student Ian, takes the lead on planting preparations at the USIC Indigenous Community Garden, located behind PDHS. The garden was funded by the United Indigenous Student Council group, which in turn is funded by Six Nations of the Grand River. It is maintained by the Kiwanis Club of Paris-Brant. To prepare for the season, a cleanup, some repairs and painting were completed; then some seasonal produce seeds were planted: rhubarb, shallots were planted, corn, beans and squash. The finished product will be donated to the Paris Food Bank, located at the Salvation Army.

Photo credit Stan Hutchinson

Proposed plans for an indoor turf facility to be located on Pottruff Road, just minutes from the Brant Sports Complex. See more on these plans at Wednesday’s Parks & Rec Open House at the Brant Sports Complex from 6 pm to 8 pm

Children invited to annual Bike Rodeo next weekend!

By Casandra Turnbull

The Annual Bike Rodeo has been a longstanding tradition in town for more than 30 years. The fun event brings families together to show off their creatively decorated bicycles and learn a little bit about bike safety. It’s a fun yet valuable experience for children and it takes place next Saturday. Hosted by The Paris Community Safety Group, the rodeo starts at 10 am and runs until noon at the Syl Apps Community Centre parking lot. Event organizers are pleased with this year’s central location and combined with some nice weather they are hoping for a good turnout

The Paris Community Safety Group has organized the rodeo for over 10 years, taking the reins from the Paris Optimist Club who ran it for many years. This year’s rodeo is supported by the Brantford Safety Village, the Paris Optimist Club, the Brant County OPP, and Robin McNaughton from the Cooperators. McNaughton generously donates the new bicycle that is awarded to one lucky participant. The Paris Firefighters’Club has donated funds to help organizers purchase bike safety items to hand out as prizes Several local organizations work hand in hand to offer this free event, all in the name of safety and public education

“We feel that with the increased population and traffic it is necessary more than ever that our children learn to ride their bicycle safely. Our region is a hub for bike trails and it is important to start bicycle safety at an early age so that it is an enjoyable lifelong passion,” said Edith Stone, Chair of the Paris Community Safety Group.

Stone became involved in the local safety group when her children, now grown, were attending North Ward School

Last year, Kathryn McLaren was the lucky draw winner of a brand-new bike generously donated by the McNaughton Agency of The Co-Operators in Paris. Pictured above left to right is Edith Stone, Chair of the Paris Community Safety Group, Kathryn and Robin McNaughton, the Co-Operators.

As the Home and School Chair she was instrumental in securing crossing guards to help the school children cross busy streets to get to school The Paris Safety Community Group, called the ‘Community Policing’ group at that time, issued a letter of support to address County Council. That was the start of a connection that led to a couple decades (and counting) of community volunteerism. The bike rodeo is open to children ages four and up. No registration required just show up on the morning of the event with your decorated bike and be ready to navigate the course filled with various stations that test your skills and bike safety knowledge.

Photo provided by Edith Stone

Area elementary students explore variety of trades during Epic Job Fair in May

BRANTFORD (May 26, 2023) – About 1,600 elementary school students from across the Grand Erie region got to try their hand at skilled trades during the Epic Jobs 2023 event held on May 24.

Grade 7 and 8 students received some hands-on, valuable life skill experience tackling a variety of trades set up to introduce the students to welding, fuse copper pipe together, learn how to use a nail gun, build a cement block wall, operate an excavator, work with sheet metal and more Students also had an opportunity to have their hair braided, sit in the cab of a $1 million piece of forestry equipment, try a police obstacle course, dress up as a fire fighter, and meet paramedics.

Epic Jobs featured more than 40 businesses and organizations who showcased their careers at the event, held inside and outdoors at the Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre in Brantford.

Students from the Grand Erie District School Board, Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board and independent Six Nations schools were bused in for the day-long event.

“It was incredible to see how excited kids were trying out the different interactive activities and talking with trades people,” said Danette Dalton, executive director of the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie, one of the lead organizers. “At the same time, the businesses were excited to share their passion for the trades and explain what great career options they have.”

The Workforce Planning Board is one of 26 nonprofit organizations in Ontario that play a leadership role in labour force planning. This is one of many events they host to bolster workforce opportunities in Brant-Brantford.

Continued on page 12

A student gets lifted into an ambulance by BrantBrantford Paramedic Services while another one insulates a pipe during activity hosted by Heat & Frost Insulations Local 95. Submitted photos -WPBG

It was the first time since 2019 that Epic Jobs was held in person since the pandemic forced the cancellation of live events. Epic Jobs was first held in 2017.

“The purpose of Epic Jobs is to open the eyes of students to the trades and plant a seed that may grow into a career down the road,” Dalton said. “For the majority of students, it was their first time working with their hands or meeting a trades person ”

Dalton said that there’s a shortage of workers in many trades and that shortage will continue for years to come as more trades people retire

“What students learned at Epic Jobs could inspire their choices for high school courses and their careers after graduating. There’s a huge need for trades people and job training programs to help people to get into the trades

“We are very thankful to all our exhibitors. They generously put in lots of time, effort and expense to give students an experience to remember”

The event wouldn’t be possible without the organization and collaboration of the Grand Erie District School Board, Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board, the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) operated by both school boards, Organized Kaos and the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie

The Epic Job Fair welcomed over 1,000 students on May 24th giving them an introduction to a variety of trades such as operating heavy equipment (excavator) at the Conestoga College booth or using hand tools, like a nail gun at the Organized Kaos booth.

THANK-YOU, EPIC JOB FAIR Sponsors

and exhibitors

*Brant Community Foundation

*Enterprise Brant

*Simply Electric

*Sunbelt Equipment Rentals

*Stelco

*LiUNA Local 837

*Organized Kaos

*United Association Local 67 – Plumbers, Steamfitters & Welders

*Ogwehoweh Skills and Trades Training Centre

*County of Brant Economic Development and Tourism

*City of Brantford

*Rassaun Services Inc.

*Walters Inc.

*Tigercat Industries

*Stubbe’s

*Toyota

*Shallow Creek Academy of Hair Design

*Conestoga College

*Fanshawe College

*Sheet Metal Workers & Roofers Local 537

*Brotherhood of International Boiler Makers

*Niagara Peninsula Aboriginal Area Management Board (NPAAMB)

*St. Leonard’s Community Services

*Six Nations Polytechnic

*Brantford Fire Department

*Brantford Police Service

*Brant-Brantford Paramedic Services

*City of Brantford EarlyON Child Care Centres

*Fanshawe Community Career and Employment Services

*AgScape

*GrandBridge Energy

*OYAP

*SHSM

*B.N.C. Crane Service

*Women’s Trucking Federation

*KickAss Careers/Helmets to Hardhats

*Bowman Precision Tooling

*Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers Local 95

*Support Ontario Youth

*Orion Dairy

Submitted photos -

*Construction Training & Apprenticeship Ontario *Bobcat

Whatever happened to Penny Candy Stores?

There was something special about being a kid in Paris and going to one of the many corner stores we had They were a place where you could find all sorts of treasures, from candy and toys to snacks and drinks The stores might have been small and cramped, but they were full of possibilities. As you approached the store, you could feel the excitement building inside you. You might be with your friends, or maybe you're going solo, but either way, you knew you were in for a treat. The bell on the door jingles as you push it open, and you're hit with the sound of fridges running and the smell of sugary treats. You head straight for the candy counter, your eyes wide with anticipation. There are so many choices, it's hard to decide what to pick. Do you go for jawbreakers, fireballs, Laffy Taffy, hot lips, double bubble, wax bottles, sour candy, pixie sticks…? The list was endless! Maybe you'll get a little bit of everything You carefully count out your coins, hoping you have enough to cover your purchases. These stores were billed as “penny candy” stores The reason being is that you could walk in with ten cents and leave with a little paper bag full of goodies If you were lucky, you had a quarter! But it's not just about the candy.

The corner store was also a place to catch up on the latest news and gossip. You might run into your neighbours or classmates, and you'll swap stories about what's been going on in your lives. The store owner might chime in with a joke or a bit of advice, and you feel like part of a community As you leave the store, your pockets a little lighter but your spirits high,

you feel like you've accomplished something You've navigated the world of commerce, made some new friends, and satisfied your sweet tooth all at once. It was a good feeling, one that you'll remember for years to come. Sadly, the corner penny candy stores are disappearing just like the pennies we used to buy candy with.

A few Paris Corner Stores… Then and Now…

In the first pic we see “Tough’s Variety” beside Tough’s Park” then it became Russell Taylors’ Variety and since it was beside a park it wasn’t unusual for a football to break a window now and then Today it’s the house beside the park at 23 Willow Street.

Brownies Variety is Now R&R Pool & Spa. Home of Rosie’s Ice Cream at 271 Grand River St N

Dutton’s Variety was located in this house at 80 Banfield Street,

Paris FC soccer teams on the move!

The U10 boys (not pictured) and the U13 boys (to the left) travelled to Hillsburgh for the HEADS Up! Cup. The U13 boys were dominant in their group, going 4-0-0 through the semi-finals with 14 goals for, 0 against - but fell 3-0 in the championship game for a 2nd place finish. The U16 boys (pictured above) travelled to Erie Pennsylvania for the Erie Premier Memorial Day Classic where they finished with a 0-2-1 record in round robin play.

Paris FC U13 boys (left) also took part in an initiative with their sponsor, Dufferin Aggregates, to plant over 200 milkweed plants - to aid in the survival of the endangered monarch butterfly.

All photos courtesy of Paris FC

The U10 girls (pictured above) took part in the Brantford City Soccer Club Festival on the Grand and had a great day.

Paris’ Jack Kelly helps lead Cambridge Lion’s to victory

PDHS Panther and Paris athlete Jack Kelly had a strong game in his Cambridge Lions debut. Jack scored two touchdowns and rushed for 85 yards as the Cambridge Lions U18 team won their home opener on Saturday, May 27th against the Niagara Speers. Pictured here with PDHS Coaches Ed Kelly (dad) and Troy Kelly. Jack was a member of the PDHS 2023 Senior Football team that claimed the AABHN championship title last fall for the first time in PDHS history.

PDHS Girls’ Fastball team heads to A.A.B.H.N

championship game

The Paris District High School Girls Fastball team is heading to the A A B H N championship game on Tuesday where they will face Brantford’s BCI. Paris beat the defending champions, McKinnon Park SS 9-3 in the semi-final game on May 31st to advance.

PHDS finished the regular season in second place with three wins and no loses. Only two points separated PDHS and BCI who had four wins and no losses in regular season play BCI shut out Delhi District High School 12-0 in their semi-final game. The finals will be held in Paris at the Green Lane Sports Complex on June 6th at 1:30 pm. Fan support is always an asset!

Photo shared by PDHS Football Coach Steve Fergus

A PDHS player takes a swing at a pitch during the A.A.B.H.N championship game last year. PDHS heads to the finals again this year, taking place at Green Lane Sports Complex at 1:30 pm on June 6th .

Archive Photo by Michelle Malvaso

Calling all tennis players – local club has openings left for lessons and upcoming tournaments

The Paris Tennis Club is extending an open invitation to anyone interested in signing up for their June 2023Adult Tournament. It will be held Saturday, June 24th at the courts in Paris and is open to anyone over the age of 16. There are plans for a Junior Tournament this summer as well, details of which are to follow. This is a singles/doubles elimination tournament and there will be prizes (!) for the finalists. Cost is $10 for members and $15 for non-members More information is available online www.theparisclub.ca

The Paris Tennis Club is also planning to send a group on a trip to the National Bank Open for

Thursday evening August 10th11th Let them know if you're interested in joining by emailing info@theparisclub.ca

In other Tennis news, the club reports it's great to see the enthusiasm for lessons and there are still spots open if you’re interested. The Red Level Kids Program for beginners and ages 58 years has only one spot open on Mondays from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm.

The Orange Level Kids Program for ages 8-11 years is fully sold out on Wednesdays, but there are still spots left in the Monday group from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm.

The Green Level Kids Program for ages 11-14 years is completely

sold out.

The Little Aces Program for ages 3 - 5 years still has openings on Saturdays from 9:30 am to – 10 am The Adult Beginners Lessons are full

Don't forget about Junior Saturday Social Tennis running from 11am to 12:30pm. You can sign up here or just drop in.

Scouts enjoy adventure down the Grand River

The 1st Paris Scouting Group picked a beautiful day to venture down the Grand River! The youngsters learned about river safety and the beauty of the Grand during a rafting trip on Sunday, May 28th . They paddled from Paris to Brantford while taking in the sights and sounds of Spring.

Grand River Street reconstruction project begins June 19 – expect delays

Construction season is underway - and Brant is no exception

As work on Market Street is nearing completion, be ready for more delays this time coming from one of Paris’main corridors.

Grand River Street North will be closed down starting June 19 until about mid-December, if all goes according to plan. Expect delays as a section of Grand River Street North between Silver Street to Scott Ave will be closed to replace the trunk sewer and watermain.

The road will be reduced to one lane, one way, in the southbound direction. All northbound traffic will be detoured along Silver Street, Oak Avenue and Scott Avenue. Intersection closure will occur when required. All businesses will remain open during construction County of Brant Staff are working with two different consultants to complete the design for the reconstruction of Grand River Street North that will be completed in stages over the next few years.

It’s

The Scott Avenue roundabout project will be tendered in 2024 for construction to commence in the summer and finish in the fall. This work is necessary to have the Scott roundabout in operation prior to the new north fire station going into operation in late 2024 or early 2025.

Roundabouts are planned at Watts Pond Road, Scott Avenue and Trillium Way.

While the construction work is ongoing, staff and a consultant will be working on securing property along the corridor from Watts Pond Road to Silver Street to widen the right of way to allow for utility relocation and the ultimate surface design/construction as per the approved GRSN Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA). Timelines for this are unknown, but the goal is to have as much completed by the end of 2023 The focus will be to secure what is needed around the Scott Avenue intersection as quickly as possible.

Paris has the best places to stay & eat!

This comes as no surprise to locals, but Paris has some of the most unique and beautiful heritage buildings and is bursting at the seams with some of the best culinary experiences in Ontario. Fact in point, just this past week, The Arlington Hotel was honoured with a Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice award for 2023.

Carmen’s Group acquired the Arlington Hotel and the Dominion Telegraph Event Centre in November 2022. The renown hospitality expert group, based in Hamilton, has some exciting plans for the historic establishment, which apparently are well-received by guests! The Arlington Hotel dates back to the early 1850s, while the Dominion Telegraph Event Centre is famously known as the location from which Alexander Graham Bell made the first long distance phone call in 1876.

no secret –

What’s that on the road?

Traffic monitoring devices and new speed hump installations all part of the Brant Safe Street initiative

Have you noticed raised, black square patches on various roads around town lately?

The Paris Independent touched base with the roads department recently to inquire Turns out these little patches are important sensors used to record traffic counts. This new technology replaces the old-style tubes that used to lie across the road. The sensors are used to monitor traffic volumes and changes in volume

In a more obvious what’s on the road news, motorists should take notice of new speed humps on local roads in Paris Last week, three portable speed humps were installed on Oak

Avenue, between Woodslee Ave and Silver Street and permanent speed humps were constructed on Hartley Avenue, between Pinehurst Road and Oak Avenue.

Just days ago, additional speed humps were installed on Banfield Street between Jury Street and Warwick Street; Cobblestone Drive between Rest Acres Road and Savannah Ridge Drive; Irongate Drive between King Edward Street and Cobblestone Drive and on Washington Street between Hillside Ave and Main Street.

Modifications like these are all part of traffic calming measures offered

through the Brant Safe Streets program Since it was introduced in 2019, the program has led to over 150 modifications on county roads, designed to improve public safety. Residents can submit traffic-related concerns through the Brant Safe Streets program and the county responds by installing educationbased and enforcement practices: speed radar signage, portable and permanent speed humps, changes to the design of roads, additional stop signs, etc.

To learn more, or make a report, visit the program online

Brant Municipal Enterprise CEO departs role

MEDIA RELEASE - The County of Brant in collaboration with the Board of Directors for Brant Municipal Enterprises announce the departure of the Brant Municipal Enterprises Chief Executive Officer, Brooke Hayward.

“Mrs. Hayward began with Brant Municipal Enterprises as Director of Energy in 2013 and was promoted to the Chief Executive Officer role in 2018,” said Mayor David Bailey, Chair of the Board of Directors for Brant Municipal Enterprises “We thank Mrs Hayward for her time and

commitment to Brant Municipal Enterprises and wish her the best in future endeavors.” Brant Municipal Enterprises Inc. is an incorporated, County of Brant owned corporation with a primary focus on generating new revenues for the County of Brant while adding economic and social value to the community. Brant Municipal Enterprises focuses on renewable energy development and real estate.

“We truly appreciate everything that Mrs. Hayward has accomplished over the last ten years with Brant Municipal Enterprises including the construction of the Cowan

Community Health Hub,” said Alison Newton, Chief Administrative Officer of the Count of Brant. “Mrs. Hayward was part of building Brant Municipal Enterprises and enhancing the County’s focus on renewable energy among many other accomplishments.”

Adam Crozier, Project Manager for the County of Brant’s Chief Administrative Officer, will be appointed as Acting Chief Executive Officer of Brant Municipal Enterprises effective June 5, 2023, as recruitment commences.

What’s that clucking sound coming from your backyard? Councillors revisit backyard chicken bylaw as the question comes forward again – to lay the egg or not – err to allow them or not?

By Bailey Zimmer

On May 16, 2023, Brant County Administration and Operations Committee discuss modified regulations regarding backyard chickens and keeping poultry as pets.

Backyard chickens within the County of Brant are under deliberation after many years of community members expressing their desire for small scale farming experiences and keeping chickens on their property.

Currently, chickens within the County of Brant, with the exception of The City of Brantford, are not to be kept as pets, even in seemingly rural areas

“I’m not insisting that Council amends the bylaw entirely, I’m suggesting maybe the easiest route be taken, if it simplifies things,” said delegate Casey Nykorak in the meeting. “My recommendation is that non-urban zoned properties like my own have an allowance for backyard chickens.”

Nykorak suggests the number of chickens an owner may have can depend on the size of the lot they own as well as to deny the ownership of a rooster on certain plot sizes to avoid unwanted noise that may disturb others.

As of June 2022, the city of Brantford currently allows up to 10 chickens within a property, with a maximum of one rooster to be included in the 10. In Brantford, chicken owners must have a permit from the City of Brantford allowing them to own and house chickens.

While the regulations currently within Brantford are not applicable to the rest of the County, council will soon make a decision regarding backyard chickens and decide if some areas within the county will be eligible to have small scale chicken farms on individual homeowner’s property

Currently in Brantford, the ByLaw restricts the

Some residents are asking council to reconsider a bylaw that prevents them from raising chickens in their backyard The concept was discussed at a recent Administration & Operations Committee meeting but must go before council to determine if it will be allowed or not.

number of birds each lot may allow, as well as the placement of the chicken coop. If the chicken coop cannot fit appropriately on the property without disturbing other structures, it will not be permitted.

From By-Law chapter 206, article 10.3 A, a chicken coop “cannot be located in the front yard or exterior side yard as defined in the City of Brantford Zoning Bylaw 160-90 as amended; and be no less than 7.5m from structures on other lots.”

Photo by Rodrigues Homestead

Some residents within the County are concerned about the smell, noise or other wildlife that may be attracted to the chickens or the feed should the ByLaw regulations be altered

From 206, 10.3 D, a chicken coop should “have regular cleaning to remove debris and other potential hazards including soiled material that could cause foul odour and is disposed of or composted in accordance with all applicable laws and legislation.” If this section of the ByLaw is obeyed, the smell or other hazards caused by chickens should be minimalized and limiting concern for surrounding neighbours.

Another concern with backyard chickens currently is from biohazards and how the chickens may affect wildlife or humans. In particular, the avian flu is a concern for some, though the flu is mainly transmitted from migratory birds and will rarely affect humans. According to the Government of Canada website in section Avian Influenza A, “Human infections with avian influenza viruses have occurred most often after close contact with infected birds or highly contaminated environments, such as poultry farms or live bird markets Although the virus spreads easily between birds, it is not well adapted to mammals, including humans.”

Other residents think there are more benefits than concerns in the matter. “I’m in favour of backyard chickens in my area,” said Lisa Wood, resident of Paris “There are numerous environmental and health benefits provided by backyard chickens. They divert waste from landfills by consuming organic kitchen waste; their manure is among the best for fertilizing gardens and takes less time to compost than other types; they clear the yard of insects that destroy plants, including ticks that carry Lyme disease dangerous to humans ”

Other benefits including mental health, education, responsibility and understanding of where food comes from have also been mentioned by Nykorak and Wood alike

Currently, other large cities such as Guelph, Burlington, Kitchener-Waterloo, Brampton and others allow chickens to be kept in various plots with varying numbers.

“There really is no reason when comparing to these large Ontario cities for Brant County not to consider this,” said Nykorak.

Kiwanis Teddy Bear Picnic at Fairgrounds tomorrow

MEDIARELEASE - The Kiwanis

Club of Paris Brant is ramping up for its second annual Kiwanis Teddy Bear Picnic at the Paris Fairgrounds tomorrow from 1 pm to 3:30 pm.

The event will begin with a “Parade of the Stars” at 1 pm, lead by Parade Master-Doug the Great Kids entering into one of our contests will walk a very short route inside the fairground site where their submissions will be judged. The contests to be judged in the Parade are:

• Most Creatively Dressed Teddy

Bear

• Best Superhero Bear

• Best Dressed Matching Bear and Kid

Stuffed animals, other than Teddy Bears, are eligible also. Another contest that the kids would need to prepare for, before coming, is an Art Contest. Prizes will be awarded for the best Teddy Bear piece of art in two age categories: ages 5 and under and ages 6-8 years old. The artwork should be turned in to Shelly Gracey at the RE/MAX tent by as close to 1:30 pm as possible. Please have the child’s name, age, and a phone number of an accompanying adult, on the back.

There will also be a prize for the Teddy that travelled the furthest

distance. All entrants should go to the Kiwanis Tent by 2:30 pm, with an accompanying adult who has ID showing their address.

Any child that brings their favourite stuffie with them to the fairgrounds should go to see Karla & Jim Stonham at the Peak Realty tent, before 2 pm, to enter a ballot for a wonderful draw prize.

Other games and prize sponsors include: the Kiwanis Club of ParisBrant, Baby B Home, The Calendar Club, Canadian Tire, Mario’s Pizza, Rosie’s Ice Cream Shop and Sobeys Paris.

Our Headline performer will be The Barry O Kidshow There will be games and entertainment galore throughout the site: Face Painting, Pin the Heart on the Teddy, Crafts and Stories under the Brant County Library Tent; Medical check-ups performed on the Bears and

Stuffies by St. John Ambulance, our Firefighters with a Truck, Dave Kerr of Bears and Buddies, and a Candy Bear guessing contest (our take on Jellybeans).

While admission is free, you might want to bring a little cash because there will be a couple of Snack vendors on site, What’s the Scoop and Ruby’s Street Eatz. An area will be set up for those who prefer to bring their own picnic along with any accompanying blankets, chairs, etc..

Without the help of our Major Sponsors, we would not be bringing this all to you We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kidtastic Adventures, Brant Family Eye Care, Paris Dental Centre, Cooperators – McNaughton Agency, Shelly Gracey - RE/MAX, TD Canada Trust, TopRock Construction, Krista Ure-Shaw, Jim & Karla Stonham - Peak Realty.

Library kicks off summer with wide variety of programming –

By Carolina Saenz

If you’re looking to stay active this summer, the County of Brant Public Library has you covered. With a wide variety of summer events and free programs for all ages, there are choices for the whole family to enjoy. Make this summer memorable by participating and connecting with your community Registration for summer programs begins Saturday June 10th at 10 am online at www.brantlibrary.ca/calendar in person, or by phone at 519-442-2433 Kids, tweens, and teens programs include the popular TD Summer Reading Club, where participants can improve their reading skills and get rewards and prizes It is Canada’s biggest bilingual summer reading program for kids of all ages, interests, and abilities. Registration starts on Thursday June 29th Visit wwwbrantlibraryca/tdsrc for more details.

Little ones can participate in Storytime and early literacy programs with their parent or caregiver from July to August These include the ‘Let’s Get Ready for Kindergarten!’ program geared for ages 3 to 5 years and offered at the Paris Branch on Thursdays and Fridays at 10:30 am from July 6th to August 25th. The ‘Family Storytime’ provides fun an interactive stories, songs, rhymes, and early literacy activities for children of all ages at the Paris Branch on Wednesdays at 11 am from July 5th to August 23rd. Get outdoorsy at the ‘Outdoor Family Storytime’ program offered at the Scotland-Oakland Branch on Wednesdays at 11 am from July 5th to August 23rd. The ‘Read! Sing ! Play!’ all-ages program is drop-in at the Paris Branch on Tuesdays at 10:30 am from July 4th to August 22nd The ‘Summer Afternoon Drop-In’ will be held at the Burford Branch on Thursdays and at the ScotlandOakland Branch on Wednesdays at 2 pm on various dates throughout July and August. ‘Sensory Storytime’ promotes literacy skills for children of all ages through interactive stories, songs, rhymes, and

sensory activities, and will be held at the Burford Branch on Fridays at 10:30am from August 4th to 25th. The EarlyON Drop-In program will continue to provide babies and children from birth to 6 years old with an opportunity to explore art, music, movement, and sensory play with an Early Childhood Educator. It is held every Tuesday from 1:30 to 3:30 pm, July and August, at the Paris Branch School-age programs for children aged seven and up will include weekly interactive activities, stories, and creative art projects, held at the Burford, St George, and Paris Branches. For full program descriptions and to register, visit www.brantlibrary.ca/calendar Have a sweet tooth? Register for the ‘Sweet Treats

here’s a look!

Submitted photo

From Around the World’ program geared towards school-aged children and their parent/caregiver. This virtual program is offered via Zoom on Thursdays at 2pm from July 13th to August 24th, and offers participants an opportunity to learn how to make sweet treats from around the world in their own kitchen For each cooking lesson, recipe cards and an invite to Zoom will be provided.

Tweens and teens have a ton of programs to choose from. The ‘Take and Make @ Home’ program runs in July and August and provides supplies for participants to create amazing crafts using simple materials. Featured workshops include Bubble Art and Finger Knitted Scarf for tweens ages 10 and up, and a NoSew-T-Shirt Tote and Mini Acrylic Pour for teens ages 13 and up Register online, and be notified when craft kits are available for pick up. The Dungeons and Dragons Miniature Painting program and the ‘Magic: the Gathering Club’will also be meeting this summer “We’re so excited to kick off summer events and connect with everyone at our library branches and out in the community. We have an incredible line-up of summer programs and reading clubs for all age groups. Expect a great mix of outdoor, in-person, and virtual events designed to help people connect with others, enjoy new experiences, and inspire a love of reading”, shares Katherine Bell, Marketing and

In addition to their summer programs, the Seed Library is once again offering a wide variety of seeds for all those interested in starting gardening projects Borrow seeds, plant them, and harvest seeds to return back to the library in the fall. Visit wwwbrantlibraryca/seedlibrary for more information Also check out gardening tools and children’s hand tools available at brantlibrary.ca/gear

A special thanks goes out to the Paris Friends of the Library for successfully organizing and running the Trail of Toonies event this past weekend. “Lots of people out and about enjoying the weather last weekend helped the Paris Friends of the Library raise over $1,000 for their Trail of Toonies event. We truly appreciate the efforts of the Friends group in their support of our endeavours at the Library”, writes Gary Jermy, Community Outreach Coordinator at the County of Brant Public Library.

With a great summer ahead, make sure you enjoy the great variety of programs the library has to offer. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to take photos and participate in their photo contests throughout June! Visit wwwengagebrant ca/CelebrateJune

Communications Assistant at the County of Brant Public Library.

Friends of the Paris Library assist residents with the “Trail of Toonies” fundraiser downtown last Saturday. Photos: Steve Howes

Applications for WIW $500 Scholarships are now open!

Women Inspiring Women WI Paris announced this week that their annual scholarship award applications are now open. Each year the local chapter funds two $500 scholarships to high school or mature students who are attending post secondary institutes (in 2023). Applications are due by 11:59 pm Friday, July 14 and must be emailed to wiwwischolarships@gmail.com

Learn more online, or get a copy of the application form and requirements at www.womeninspiring womenwi.ca

GRCA awarding best management practices on rural properties

The Grand River Conservation Authority has announced funding is available for Cover Crop projects. Eligible applicants could take home a $1,500 incentive for best management practices

The Rural Water Quality Program available to qualified landowners in the County of Brant to share the cost of selected best management practices that improve and protect ground and surface water quality Please note an Environmental Farm Plan is required.

Grant rates under the Rural Water Quality Program may be adjusted if combined with other funding programs, for a total grant of 80% up to 100%.

The program is funded by the County of Brant. To learn more contact the Rural Water Quality Program staff at 519-621-2763 ext 2278 or by email at ruralwater@grandriver.ca

Learn more about the program and eligible funding online.

Friday's Pride Flag Raising Ceremony at Council Chambers!

Also thank you to our friends at the County of Brant Public Library for hosting a number of activities after the ceremony. For more Pride activities in Brant visit www.brant.ca/Pride Photos: County of Brant

Aries: March 21 - April 19 (Fire) –You have a competitive streak lately, time to rein in that energy and put it to better use Your career could use some energy to help bring more financial security and do not get me started on the neglect your love life has been suffering You need to get creative in order to bring that spark back.

Taurus: April 20 - May 20 (Earth) –

You will want to do a budget this week. You want to acquire great wealth, but you will feel a pull by the weekend to buy things You have no problem creating more wealth when you put your mind to it, now you just must find a way to save it You are swayed easily by an attractive person, and they could cost you a lot

Gemini: May 21 - June 20 (Air) – You feel like you have been cleansing your emotional state You have had some difficult talk with loved ones lately, some have been freeing and others just awkward. These talks must happen. You are preparing yourself for greater things and you must cut away all that is not serving you

Cancer: June 21 – July 22 22 (Water) – You are very charming this week You will buy some new things because you want to look your best. When you feel attractive you radiate confidence. You will also be seeking compliments and attention, go out this weekend and have some fun, show them all what you got

Leo: July 23 - August 22 (Fire) –

You will be craving attention by midweek You can use this energy to your advantage Put it all into working hard at work and in your relationship to show everyone your worth and how amazing you really are This way you get tons of love and possibly see financial increase too Work it to get all you want

Virgo: August 23 - September 22 (Earth) – You feel overwhelmed and underappreciated You have to find a way to show the people at your work what you are capable of Then you need to go home and remind them about all your best qualities. You also should take some time to remind yourself that you are pretty great

Libra: September 23 - October 22 (Air) - You are doing a reset on your life this week You have spent the last couple weeks feeling let down and disappointed You must try and find a way to relax Write a list of all the things that make you smile and then gather some help from loved ones to complete that list.

Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 (Water) – You do so much for others and this week you will get some long-deserved recognition You then need to put some time aside to make a greater effort in your love life, plan something romantic for your partner and you. Work has become tedious You may need a day to play hooky and re-focus

Sagittarius: November 22December 21 (Fire) – You have said yes to many people lately and now you will be running yourself into the ground this week to fulfill all your promises You better start the week off by finding some people who can help you to accomplish this all. Then rest and learn the work the art of saying ‘no. ’

Capricorn: December 22 - January 19 (Earth) – You always have good instincts, but this week they are even more on the money Trust yourself to make the big decisions that you have been putting off lately. You will make a huge decision also in regard to your love life, will you be all in or all out??

Aquarius: January 20 – February 18 (Air) – People will be asking for your advice and guidance a lot this week and even though you seem to be struggling in taking your own great advice, you will be able to solve all other people's problems You have been putting off a needed conversation when it comes to your love life, things are about to get awkward if you keep avoiding this.

Pisces: February 19 - March 20 (Water) – You are feeling exhausted mind, body and soul. This will leave you very moody. Your loved ones will feel the brunt of your emotional rollercoaster. The only way to stop the cycle is to recognize that you are doing it Then you will need to reflect and find the source Emotional stuff will be hitting you hard by mid-week, see if you can go away on the weekend

Horoscopes with Tina Graziano Energy Reader

Tina Graziano was born an energy reader. She uses her gifts to heal and guide others as a life coach. If you need support and insight in life, contact Tina for an energy reading

Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford

For Saturday, June 3, 2023 Spider-Man: Across the