The Paris Independent for Saturday June 8th, 2024

BIKE RODEO TODAY! See Page 11.

Softball Champs!

AAHBN details Pages 17-18

Veterans and members of the Paris Branch 29 Legion took part in a special wreathlaying ceremony at the Paris Cenotaph on Thursday June 6th, in commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. Pictured left to right are Earl MacDonald Service Officer, Henry Foster WW2 Veteran, Donald MacLeod President Branch 29 and Steven Kitchen Poppy Chairman. More photos on page 5. Read Chris’ Paris Past column about D Day on pages 15-16. Photo submitted by Donald MacLeod

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

Managing Editor

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

June 8, 2024

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

PARIS

TODAY! ANNUAL BIKE RODEO- Hosted by the Paris Community Safety Group on Saturday June 8 at 10 am at the Syl Apps Community Centre parking lot Free event for all kids 12 and under. Bring your bikes and safety helmets for some fun obstacle courses and tips on bike safety. There will be lot’s prizes and a chance to win a free bike! STORY ON PAGE 11.

TODAY! PARIS SUPER PULL- Saturday, June 8th at 3 pm at the Paris Fairgrounds Hear the roar of the engines as the tractors and modified trucks compete in pulls along the track. Food trucks, marketplace and a beer garden will be onsite to add to the fun. Must be over age 19 to enter the beer garden. $20 online, or $25 at the gate. Gates open at 3pm, first pull starts at 4pm. More information available online.

TODAY! PET PALOOZA – Saturday, June 8 from 10 am to 4 pm at the Brantford Civic Centre 50+ Pet related vendors, Dog Entertainment presented by The Flying Fur-Balls, Dog Parkour with trainer Tawnya Casey, Speedy Paws Mobile Dog Treadmill, Honeys Bistro serving up some delicious meals and snacks ( addition $) Kidszone presented by Kidtastic Adventures including Ashlee's Bouncy Castle Bounce House, Jungle Jamz Reptiles, Triple C Farms( with goats, bunnies, donkey, mini horse and an alpaca). More info online

COMMUNITY SAFETY GROUP

MEETING - Monday June 10, 2024, at 7:00 pm in the Wilkin Board Room at Cowan Community Health Hub 25 Curtis Ave. N. Paris, Ontario. The guest speaker will be from the Fire Department and reviewing Water Safety. New members are always welcome.

BRANT

COUNTY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB

MEETING - Tuesday June 11, 2024, at 10 am at the Sherwood Restaurant. The guest speaker is Former MP Phil McColeman New members are always welcome.

BEVERAGE WITH THE BADGE – Tuesday, June 11th at 1:30 pm at Burford, St. George and Paris County of Brant Library branches. Paris Branch – 12 William Street on main floor. Come meet your local OPP, ask them questions, chat, and have a delicious beverage. Everyone welcome.

Paris Legion, 70 William Street

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

COMMUNITY SOUP LUNCHEON - Thursday June 13th 12:00pm - 1:00pm at St Paul's United Church Auditorium.

AUTO SHOW BROUGHT TO YOU BY SMOKEY

ESTATES AND RPM MAGAZINE- Saturday, June

15th at 118 Powerline Rd, Brantford from 10 am to 2 pm

All years, makes and models welcome. Cost is by donation at the vehicle registration table. Swap meet vendor space available for $25. Proceeds of event go to Smokey Hollow Estates Social Club For more information contact Tim Biro at 519-770-8632

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!

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

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.

Veterans lay wreaths in Remembrance of Normandy, 80 years ago

“Today we honour all the brave soldiers that stormed the beach on D-Day. Their heroic effort was the turning point, that would eventually bring the war to an end. There were many that sacrificed their lives that day,” said Paris Legion Branch 29 President Donald MacLeod following a special wreathe laying ceremony at the Cenotaph on June 6th. In attendance, among Legion members and area residents, was Paris’ last living World War 2 veteran, Henry Foster (pictured inset above). Henry was an 18year-old member of the Royal Canadian Navy during World Ward 2. He was on a supply ship in the English Channel while Canadian troops stormed Normandy. This month, council voted in support of renaming West River Lane to Henry Foster Street in honour of the Paris veteran. The Foster family lived near West River Lane when they first arrived in Paris over 50 years ago. This renaming is a heartfelt tribute to Mr. Foster's remarkable contributions and his enduring connection to our community. Remember D-Day as Paris Past columnist Chris Whelan recounts the significant battle in Canadian history on pages 15-16. Below Steve Kitchen lays a wreath. A total of three wreaths were left on the cenotaph – a Government of Canada wreath, a Royal Canadian Branch 29 wreath and one representing the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

Brant celebrates Pride month – kicks off month long education and celebration during flag raising ceremony

Above photo was taken during a flag raising ceremony behind council chambers on Monday, June 3 to officially launch Pride month. Also pictured is Rubyyy Jones along with Mabe, co-chairs of the Brant Pride committee. They are pictured at the first ever Brant Pride HISTORY event held at Paris District High School on May 24th. This year is the first ever Brant Pride celebration with festivities in all five wards of the County of Brant, over five months, centered around the various humanities and complexities of the 2SLGBTQIA+ identity. “The events are for all ages, are sober, as accessible as possible and highlight the true techni-colour of our community!” said Jones @BrantPride or BrantPride@gmail.com for more information.

Team Gary's Fundraising Walk Raises Thousands for Brain Tumour Research!

Photos by @blackmore.photography

By Chris Whelan

In a heartwarming display of community support, Team Gary embarked on a fundraising walk to raise money for the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada last Saturday. Led by Gary's wife, Heidi Wright, and organized by Sherry Collings, the event brought together friends, family, and wellwishers to contribute towards finding a cure for brain cancer. The walk, held in "Our Town," not only raised awareness but also showcased the unwavering determination to fight alongside Gary in his battle against brain cancer.

Heidi Wright, overwhelmed with emotion, expressed her gratitude and shared the immense impact the event had on her family After the walk, she spent the afternoon at the hospital with Gary and their daughters, reflecting on the morning filled with love, support, and camaraderie. Heidi admitted to being nervous in the days leading up to the event, anticipating the emotional wave that would wash over her upon seeing friends and familiar faces Her expectations were met, and she found solace in shedding tears of joy, describing it as a much-needed release. The outpouring of love and support from #TeamGary was tangible, reminding the family of the strength of their community.

Heidi extended her heartfelt appreciation to all those who generously donated to the cause, emphasizing the significance of their contributions in bringing researchers closer to finding a cure The funds raised will play a vital role in advancing brain cancer research, bringing hope to countless individuals affected by this devastating disease.

Continued on page 8

COMMUNITY

The event was not just an opportunity to donate, but also a chance for supporters to meet face-toface and personally connect with the cause. Heidi expressed her joy at seeing everyone gather, expressing her gratitude through warm hugs and heartfelt conversations. The presence of every individual who participated in the walk was a testament to their unwavering commitment to Gary's fight, his family, and the broader cause of ending brain tumours.

Sherry Collings, the driving force behind the walk, played a pivotal role in organizing the event with the help of close friends. She marveled at the incredible show of support from the community, highlighting the determination and resilience displayed by Team Gary. Through their collective efforts, the staggering amount of $5,488.00 was raised for brain cancer research, a significant contribution in the ongoing battle to #EndBrainTumours

The event was expertly captured by the talented lens of @blackmore.photography, preserving precious memories of the day's festivities. The photographs serve as a visual reminder of the unity and compassion demonstrated by Team Gary and their supporters, encapsulating the spirit of the event.

As the walk concluded, the resounding message of love, support, and dedication echoed throughout our community. The success of Team Gary's fundraising walk not only highlights the power of community but also provides hope for a future where brain tumours no longer pose a threat. The collective efforts of all those involved have brought the fight against brain cancer one step closer to victory.

For more information on the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada or to contribute to the cause, please visit their website at www.braintumour.ca

Canadian Tire helping Jumpstart interest in youth sports

By Casandra Turnbull

Paris Canadian Tire is hoping to Jumpstart interest in local youth sports opportunities by hosting a familyfriendly, one-day event later this month.

On Saturday, June 22nd from 12 pm to 4 pm, Canadian Tire staff is holding the fundraiser at the store to introduce families to a variety of different sports organizations and clubs operating here in town. The idea is to showcase what’s in this community, raise money for the Jumpstart program and help spark an interest in sports, where kids have an opportunity to try something new, develop skills and self-esteem, and meet new friends.

There’s no admission into this afternoon of family fun, however organizers will accept donations to go towards the Jumpstart program. Founded 2005, Jump Start encourages physical activity in kids and gives families facing financial barriers the chance to enroll their kids in sports, no matter the circumstances Jumpstart’s mandate is to give kids a sporting chance so that no kid is left out. Their vision is quite simple: Canada, where all kids have a chance to fulfill their dreams.

Jumpstart is a national charity with support and commitment from local communities, like Paris’ Canadian Tire. In fact, the Canadian Tire Corporation as a whole is Jumpstart’s biggest supporter, funding all the general administrative expenses of Jumpstart. That means 100% of customer donations, from events like this one, go directly to help kids.

“Not only are we hosting sports and rec groups (from the community), but we also want families to come out and make memories,” said Megan MacDonald, one of the event’s lead organizers and Canadian Tire Paris Store Manager. “We will having a bouncy castle, facepainting, food trucks, music and we will be raffling off a large prize,” she added. So don’t miss out on this free afternoon of family fun

and entertainment. Remember to bring some money for the food trucks and a small donation to Jumpstart to help all Paris kids get off the sidelines and into the game!

The afternoon will give families the chance to interact with representatives from the following sports clubs and organizations: Paris Minor Hockey, CORE Dance Studio, Paris Community Pool, Jason’s Wheelhouse, Girl Guides, Paris Tennis Club, Paris Curling Club, County of Brant Recreation Team, Paris Ringette Association, Paris Soccer Club, First Paris Scouts and Paris Figure Skating Club. The event is graciously sponsored by Thompson Printing, Paris Curling Club, Trans FRT McNamara, Brave Waves Swim School and River Realty Team. If you’d like to learn more about this event, become a sponsor or attend as a sports organization, email Megan at mmct043@gmail.com or call the store at 519-442-2312 ext. 382.

Lions at work!

Paris Lion Club members held their spring cleanup of its newly adopted stretch of roadway - Green Lane. Seven Lions participated in the cleanup and collected over seven bags of garbage along the route. The Lions Club normally performs two cleanups a year, once in the spring and again in the fall. The Paris Lions Club has participated in the County and previously Paris Adopt-a-Road program for over 20 years.

Lions Club of Paris collects 1,340 eyeglasses for third

world countries

Recently the Lions Club of Paris had an eye glass sorting session to go through the glasses that have been collected around Paris in the last 18 months. Members sorted 1340 eyeglasses and 220 pairs of lenses. Currently the Club has eyeglass donation boxes at eight area locations: Rest Acres Pharmacy, Rexall Pharmacy, Bank of Montreal, TD Bank, CIBC, Northville Pharmacy, Community Hub Pharmacy & Paris Pharmacy The donation boxes accept prescription, reading and sunglasses; they also accept lenses not in frames. The packaged glasses are taken to Woodstock to Day & Ross Transport who have partnered with Lions Clubs to ship them to CLERC – Canadian Lions Eyeglass Recycling Centre in Calgary Alberta. CLERC is celebrating its 25th year in providing quality eyeglasses to 3rd world countries. This is a milestone shared by all Lions clubs that have supported CLERC during this time. CLERC is a Lions of Canada initiative that profoundly touches more lives than any other project that Lions do CLERC has placed eyeglasses on 6 3 million faces in 103 countries around the world. It has partnered with Canadian Vision Care on two Optical Teaching Centres. In addition, over the past 8 years, CLERC has kept 992,000 lbs out of landfills allowing the plastic, glass and metal to become viable products.

Paris Lions Club Photo

Paris Lions Club Photo

Attention Kids! Test your bike safety knowledge at today’s Bike Rodeo!

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 takes place today only (June 8th) at 10 am and runs until noon at the Syl Apps Community Centre parking lot.

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 before them. 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 Last year’s winner was Franklin from Ayr.

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, member of the Paris Community Safety Group.

Stone became involved in the local safety group when her children, now grown, were attending North Ward School. As the Home and School Chair she

Attention Kids! A Bike Rodeo, hosted by the Paris Community Safety Group is taking place today June 8th at Syl Apps Community Centre parking lot, starting at 10 am. Have some fun and learn about bike safety!

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

Cornerstone Capital Financial Group announces their second annual Cornerstone Community Scholarship

This year’s application deadline is August 31, 2024

MEDIA

RELEASE -

Cornerstone Capital Financial Group is pleased to offer a $1,000 Scholarship to a graduating student from Brant, Haldimand, Six Nations, or Norfolk County.

Up to $1,000 will be awarded to one or more graduating students pursuing post-secondary education at a recognized institute, College, University, or Apprenticeship in Ontario. The scholarship will provide financial assistance to help with educational fees and or the cost of books.

To be eligible for the scholarship, the graduating student must have

successfully completed a minimum of one business class at the grades 11 or 12 level and submit an essay of no more than 500 words, answering the following question: “How would you use $100,000 to benefit your community?”. All eligible students who submit an application for the Cornerstone Community Scholarship and are planning to continue their education in September at a recognized post-secondary institution in Ontario will be eligible to apply for the scholarship.

Last year's recipient Doug Archer shared the following about his first year attending the University of Guelph, “One of my favourite memories of my first year was participating in the College Royal Beef Show. I got the chance to work with, train, and show a beef heifer at College Royal, a campus-wide open house. Getting hands-on experience with a live animal was really cool and helped reinforce a lot of the content I had learned in my classes. Thank you, Cornerstone Capital, for helping make this possible! I greatly appreciate your generosity and support of young people like myself as we pursue higher education.” For more information and to request the criteria and application package, contact the Cornerstone Capital Financial Group at info@cornerstonecfg.ca or call 519-753-9622. REMINDER: Applications for 2024 Cornerstone Community Scholarship must be received no later than Saturday, August 31, 2024, at 11:59 pm

Pictured from left to right: Peter Pomponio (Cornerstone), Douglas Archer (2023 recipient), Shannon McMannis (Cornerstone),Giovanni Petitti (Cornerstone) . Submitted photo

Welcoming new businesses to Paris!

F45 Training is the newest business to open in the plaza at 1070 Rest Acres Road, Paris. F45 offers innovative, high-intensity functional group workouts that are fast, fun and results-driven. On June 1st, Mayor David Bailey was on hand to help cut the ribbon and welcome the business to town. Learn more about this business online. Also on June 1st , Mayor Bailey stopped by the official opening of Grand Tour BBQ, located in the Wincey Mills Paris. While the business is new to Paris, odds are you’ve seen their food truck serving up some tasty, smokey treats at events in the area. Last year they debuted some menu items during a brief introduction at Scott’s Family Restaurant a few weeknights. Check them out online for more information!

Photo credit to Mayor David Bailey Facebook page

Paris Smile Cookie campaigns raise $21,866!

The Brant Community Healthcare Foundation shared this week that the 2024 Smile Cookie Campaign at the Tim Hortons restaurants in Paris - 151 Dundas St E, 1084 Rest Acres Rd and 304 Grand River St N, raised an incredible $21,866.12! The Foundation sent a thank-you to the Paris restaurant owners for their continued support of the BCHS Foundation and The Willett, Paris. Our sincere appreciation to the Tim Hortons teams and patrons that make this campaign so incredibly successful. Since 2005, the Smile Cookie Campaign has generated over $203,000 in contributions to benefit patient care. Proceeds have helped purchase essential patient equipment including a portable ultrasound, slit lamp, ECG machine, vital sign monitors, and imaging equipment.

BCHS Foundation Photo

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, and 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

All letters must be signed by the writer and are subject to editing for length and clarity. The opinions expressed in the letter are those of the writer, and not necessarily those of the Paris Independent. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, or completeness of this information. If you have an opinion to share, email your letters to stories@theparisindependent.com

Triumph and Sacrifice: The Heroic Canadian Forces of D-Day Remembered 80 years later

On June 6, 1944, the world witnessed an unprecedented event as 156,000 Allied soldiers embarked on a perilous mission to liberate Western Europe from Nazi Germany's clutches. Codenamed Operation Overlord, this audacious plan, known as D-Day, remains etched in history as the largest seaborne invasion ever undertaken. Among the brave men who stood alongside their American and British counterparts, 14,000 Canadian soldiers played a vital role in rewriting Europe's destiny.

Led by Canadian Lieutenant Colonel Ernest Adolphe Cote, these soldiers faced the daunting task of establishing a beachhead, capturing three coastal towns, and advancing 16 kilometers inland to secure the region west of the City of Caen. Spearheading the assault on Juno Beach were the Third Canadian Infantry Division and the Second Canadian Armoured Brigade, under the command of Major General R.F.L. Keller.

Every detail was meticulously planned to ensure the mission's success. Lt. Colonel Cote orchestrated the logistics for the

14,000 Canadian soldiers landing on Juno Beach. The Canadian troops underwent rigorous training in England for a year, unaware of the imminent battle they were about to face.

The Canadian forces were not alone in their endeavor. The Royal Canadian Navy and the Royal Canadian Air Force played crucial roles in supporting the invasion.

Eighty Royal Canadian Navy vessels, including destroyers HMCS Algonquin and HMCS Sioux, navigated the English Channel, providing vital support to the invading fleet. Additionally, ten minesweepers from the Royal Canadian Navy cleared the treacherous waters of hundreds of mines. In the skies above, 80 squadrons from the Royal

Canadian Air Force patrolled, guarding the ships and ensuring the safe passage of the 14,000 Canadian troops.

Despite meticulous planning, fate had other plans in store On June 5, unfavorable weather conditions forced the commanders to postpone the attack by one day As dusk settled on June 5, Canadian soldiers boarded their ships, unaware of the magnitude of the battle that awaited them.

As the ships sailed across the English Channel, soldiers broke open their sealed orders, revealing the true nature of their mission. The realization struck them they were about to embark on a head-to-head battle with the German forces.

Continued on page 16

LOCAL HISTORY

Amidst the darkness, the First Canadian Parachute Battalion descended from the skies, parachuting into enemy territory. However, not all reached their intended drop zones. Meanwhile, the Allied forces commenced their assault on the Normandy beaches. The soldiers were met with a hail of bullets as the landing craft gates swung open.

As the Canadian soldiers waded through chest-high water towards the shore, they faced fierce resistance from the entrenched German forces. Chaos reigned as smokescreens obscured visibility, and soldiers coped with unpredictable situations. The Regina Rifles, with the assistance of tanks from the First Hussars, managed to push off the beach and move towards their objective. The Royal Winnipeg Rifles encountered heavy gunfire but persevered, while the North Shore Regiment and the Queen's Own Rifles confronted an unscathed German gun encampment, enduring significant casualties.

Amidst the triumphs and setbacks, the Canadian soldiers exhibited unparalleled bravery and resilience. Lives were lost, sacrifices were made, but inch by inch, they advanced towards their objectives.

The sacrifices made by the Canadian forces on D-Day left an indelible mark on history The Queen's Own Rifles, despite facing overwhelming odds, demonstrated unwavering courage and

determination. Many soldiers lost their lives, but those who survived pushed forward with sheer determination, eventually capturing their objectives.

The Canadian forces' tenacity and heroism were not limited to the beaches alone. The Second Canadian Armoured Brigade played a crucial role in the subsequent battles. They engaged in intense combat with German forces, providing vital support to the infantry and helping to break through enemy lines.

By the end of D-Day, the Canadian forces had achieved remarkable success. They had secured their beachhead, captured the coastal towns, and advanced further inland than any other Allied force. Despite the heavy casualties suffered, the Canadians had accomplished their objectives and paved the way for the liberation of Western Europe

The significance of the Canadian contribution to D-Day cannot be

overstated. Their success on Juno Beach demonstrated the strength and determination of the Canadian forces Their bravery under fire and their ability to adapt to changing circumstances were instrumental in the overall success of Operation Overlord.

Today, the memory of the Canadian soldiers who fought on D-Day lives on. The Juno Beach Centre, located in Normandy, France, stands as a testament to their courage and sacrifice. It serves as a museum and memorial, preserving the legacy of the Canadian forces and educating visitors about the significance of DDay.

The heroic actions of the Canadian soldiers on D-Day remind us of the extraordinary feats that ordinary individuals can achieve in times of great adversity. Their triumph and sacrifice continue to inspire future generations, serving as a reminder of the courage and resilience needed to overcome monumental challenges.

Paris wins AABHN Softball Championship

Paris Sports Report with George Le Gresley

The girl's Panther softball team started the quarter-final championship with a match against Simcoe High School. Maddie Hallman and Lauren Markle combined their pitching skills to shut out the opposition and earn a 13-0 win As well as pitching 3 innings, Maddie Hallman hit an inside-the-park home run.

In the Semi-Final, the Paris side faced Pauline Johnson and grade 10 student Sydney Kipp was on the mound. Surprisingly, Sydney has pitched two or three games this year; but came out pitching on fire striking out 14 PJ batters and securing a 15-0 win

On the other side of the bracket, the St John’s Eagles having a 30-1 season cruised through their side of their quarter and semifinals and into the championship game against Paris. Since most of the players on both teams had played with or against each other in leagues over the years, plus the two teams were in different pools during the

above is the Paris Panthers Softball team that claimed the AABHN championship title on Thursday.

regular season they had not played each other during the high school season. Coming into the championship game, the Panther girls felt a little nervous about facing the PJ side.

The Eagles started the game by shutting out the Panthers in the top of the first. Maddie Hallman started the first inning on the mound for Paris and the first three batters were out, one striking out and the other two flying out to fielders

The second inning the Paris batters surprisingly went out 1,2,3 again being shut out two innings in a row and St John’s scoring a run and a 1-0

lead

In the third the Paris bats woke up, manufacturing runs by moving runners on singles and sacrifice bunts to take a 2-1 lead.

In the fourth inning, Maddie Hallman got her groove striking out three batters in a row and again the Panther side nickel and dimed to earn another run and a 3-1 lead.

The Panthers bats exploded in the top of the fifth inning, with Sydney Kipp’s bat hitting a ball deep to the fence and scoring a two-run insidethe-park home run.

Continued on page 18

Pictured

Photo by George Le Gresley

The team scored two more runs to take a 7-1 lead. Lauren Markle took over the pitcher’s mound at the bottom of the inning striking out three St. John’s hitters.

:

The top of the seventh inning the Paris High side scored one more run and St John’s had one last chance to tie or win the game and went down to defeat 8-1 and the Panthers winning the AABHN championship

When Coach Weaver stated that the team’s success is by “playing through whatever the situation is, whether if we’re down or up, we have strong pitching and defence and clutch hitting.”

Unfortunately for the team, there is no regional or provincial high school championships to pursue, as the provincial body is doing only slo-pitch. The team is continuing on this weekend, with a tournament in Woodstock against high schools in Western Ontario Goodluck Panthers!

Pictured at the top of the page is Sydney Kipp on the mound for Paris; above is catcher Harley Shuart, and to the right is Callie Grischow at bat. Paris beat St. John’s 8-1 in the AABHN final on June 6th .

Photos courtesy of Brielle Murray

Ball Haulers win first Rotary Satellite Club of Paris three-pitch tournament title

By Casandra Turnbull

Nearly three years since its formation, the Rotary Satellite Club of Paris is still going strong and building a visible presence in the community.

In fact, now that members have started to raise a considerable amount of funds through various projects and events over the last couple years, the 2024/2025 board will work on establishing its first official budget.

The Club’s most recent fundraiser was in the form a three-pitch tournament to officially kick off the start of the spring/summer. Teams travelled from as far as the

Niagara Region to compete in the one-day round robin tournament at Green Lane on May 26th .

“Everyone had a great time and was very impressed with the event,” said founding Rotary Satellite Club of Paris member Dale Hall. He confirmed more than $1,000 was raised at that event, where teams were guaranteed three games and lunch

“The three-pitch committee is looking forward to seeing what 2025 could have in store from a tournament perspective,” he added, alluding to the possibility of an annual tournament. At the end of the day the Cardinals and

The Rotary Satellite Club of Paris hosted a fundraising three pitch tournament at Green Lane on May 26th. Pictured to the left is the Ball Haulers who won the final game 14-4. Big thanks to the tournament’s sponsors (all local business owners): Sodexo, River Realty, Domino’s, Browndale Farm and No Frills Paris.

the Ball Haulers made it to the finals with the Ball Haulers prevailing. Both teams were from the area, confirmed Hall.

The Club’s next endeavour will be their first (twice annually) Fill-the-Truck Food Drive of the year on June 9th at Paris No Frills. “Big thanks to Jay’s No Frills for being such a strong supporter of our Fill-the-Truck event,” Hall acknowledged.

If you want to learn more about the Rotary Satellite Club of Paris, how to get involved or make a financial contribution to your community, visit them online here.

Gifts of the Heart: Nourishing Young Minds

The Power of 100

Presented by 100 People Who Care Brant

This month’s focus: Gifts of the Heart

AT THE BEGINNING OF EVERY GIVING CYCLE, MEMBERS OF THE LOCAL GIVING CIRCLE 100 PEOPLE WHO CARE BRANT ARE INVITED TO NOMINATE A CHARITY OR NON-PROFIT TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THE COLLECTIVE DONATIONS FROM OUR GROUP. IN THIS NEW MONTHLY COLUMN, WE WILL SHINE SOME LIGHT ON THE WORK AND COMMUNITY EVENTS OFFERED BY NOMINEES WHO HAVE NOT YET BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF OUR DONATIONS. JUNE’S FOCUS IS ON GIFTS OF THE HEART

Gifts of the Heart, an incorporated Canadian non-profit, harnesses the power of community-minded volunteers to tackle food insecurity among children in Brantford. Drawing support from neighbourhood associations like the Downtown Central Neighbourhood Associati on (DCNA), East Ward Echo Place Neighbourhood Association (EWEPNA), Branlyn Neighbourhood Associati on (BNA), and community members who believe in their mission, the organization has become a vital force in ensuring no child goes hungry at school

Founded by Jayme WilsonBelore, chair of the DCNA, Gifts of the Heart operated alongside

Gifts of the Heart volunteers are tackling food insecurity one school, one meal at a time. The organization has become a vital force in ensuring no child goes hungry at school!

DCNA, EWEPNA, and BNA from February 2021 until becoming an independent nonprofit in early 2023. The mission is clear: to nourish children's bodies so they can nourish their minds, laying the foundation for future community leaders and advocates.

The initiative began modestly in 2021 when a school principal requested seven dozen eggs to help feed students coming to school without food. The response from the community was overwhelming, quickly transforming the initial egg donation into a full-scale daily meal program. What started as a simple request evolved into

providing hot lunches five days a week, illustrating the community's remarkable support and commitment. Today, Gifts of the Heart serves 267 foodinsecure children across nine Grand Erie schools, delivering approximately 52,332 meals this academic year alone. This represents an increase of over 2,000 meals from last year and more than 13,000 meals since the program's inception. The program's reach spans Brantford, ensuring children across various neighborhoods receive nutritious meals.

Continued on page 21

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

In addition to the school lunch program, Gifts of the Heart launched a weekend bag initiative in 2021 to support children experiencing acute food insecurity at home. Every Friday, children receive bags of food to ensure they and their families have enough to eat over the weekend. Initially supporting 45 children and their families, this program has become an essential resource.

As the 2021-2022 school year ended, concerns about food access during the summer led to the creation of a summer support program. With family consent, Gifts of the Heart assessed needs and provided food bins to 24 families, a program that has continued year-round. For single parents and families facing poverty, these bins, delivered directly to their doorsteps, have provided much-needed relief, improving family dynamics and reducing stress. Gifts of the Heart operates entirely on volunteer power, relying on individuals who dedicate their time and resources purely out of kindness. The organization constantly seeks like-minded volunteers to join their cause, whether in the kitchen, for deliveries, fundraising, or

Far left, Paul MacDougall and the RBC King George Rd Crew during RBC’s kitchen take over. Gifts of the Heart volunteers prepare nutritious and delicious meals for children in area schools. Pictured to the left is volunteer Marilyn Hayward. All photos submitted

serving on the board of directors. Even an hour a week can make a significant difference Those unable to volunteer can contribute through financial, food, or equipment donations. The organization continuously needs to purchase food and supplies, maintain kitchen equipment, and cover packaging costs. Sharing their story and spreading the word about their mission can also help garner support. For groups looking for a community project, Gifts of the Heart offers "Kitchen Takeovers," where teams can help prepare and cook meals for students, providing a rewarding teambuilding experience To get involved or learn more, connect with Gifts of the Heart on Facebook and Instagram at "Gifts of the Heart Brantford," or email giftsoftheheartbrantford@gmail com You can also reach the founder, Jayme Wilson-Belore, at 226374-6044. This summer, find Gifts of the Heart at Pride in the Park and every Thursday night at Movies in the Square where they will be collecting donations and non-perishable food items. Together, we can ensure no child in Brantford goes hungry and every child has the opportunity to thrive

We are 100 People Who Care Brant, a giving circle dedicated to serving Brant County, Brantford, and Six Nations of the Grand River communities. We unite local individuals to enact social change by pooling our donations, and collectively selecting charities to support. Members contribute three times annually, for as little as $25 per cycle, for a total of $75 a year. Join us to witness the powerful outcome when 100 or more people join forces in a collective act of generosity, effecting change locally. Discover how you can amplify your individual contribution through #powerof100. Connect with us to learn more!

Paris woman’s return to Malta focuses on the Island Country’s history

By Karon Sinning

And we are off again!

Heading back to Malta, I decided to change up my flights. This with the hope of making flight connections and not ending up in Poland (nothing wrong with Warsaw, just didn’t plan on going there) I discovered Icelandair. Icelandair allows (and encourages) no fee stopovers on their flights to Europe. These can be from one to thirteen days. The travel time from Toronto to Reykjavik is 5 ½ hours, which to me sounded better than 9 hours to Rome. But with all good things, there is a caveat…you depart Toronto at 9 pm, arriving 6 am their time, 2 am our time!

Karon and Marie, of Paris, standing where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet in Iceland.

Doing some research and chatting with people about Iceland only increased my desire to see it for myself. One warning though, it is very expensive. Abowl of soup and a tea on my credit card revealed itself at $28 dollars. A dinner of fish and chips for two…$100.

We had pre-booked our transportation from the airport into Reykjavik on the Flybus. This was easy to do online and departs Keflavik Airport every 20 minutes or so While Keflavik is a smaller airport in comparison with other international airports, for two tired old ladies lugging our suitcases, it was a bit of a challenge. Undaunted, we asked for directions and found the bus!

The scenery on the 45-minute drive into Reykjavik was very bleak; much like February and early March at home As we got nearer to the city, mountains became visible. The temperature while we were there hovered between 58C

My friend Marie had gotten a recommendation for accommodation. So, thinking that was a safer bet than a random selection, we chose Room with a View, in Reykjavik.

This is an apartment type spot, similar to an Airbnb. We were given to believe the Flybus would leave us a short, five-minute walk to the Room, up a short hill Well, pushing our luggage up that hill on uneven pavement was more than a challenge! There are no directions in English and there is more than one side street on the way up the hill.

After turning on what I thought was the right street, we were lost. Showing a couple of city workers our accommodation booking address, I asked if they knew where we were going.

Thank goodness I had a printed copy and I was able to show them the address rather than trying to pronounce it. They were very pleasant and spoke very good English.

Continued on page 23

TRAVEL COLUMN

We were on the right street but had turned the wrong way. Once we found it, the name on the building was Mani Apartments, no where did we see Room with a View. The lobby door was open, so we ventured in. We had been emailed our room number and door code. Now inside, there were two elevators at our disposal. One looked like a regular elevator; the other, with a door handle, appeared more like a service elevator. Our Room was on the third floor and only the service elevator went to that floor This door was locked. Luckily, a couple got off that one and we were able to confirm Room with a View was here. The door only unlocked when the elevator was on this floor we were tired!

Once we got off at the 3rd floor, it took a minute to work the door code but finally we were in! First glance the room appeared to be fine It was really quite large with beds at one end, a kitchen at the other, and a TV and couch in the middle. We had been expecting two bedrooms, but this would work too We were booked for three nights, €982.

As we arrived well before the 3 pm check-in time, we requested early access and were able to do this…€45. This is what they call a self-service accommodation. There was a dishwasher, stove and coffee maker. But all other supplies would need to be bought by us.

To the left, Gozo, the second largest of the Maltese islands. Below, the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland.

All Photos provided by

Luckily there was a small convenience store on the corner, so we were able to get coffee and milk. It would now be about 9-10 am in Iceland, 5-6 am for us. We had a Golden Circle Tour booked the next day so we needed to get with this time zone as quickly as possible

We found a very nice little breakfast spot almost right across the road from us. This place allowed cash payments, while most only allow payment with credit cards.

Continued on page 24

Karon Sinning

TRAVEL COLUMN

After a nice meal, we decided to wander. Parts of the street were blocked to traffic for pedestrian use but did allow delivery vehicles. There were several souvenir shops along the way, so we browsed. We also found a proper grocery store and picked up a couple more breakfast items

Properly exhausted by now, we planned for an early night to be well rested for our tour the next morning. Well the best laid plans

At 8 pm the music started booming. Thinking it was another guest, we complained to the booking agent via email and they sent their maintenance fellow to tell us we were directly above a bar, with live music 7 days a week! This was totally unacceptable. After major back and forth, they offered us a room on the fourth floor which we checked out the next morning

Now a little bit smarter, we looked out the window to see two other bars cross the street. We opted to stay where we were They do have strict noise bylaws here, so the booming had to stop at 11 pm, but based on our jet lag, it was not a pleasant time.

The tour we booked for Saturday turned out to be excellent. It was a 7-8 hour tour of the Golden Circle area including the Gullfoss waterfall, geysers, Þingvallavatn National Park which includes Iceland's largest lake of the same name. The tour guide provided excellent narration throughout and there were ample stops along the way Sunday was a bit of a day to relax as we had a 7:45 am departure for England on Monday.

Instead of dragging our suitcases down the hill at 4 am for our trip to the airport, we booked a taxi This picked us up a few feet from our accommodation. Much easier for us to manoeuvre. However, it was much more expensive, $187 for the two of us, compared to $45 for the Flybus. Given our level of exhaustion, money well spent.

From Iceland we were off to an overnight at Gatwick Airport, Travelodge. Travelodge Hotels were a recommendation of my cousin Liz in England and we were more than pleased with this place While it was a little difficult to find the shuttle bus to the hotel, once we decided a cab was in order,

things went very smoothly. The price was £19 for the cab.

After a great night's sleep, we were finally on our way to Malta! Friends met us at the airport and drove us to the condo Ahh it felt like coming home for me!

As I’ve been to Malta several times now, along with the ‘must sees,’ I’d decided to try different things with Marie. She is a big history buff so that would be our focus. Along with the rich history of the Knights of St. John, Malta and Gozo have many megalithic temples which predate the Egyptian pyramids. These include the Ġgantija (pronounced Ji-gantia) temples on Gozo The Ta' Ħaġrat temple in Mġarr, the Skorba temple, Ħaġar Qim temple, Mnajdra temples which lie in a hollow 500 metres from Ħaġar Qim and the Tarxien temple complex which is found some 400 metres to the east of the Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni.

Continued on page 25

Karon and Marie enjoyed a delightful boat tour of Blue Grotto

COMMUNITY

Halfway through our stay, we have already visited three of these sites and by far the most impressive has been Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples

Finding these sites can be somewhat daunting but as ever, getting a Maltese taxi (ecabs or Bolt) driver always helps. We were on our way to the Blue Grotto when the driver recommended these temples to us. They were definitely on my list and finding out they were not far from Blue Grotto made the decision easy After a delightful boat tour of Blue Grotto and a nice lunch, we were off to the temples.

Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples (3600–3200 BC) lie along a beautiful stretch of coastline, so it’s easy to imagine why this location was chosen Ħaġar Qim is on a hill above Mnajdra and is easily twice its size The sheer scale of the stone used to build the temples boggles the mind…at least my mind! Both of these sites appeared as hills (buried) prior to their discovery but now, along with all the temples here, are protected UNESCO World Heritage Sites Both sites are covered with huge tarp structures to protect them from the elements. We then took a little trip to Gozo, the second largest of the Maltese islands. Comino being the smallest. Having previously stayed in Victoria, the capital of Gozo, I opted to try Marsalforn, a small village on the northern coast of Gozo Our accommodation was the sister hotel of Casa Gemelli in Victoria, so I had confidence it would be good, and I was not disappointed.

In Gozo, we chose the Hop-on, Hop-off bus tour. This allowed us to visit multiple sites as we were really only here for one full day We visited the Citadel in Victoria, Xlendi Bay for lunch and the Ġgantija temple

Travelling is always a learning experience and this time was no exception. While our stay at the Maria Giovanna Guest House was lovely, getting on this bus tour in Marsalforn shortened our tour by two hours

We were just able to visit these three sites and literally had to flag down the final tour bus of the day on the road! After being reminded “this was not a stop”, we were allowed on. While it wouldn’t have been a disaster; we would have had to get a taxi, we had already paid €22 each for this tour

The next day saw us returning to Malta on the Gozo Channel Ferry. Of note for the ferry, walk-on passengers only pay when they return to Malta. The fee, you might ask, was a very reasonable €4.65!

That’s all for now!

Karon Sinning is a Paris woman living her best life as she travels around the world and truly enjoys all the sights the world has to offer. Karon has been kind enough to journal details from her trips and take Paris Independent readers on the journey with her. Stay tuned for more of her adventures.

Movie at Lions Park in recognition of deafblind awareness month

Sensity Deafblind and Sensory Network of Canada, is celebrating #DeafblindAwarenesMonth in June. Last weekend, at Lions Park, Paris, people gathered for a special viewing of ‘The Miracle Worker: The Story of Helen Keller’. Sensity Paris, staff and residents were very grateful for everyone who came out to watch, learn and uplift the deafblind community and sent a big thank-you to the County of Brant for helping sponsor the event.

Yoga Tips for Beginners: Where Do I Start?

Yoga with Heidi Pfleger

The idea of starting to do yoga, attending a class and doing bendy poses can be intimidating but it doesn’t need to be. Everyone has a starting point in their journey of yoga and EVERY BODY is different, which makes participation in yoga allinclusive.

Yoga is, essentially, all about learning more about yourself and getting your ego out of the way It’s also about stilling your mind It’s hard to do, much less enjoy, a practice when you’re in your head and constantly criticizing yourself for the poses that you can’t do and/or are wondering if you are doing things ‘right. ’ I struggled for years with doing the ‘perfect practice,’ and often wondered if I was doing things ‘right ’ Needless to say, while I did get a great deal out of doing the poses, I wasn’t always experiencing the peace and serenity one typically seeks from a yoga practice. Working with many teachers over the years and

Yoga is, essentially, all about learning more about yourself and getting your ego out of the way. It’s also about stilling your mind.

playing with my own practice eventually enabled me to enjoy my time on the mat. It has also deepened my level of calmness, self-acceptance and contentment

Here are a few tips to help you start your yogic journey:

1. Approach your practice as if you were a child. This advice was a game changer for me and I think it is the most important tip. For years, I was taking myself and my practice too seriously. The result was that I was being too hard on myself. I would look at poses and think, “There’s no way I will ever be able to do this!” Needless to say, I felt more discouraged than joyful with such a mindset. Children don’t typically think that way. They see a pose and try it. Their genuine curiosity exceeds their fear or feelings of inadequacy If they can’t do it, they try again and usually laugh when they flounder My practice dramatically changed when I lightened up like a child and made my practice playful

2. Keep your practice short and simple. Set aside a realistic time for yourself and start off with just a few poses to get familiar with. Ten to twenty minutes is usually realistic for most people and working on just a few poses won’t leave you feeling overwhelmed. You may even find, if you keep things short and simple, that you will end up doing thirty or forty minutes of yoga. That equates to progress!

3. Watch some yoga videos. There are tons of videos on Youtube geared for beginners and many of them are less than half an hour.

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Watching some of these videos is a great way to get acquainted with beginner poses and sequences Watching some of these videos is a great way to get acquainted with beginner poses and sequences. After watching some, you will find a few that resonate with you. Try doing a few 10 or 20 minute sequences and see how you feel You may find yourself wanting to do a short flow on a regular basis and this ‘at home’ practice will help build your confidence in joining in-person classes.

4. Dress comfortably, get a good sticky/non-slip mat and avoid mirrors. Yoga is all about getting out of your ego. It’s not about being fashionable or how you look when doing a pose. Both of these things are external experiences and the journey of yoga is meant to be an internal one Striving for comfort and practicing some modesty will help deepen your yoga experience A good quality sticky mat that doesn’t make your hands or feet slip will also help with your practice.

5. Attend a class. Having done a few sequences on your own, you may now feel ready to take part in an actual in person class. Again, this is progress! Most studios offer gentle beginner classes which is the perfect place to start. If you have any questions about the poses, speak with the teacher after class. They are there to help you in your

journey. There are also some things to consider when attending an inperson class (we will examine Yoga Class Etiquette next week!).

6. Set an intention for your practice. Setting a purpose or desire for your practice can help keep you focused on the present moment. It can also help to keep your mind from drifting away to random thoughts and distractions. Intentions can vary and change for each session. For one practice, you might set an intention to find some peace and serenity. Another day, you might be seeking relief from a sore neck On yet another day, you might be hoping to receive some answers for some situation you’ve been dealing with. There is also an option to dedicate your practice to someone you care about. The possibilities are endless. In my own experience, the intention I set is often met. When it isn’t, it doesn’t really matter as there is something else quite wonderful that was received in its place.

7. Honor yourself and your body. As mentioned earlier, everyone has a starting point in their journey of yoga and EVERY BODY is different. Your yogic journey should be a kind, loving and compassionate one that honors where you are at in any given moment and foregoes making any comparisons with where others in class are at.

One of the yoga yamas (ethical and moral codes to live by) is “Ahimsa” which translates to non-violence in thought, word and action. Practicing acceptance of, as well as kindness and compassion to, yourself, both on and off the mat, will enhance your sense of peace and wellbeing. Also be sure to modify the poses for your body. Again, speak with the teacher for ideas on how to better support yourself in your practice.

8. Focus on strength rather than flexibility. The most common comment I get when people find out that I teach yoga is, “I’d like to do yoga but I’m not very flexible.” Most folks seem to expect me to say, “That’s too bad” and are surprised to hear me say, “Great! You’re perfect for yoga!” Why is this? If a person is anything like I was when I started yoga (very flexible), they will eventually hit a ‘wall’and will get stuck in their practice as they don’t have the strength to maintain a pose.

Continued on page 28

HEALTHY LIVING

I had to start my practice all over again in my twenties when I realized that, while I was very bendy, I was not benefitting from the longer holds that required strength. In short, I learned that I needed to focus on building strength first (especially in my legs) if I wanted to progress with more bendy and advanced poses

9. Avoid drinking water during your practice. While it is important to stay hydrated, drinking water during your practice can affect what’s meant to be happening inside your body. A vigourous sequence will heat up your body and that temperature should be maintained throughout the practice. Drinking water during a yoga flow will cool down your temperature and affect your experience. It is much better to drink water about an hour before your practice, and then drink water again after you’ve finished your sequence.

10. ALWAYS focus on your breath. There are many breathing rhythms in yoga but the most important one is to be aware that you are breathing while doing a pose and/or sequence of poses. It is amazing to discover, once you bring mindfulness of breath into your practice, just how often you tend to hold your breath. The general rule is that you should always be able to breathe

comfortably and regularly when doing yoga. Don’t get caught up on whether or not your breathing ‘right. ’ Your body intuitively knows how it should breathe but, for those of you who want a basic guide, you should (and will likely naturally find) that you exhale when moving into a pose and inhale when coming out of a pose The breathing should always be easy and natural when holding a pose.

11. ALWAYS start and end your practice with Savasana. Also known as the Corpse or Sponge pose, Savasana is a pose you should never skip. In fact, no practice is complete without doing Savasana as this is where the real quieting of the mind and overall integration of body-mind-spirit occur. Time spent in Savasana shifts your body away from the sympathetic nervous system to the parasympathetic side, enabling you to experience a sense of calm at both the start and end of your practice. Considered a restorative pose, it will bring your entire body into deep relaxation and therapeutic healing Taking 5 or 10 minutes at the end of your practice to come to rest in Savasana will help you process and assimilate all that you experienced ‘on the mat’ in your body, your mind and your spirit. While I know it is tempting to quickly get off the mat when the

poses are done and move into the day’s demands, Savasana is an actual pose (probably the hardest one to do) and not taking the time to do it properly to end your practice and leave you feeling rattled for hours after practice.

In the words of yoga teacher, Eoin Finn, “Missing Savasana is like taking the time to mix a cake batter but not stick it in the oven to bake.” I agree with Finn and believe these tips serve as ingredients to making an incredible yoga experience. Just make sure you take the time to do Savasana and bake. Enjoy!

Next week we will look at best Yoga etiquette practices, stay tuned!

Heidi Pfleger has been a Yoga Teacher and Wellness Coach for more than 30 years and a student of yoga since the age of five. Born and raised on a farm in the Paris area, Heidi ventured further afield to study Yoga around the world in her twenties and has since been sharing her experiences and continuing in her studies both on and off the mat. Heidi offers regular yoga classes and individual sessions as well as wellness coaching sessions and retreats throughout the year. For more information on her programs, contact Heidi at 519-755-1447.

ASTROLOGY

Aries: March 21 - April 19 (Fire) –Your partner should be willing to help you explore your more unusual and kinky sexual desires Creative breakthroughs can help you develop your artistic or musical potential and find your unique style. This is an excellent time to experiment with a new hairstyle, clothes and accessories

Taurus: April 20 - May 20 (Earth) - your emotions, imagination, and creativity are heightened Friends may come to you for comfort or a shoulder to cry on Creative and artistic work such as music, composition, and video is favored. You may receive inspiration to make a breakthrough in a project which has caused frustration

Gemini: May 21 - June 20 (Air)A heavy work or study load may be causing stress while also limiting your time with loved ones A lack of intimacy and emotional support can cause sadness The best way to handle this emotionally demanding time is with self-control, patience, dedication, trust, loyalty, and forgiveness.

Cancer: June 21 – July 22 22 (Water) - You could make new friends who are younger, exciting or from different backgrounds than your own All your senses will be heightened, allowing you to perceive things in greater detail. Future-oriented thinking and openmindedness will lead to original and ingenious discoveries. Studies and exams should go well

Leo: July 23 - August 22 (Fire) –This is a great time to discuss relationship issues because you will be in touch with your feelings Inner calm and balance give you the confidence to break the ice and make new friends. But you may need more emotional reassurance from familiar objects, people, and places.

Virgo: August 23 - September 22 (Earth) – You will be sensitive to the desires of others and will enjoy being of service to them This can result in acts of charity and a sensual massage. You have ample soothing and healing energy to share and should feel no guilt about any boost to your ego.

Libra: September 23 - October 22 (Air) - Your thinking will be rational and logical; you will hear all the necessary details, read the fine print, and speak clearly and concisely Getting your point across so well makes this a good time for bargaining, selling, convincing and debating.

Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 (Water) – While others procrastinate and make excuses, you can use your initiative to tackle any task with energy, enthusiasm, and optimism You can be competitive and assertive while maintaining harmony Good timing and instincts make this a good weekend for taking risks.

Sagittarius: November 22December 21 (Fire) – Heightened self-awareness and openmindedness mean you can be comfortable being seen as different or eccentric Flashes of insight and vivid dreams can lead to creative breakthroughs and discoveries This is an excellent weekend to make changes and start trends. They will happen quickly and relatively smoothly. You can adapt very well to new conditions.

Capricorn: December 22 - January 19 (Earth) – You may change your opinions and swing from one conclusion to the other Making concrete decisions with any confidence will be difficult, and you probably should not even try to More information is needed that is not yet available. Flexibility is required during this weekend of adjustment.

Aquarius: January 20 –February 18 (Air) – Unexpected news may come your way and lead to exciting new opportunities. This is a good time to gain higher awareness and experimentation, which leads to exciting discoveries about yourself and others New people may enter your life and would likely be unusual or exciting in some way

Pisces: February 19 - March 20 (Water) – You may become more willful and independent but in a generally positive frame of mind. New people may enter your life who are unusual or exciting in some way. Unexpected news may lead to exciting new opportunities. Trust your intuition to make quick decisions. The good luck you experience this week comes from increased optimism, strong instincts, initiative, and a willingness to take risks.

Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford For Saturday, June 8, 2024

Bad Boys: Ride or Die

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

10:00p.m.

The Garfield Movie

Standard 11:40a.m. 2:10p.m. 4:45p.m.

7:20p.m. 9:50p.m.

3D 12:50p.m. 4:00p.m.

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

Standard 11:30a.m. 2:50p.m. 6:15p.m.

9:35p.m.

The Watchers

Standard 1:40p.m. 4:20p.m. 7:00p.m.

9:45p.m.

Standard 1:00p.m. 3:50p.m.

6:50p.m. 9:30p.m.

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes Standard 11:50a.m. 3:10p.m.

6:30p.m. 9:40p.m.

The Fall Guy Standard 12:30p.m. 3:30p.m. 6:40p.m. 9:55p.m.

The Strangers: Chapter 1 Standard 6:45p.m. 9:10p.m.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Standard 11:00a.m.

NOW PLAYING GODZILLA X KONG THE NEW EMPIRE AND FURIOSA A MAD MAX SAGA GATES OPEN AT 8pm MOVIES START AT DUSK (9:20)

Now Open 4 Nights a Week

Thurs. – Sun. CAR LOAD

Thursdays $20 Hwy