The Paris Independent for Saturday March 16th, 2024

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

Michelle

George

Rubyyy

Stephen

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

OPTIMIST YOUTH DANCE - The Paris Optimist Club will hold its monthly Youth Dance on Friday March 22, 2024. The dance is for students in grades 5 to 8 only. Grade 9 and older students are welcome to attend as volunteers. The DJ begins the Dance at 7:00 pm and it ends at 10:00 pm. Volunteers must arrive at 6:45 pm. The Dance is held at the Syl Apps Community Centre, 51 William Street in Paris with adult chaperones. Entry fee is $5.00 with a concession booth for pop, chips, candy and pizza. All proceeds support the Paris Optimist Club and its support of the youth of our community. For further information call 226-802-5063 or 519-442-5227.

BOTTLE DRIVE COLLECTION ALERT- 1st Paris Scouts is collecting on March 23 from 1 pm to 5 pm. More information online @1stparisscouts. See the full story on page 13.

AUTHOR EVENTS AT THE LIBRARY – Hosted by the County of Brant Library - Explore the art of writing with critically acclaimed author Mariam Pirbhai! Friday, March 29, 2024, 2 PM at the Paris Library Branch, more info: https://brantlibraryevanced info/signup/EventDetails?EventI d=12927&backTo=Calendar&startDate=2024/03/01

SPRINGTIME IN FRANCE – The St George Legion Branch 605 is hosting a fundraising event on March 22nd for service dogs for Vets suffering from PTSD. Enjoy dinner with Chef D from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Public event – dinner choices include Chicken Kiev or Beef Bourguignon. Limited seating, contact Leslie Hendrickson at 519-212-6667 or Fiona bell 519-7173507 to purchase your tickets

March

16,

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

BLUE JAYS HOME OPENER FREE TAIL-GATE-

At the Gaslight District at 64 Grand Ave S in Cambridge on Monday, April 8 from 6 pm to 11 pm. No tickets, no entry fee! Rain or shine Blue Jays live in the Big Screen, everyone welcome. More information available online.

PARIS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY MEETING -

April 3rd, 2024, at the Paris Fairgrounds; social time starts at 7 pm. Meeting at 7:30 PM. Our guest speakers are Kirsten McCarthy and Pam MacDonald, Master Gardeners from Halton, and their topic is “Bird’s Eye View of your Garden”. This will be a fun evening. Come on out for a very informative evening We welcome visitors. Time to join your local Garden Club!

MUSIC IN THE FELLOWSHIP HALL: ONION

April 6 & 7, 2024, 139 Silver Street at the Paris Fairgrounds. Admission is $7 daily or $8 for the weekend pass Kids 12 and under are free Crystals, jewellery, minerals, fossils, kids table, bead and jewellery suppliers and silent auctions.

EASTER SUNDAY EGG HUNT!

Sunday, March 31st , at 10 am at Paris Community Church (Presbyterian) at 164 Grand River St N. Plan to arrive by 9:50 so we can assist the children with bags and name tags before the egg hunt begins promptly at 10:00 The eggs contain nutfree chocolate –ingredient list available. Coffee, juice boxes and amazing baked goods will also be served. Easter Celebration Service will begin at 10:30am

EASTER CELEBRATION

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Join us this Easter weekend to celebrate Easter at Sojourn Church (112 Scott Ave) on Saturday, March 30th at 9 am!

EASTER EVENTS

As a church this is the most important day of the year, as we celebrate the most important event in all of history. This free event includes an Easter Egg Hunt, Bouncy Castles, Wood Craft with Organized Kaos, Face Painting, snacks, and more Bring the whole

family! More information available online.

10TH ANNUAL EASTER AT ADDIE’S (GOOD FRIDAY EASTER EGG HUNT FOR KIDS)

–

Friday, March 29th at Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead from 10 am to 2

pm. Cost is $25 for a family of 4. Bring your Easter basket for the hunt, enjoy the petting zoo and take part in egg-cellent fun and games. For more information call 519-4483873. Advance tickets can be purchased online through Event Brite

11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Councillors say NO to backyard chickens

By Casandra Turnbull

After 10 months of discussion with passionate pleas on both sides of the argument, in a narrow 6-5 margin, members of the planning committee voted against allowing backyard chickens in the County of Brant

The final decision, which must be ratified by council, came during Tuesday night’s Planning and Development committee meeting, however, the topic started in May of last year when a delegation to the administration and Operations Committee encouraged councillors to ask staff to prepare options to permit chickens in residential areas for consideration Staff brought four possible options to the Agricultural Advisory Committee in October and those options were also presented to the Planning and Development Committee in November. Of the options presented, councillors directed staff to proceed with option number three, which would allow chickens in all residential areas, subject to the review of further information and regulations.

Staff was set to draft the new ‘Backyard Hen By-Law,’ which would see an amendment to the county’s existing Animal Control By-Law and Comprehensive Zoning By-Law, but before completing that draft, staff wanted to provide councillors with a project update, more regulation information, suggested limitations and the plan for a public engagement overview.

Councillors voted against a new Backyard Hen By-law on Tuesday, but public consultation is still open until March 29th. You can share your opinion on the EnageBrant website.

Of the top concern from County staff was the risk chickens pose to the town’s municipal drinking water sources, particularly the source water protection areas, wellhead protection areas and areas with high Nitrate levels. The Risk Management Official for the County of Brant suggested chickens should be prohibited in these areas Among the prohibited areas would be north end of Paris to protect the Gilbert well head County Staff consulted the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation, and Parks (MOECP) on the protection of private drinking water sources in non-urban residential areas. There were pages of staff recommended limitations, which you can read online here.

In the end, councillors Jennifer Kyle, John MacAlpine, Lukas Oakley, Steve Howes and Christine Garneau all voted in favour of the Backyard Hen By-Law. Councillors John Bell, John Peirce, Robert Chambers, David Miller, Brian Coleman and Mayor David Bailey all voted against the By-Law. Despite the official ‘no’ from councillors the decision must be ratified by council following a public engagement campaign. You can have your say through the County’s EngageBrant website here, and you can watch Tuesday’s meeting online here Public engagement will close on March 29th .

County of Brant introduces a Stormwater Utility Program

Proposed long-term plan could come with new line item on your property tax bill

By Casandra Turnbull

Hot on the heels of an approved 8 7% property tax increase, The County of Brant is proposing a Stormwater Utility Program that could put another monthly charge on your property tax bill.

The news was released last week, along with information on the long-term plan to manage stormwater in the face of climate change and rising costs due to aging infrastructure and advancements surrounding stormwater maintenance technology

Taxpayer feedback from two public consultation open houses will help county staff shape the long-term plan to create this new pay-per-use utility program.

County of Brant staff will host public information sessions where displays will further explain the scope of the plan and why they feel it will be beneficial for residents as the community grows. The first open house is scheduled on March 20th , from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the Burford Community Centre and another one will take place on March 25th from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the TF Warren Cainsville Community Centre. There are no planned open houses in Paris. An audio/video presentation will begin at 6:30 pm on both dates and staff will be on-hand for discussion and questions.

“The idea of a storm water utility is to properly plan for infrastructure maintenance and replacement. In a growing municipality there is new infrastructure to maintain every year and rigorous planning is required to keep the system maintained and in compliance with Provincial regulations,” explained Rob Walton, General Manager of Operations

Currently, most of the stormwater funding comes from the County’s general tax levy and the Rural Drainage Act The total budget of $525,000 is expected to rise to $1,000,000 over time to deal with the increased costs of aging infrastructure, climate change and the looming costs of cleaning storm water ponds

Providing a new and adequate funding model ensures stormwater management activities are proactive, not reactive, according to a staff report.

Also noted in staff report RPT-103-23, collecting a small fee across the urban drainage areas and then using this funding in a manner like water and wastewater utilities is a sound business and asset management decision.

You can click here to find out if you’re in the settlement area and would be subject to the tax charge, if approved by council. It is proposed that all residential properties with less than one acre of land, within the outlined settlement areas, pay a fixed rate of $12 a month (or $144 / year) Commercial properties equal to or less than an acre could be charged a fixed rate of $21.34 a month (or $256.08 / year). Larger residential and commercial properties will pay a fixed rate dependent on several variables, outlined on the EngageBrant FAQs However, a rebate program is being reviewed for Industrial, Commercial, Institutional, and Multi-Residential properties greater than 0.4 ha in size. Vacant (undeveloped properties), agricultural properties and cemeteries are exempt.

Both the EngageBrant website and the staff issued report have deemed this utility program as a vital investment in the future as Brant takes on new projects to reduce flooding, improve water quality, and adapt to a changing climate.

The stormwater utility charge, if approved, would apply to residents who directly benefit from the county operated and maintained stormwater infrastructure

Continued on page 8

There are significant projects outlined in the Paris Flood Mitigation Master Plan, which remain unfunded, so money collected from this proposed utility program could also help fund those flood mitigation projects. Recognizing the scope of any flood mitigation project, the report as outlines that significant funding from upper levels of government will also be required.

"A stormwater utility is not only needed but crucial for the sustainable management of the County of Brant's stormwater,” said County of Brant General Manager of Operations, Rob Walton. “It will enable us to

responsibly fund critical projects, such as building and maintaining stormwater infrastructure, implementing green infrastructure solutions, and enable us to protect our environment, public health, and property from the impacts of stormwater runoff.”

This utility type funding model is becoming more common across Ontario municipalities One of the first municipalities to adopt a stormwater management fee was the City of London in the mid-1990s with the intent of providing a stable funding source to maintain its stormwater infrastructure, to reduce the amount of combined stormwater and sanitary

sewers, and to improve overall water quality. London has spent nearly $40 million since 2008 to separate 50kms of combined sewers.

The County of Brant’s stormwater program will be further developed and finalized following the public consultation period and upcoming open houses.

If you can’t make it to the in-person open houses, online engagement, including a survey, will be available until April 5th . Visit the EngageBrant website, take the survey and share your opinion here.

Support Your Local Newspaper with a Patreon Subscription

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Overcoming industry challenges and paving the way for a thriving future

By Chris Whelan

In a world where traditional newspapers struggle to stay afloat, one passionate entrepreneur and a team of dedicated individuals are defying the odds, creating an upand-coming online digital newspaper that is steadily gaining momentum. This is the story of an entrepreneur who refused to let his local community go without a voice, and Casandra Turnbull (nee Bellefeuille), the former editor of a beloved local paper that fell victim to corporate greed

As the owner of a small business in our community, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact when our local paper was shut down. It was a loss not only for the residents but also for the vibrant spirit that thrived within our town. Determined to fill this void and provide our community with a reliable source of news, I approached Casandra Turnbull, a seasoned editor who had dedicated years of her life to the now-defunct local paper.

Casandra, having witnessed the demise of quality journalism at the hands of rival newspapers and a large media corporation, was eager to embark on a new adventure that would restore the integrity and importance of community journalism. We shared a vision of

As an online newspaper, our publication has a lot of great features you can’t get in a printed newspaper. One such feature is the ability to access any edition without much hassle. Go ahead and click on each of the front pages pictured above. You’ll notice one simple click brings you to the online edition for that week. Looking back has never been so easy!

empowering our town, and together we set out on a mission to create a digital newspaper that would serve as a beacon of truth and connection for our readers

With limited resources but an abundance of passion, our small team of volunteers rolled up our sleeves and got to work We knew it wouldn't be easy. The digital landscape was littered with failed attempts and declining revenues But we believed that hard work, dedication, and a commitment to quality local journalism would attract email subscribers and advertisers who would see the immense value in focused, targeted advertising linked to online content While the established news media struggles to adapt, we saw an

opportunity. We fully embraced the digital revolution, recognizing the transformative power it held. We understood that the internet could be our ally, allowing us to publish and distribute our newspaper at minimal cost. We tapped into the potential of digital media, offering our readers a localized and reliable source of information that resonated with their lives.

As we began delivering our digital newspaper, the response was overwhelming. Our content struck a chord with the community, offering them stories that reflected their experiences, concerns, and aspirations.

Continued on page 10

We are fostering trust, actively engaging with our audience through social media and other digital platforms. We listen to their feedback, adjusting our approach, and continually striving to improve our offerings.

Businesses in our community are beginning to recognize the value of advertising in a platform that directly reaches their target audience. They are seeing the effectiveness of data-driven advertising and the ability to measure its impact Our online newspaper is becoming the go-to choice for local marketing campaigns, attracting advertisers who seek the precision and reach that other media can no longer provide.

Today, our online digital newspaper is on an upward trajectory, growing and expanding with each passing day. We have proven that with perseverance, innovation, and dedication to our community, an up-andcoming newspaper can thrive in the everchanging media landscape. Our journey is far from over, and we are excited about the future that lies ahead

As the world continues to embrace the digital revolution, our online newspaper remains at the forefront, delivering quality journalism and community-focused content We are committed to being the voice of our

Here’s another cool feature you can’t find in a printed newspaper. Click on the video to the left. Notice we’ve turned this editorial into a YouTube video.

The Paris Independent has the capability of linking videos within our publication. Check out another video below on Facebook. It’s one of our most highly viewed videos with over 400 likes. What did you think of Paris 40 years ago?

community, providing the news and information that our readers need and deserve. We believe that by staying true to our principles and continually adapting to the evolving needs of our readers and advertisers, our online newspaper will continue to grow and flourish.

In a world where traditional newspapers struggle to survive, our up-and-coming online digital newspaper stands as a testament to the power of determination, community support, and the unwavering belief in the importance of local journalism Together, we are building a future where hard work, resilience, and a commitment to quality can pave the way for continued success and growth.

Construction of new Lawn Bowling Clubhouse and Community centre underway

County announces fundraising campaign is appealing for major donors

County of Brant, ON – The County of Brant has launched a fundraising campaign for a new community centre in Paris

The Community Centre is also the clubhouse for the Paris Lawn Bowling Club It will replace the existing 75-year-old Clubhouse that was built in 1948. The building was eventually turned over to the Town of Paris for $1 when membership dwindled, and the lawn bowling club could no longer afford the upkeep in 1986. Plans to rebuild the aging facility and open it to the community as a multi-use building, similar to the new TF Warren Cainsville Community Centre, were announced in 2022. The fundraising campaign was officially launched a couple months ago

“By investing in the $400,000 fundraising campaign, you are investing in an inclusive, supportive, and vibrant community that values the contributions and well-being of our entire population,” said County of Brant Mayor David

Fundraising is officially underway for the new 2,055 square foot Lawn Bowling Clubhouse and Community Centre. The official launch of the $400,000 fundraising campaign came in the fall of 2023. The Fundraising Campaign will cover any campaign expenses, including the Capital Campaign Coordinator, and offset awarded construction costs of $1,600,000.

Bailey “Together, we will build a space where our residents can thrive, connect, and continue to enrich our communities for generations to come. The new community centre will proudly serve all residents and visitors to the County of Brant, as a whole ”

Located at 169 Grand River Street North, Paris and overlooking the Grand River, the building will provide room for indoor and outdoor recreation, social activities, family gatherings, cultural and arts activities and a host of other opportunities to enjoy. The community centre will also be home to the Paris Lawn Bowling Club and the Paris Seniors Club 99

Continued on page 12

The community centre will blend with the natural environment and has been designed to a net zero standard, meaning that the facility can produce as much clean energy as it consumes The single-story building will have approximately 2,055 square feet of total indoor space, including a stunning multipurpose Great Room with capacity for 60 people, a feature wall memorabilia display case and a sleek kitchenette. In addition, the community centre will include an outdoor covered patio and barbeque space overlooking manicured lawns and eight (8) outdoor cabanas.

GTA General Contractors Ltd. was awarded the $1.6 million dollar construction tender.

The $400,000 fundraising campaign has been launched to help offset the total building costs The campaign working group is currently seeking major donors and those looking to build up their community.

“In this phase of the campaign, we are looking for supporters who are able to make a significant investment in the community,” said Bailey. “In the coming weeks, I will be making a special announcement about a very

generous gift the County is so grateful to have just received.”

There are several naming opportunities that remain available for the new community centre, and we invite those who are interested to contact the Capital Campaign Coordinator to discuss the possibilities.

To learn more, visit www.brant.ca/pariscommunit ycentre or call Angee Turnbull, CFRE, Capital Campaign Coordinator at 519-761-1129 or email angee.turnbull@brant.ca

St. George Apple Fest named to top 100 list

Provincial organization recognizes Ontario’s Best Festivals

MEDIA RELEASE - St. George, ON – Festivals and Events

Ontario (FEO) announced the 2024 Top 100 Festivals and Events in Ontario on February 28, at their “IMAGINE” 2024 conference.

This is the 9th year St George Apple Fest has won this prestigious award The Top 100 recipients represent festivals and events that excel within the industry

This award recognizes all the hard work that the talented volunteers put in to making the festival such an outstanding event

Approximately 27,000 people attended the event over 2 days resulting in a substantial economic boost for the St. George area. Everyone enjoys the small-town vibe, the unique vendors and of course, the apples.

The profits from St. George Apple Fest are put back into the community. After the 2023 festival, donations were made to local community organizations South Dumfries Historical Society, St. George Masonic Lodge, Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead and Brant County 4-H.

Come help us celebrate the 40th anniversary of the St. George Apple Fest on September 21 and 22, 2024 where there is “Something ‘a-peeling’for Everyone.”

Attendees enjoy some musical entertainment during the 2023 St. George Apple Fest. Check out this online review of the festival from our junior correspondent Stephen L.

Bottle drive collection will help fund Pairs Scouts headed to Canada’s largest Scout Camp in Haliburton this summer

By Casandra Turnbull

Paris Scouting groups are excited to return to a pre-Covid tradition where a week-long, youth-led experience will strengthen their bond with the great outdoors. This summer the 1st Paris Scout Troop & Venturer Company along with Brantford Scouts, Ventures and Rovers troops are travelling to the Haliburton Scout Reserve, Canada’s largest Scouts Canada camp. They will take in a fully selfcontained week-long adventure at one of the Reserve’s 23 campsites on its largest lake, Kennabi. Paris’ Scouting youth have ventured there

before, but not since the summer of 2019, so this return to nature and the all-encompassing activities it entails is generating some excitement locally. And who wouldn’t be excited with an agenda that will cover everything from canoeing to kayaking and sailing, wall climbing, archery, riflery, snorkelling, and paddle boarding! To help offset some of the costs of their journey to Haliburton, the 1st Paris Scouting groups are collecting empty liquor and beer bottles next Saturday, March 23 from 11 am to 4 pm.

If you have a collection of empties, basically anything that can be returned to the beer store, and you’re looking to perform a spring clean around your home, the Paris Scouts and Ventures will happily take them off your hands

Since there is a limited number of volunteers to collect the empties, the group is covering a specific area of Paris during this initial bottle drive. If you received a flyer in your mailbox, you’re in the collection zone so get those empties ready to go, for a good cause of course.

If you didn’t receive a flyer, but want to contribute, you can reach out by email to bottledrive@1stparisscouting.ca to arrange a drop off This drive will be the first of several planned for the next few months to help raise funds for the trip In an email to the Paris Independent, the 1st Paris Scouting organization wanted to send a huge thank-you to Paris and surrounding area for their continued support.

If you have some empties laying around and would like to help these young troops head to Haliburton for an experience of a lifetime, email bottledrive@1stparisscouting.ca to schedule a drop off. These young fellas sure appreciate your support!

The Legacy of Frank McCombs's Ice Cream Wagon Lives On

Step back in time to the idyllic summers of the late 1940s to the early-1970s, and you'll find a beloved figure in the town of Paris Frank McComb and his iconic ice cream wagon Frank McComb, a resident of Paris, faced adversity when he was paralyzed in his early 20s

However, driven by the need to support his young family, he opened a small tobacco shop on West River Street in the late 1930s

As the years went by, the shop grew into a thriving variety store, becoming a staple in the neighbourhood. In 1947, Frank embarked on a new venture that would cement his place in the hearts of Paris residents for years to come. He purchased an old bread wagon and a horse, transforming it into an ice cream wagon

The clip-clopping of hooves and the clanging of the horse's bell became a familiar sound, heralding the arrival of summer and drawing children to the streets in anticipation of Frank's delectable treats. His ice cream became immensely popular, establishing him as one of the most beloved individuals in town. Frank McCombs's ice cream wagon became an integral part of the fabric of Paris, a symbol of his determination and resilience

Despite his physical limitations, Frank's strong upper body allowed him to custom build not only a new ice cream wagon but also a barn to house his horses, Babe and Toni. The wagon's presence during the summer months became a cherished tradition, while in winter, Frank would hook his horses to a

sleigh, delighting his grandchildren with snowy rides along Grand River Street.

Retiring in 1973, Frank McCombs passed away just two years later, leaving behind a legacy that resonated with the townsfolk Recognizing the significance of Frank's ice cream wagon, his family generously donated it to the Paris Optimist Club after his passing. The wagon became a cherished feature of local Canada Day parades, evoking nostalgic memories for the community. In 1999, the wagon underwent refurbishment, and it continued to serve frosty delights at various local events, with the proceeds going towards the club's fundraising initiatives.

LOCAL HISTORY

In 2006, the ice cream wagon found its permanent home within the Paris Museum and Historical Society, thanks to the efforts of the Optimist members and Frank McCombs's grandchildren, Glenna Williams and Hank McCombs. With a sense of nostalgia, Glenna reminisced at the time, "I can still picture him sitting in there. I remember hoisting him up so he could embark on his route " Hank fondly recalled his early involvement, as he began helping his grandfather at the tender age of six, handing out ice cream to eager children who flocked to the wagon.

Though Frank McComb retired in 1973 and passed away in 1975, his memory lives on in the hearts of Paris residents. Hank fondly remarked, "Years after he died, I would run into someone who would say my name sounded

familiar. When I mentioned my grandfather, they would say, 'Oh yes, the ice cream man.' Everyone remembered him."

The significance of the ice cream wagon is not lost on Frank's family or the community. Its final placement in the care of the Paris Museum and Historical Society ensures its preservation as a cherished piece of Paris history. Glenna expressed her excitement at the time, stating, "It's a part of Paris history, so it's nice to know that it's here." Hank echoed her sentiments, eager to pass on the family legacy to his own grandchildren.

The Paris Optimist Club took great care of the wagon over the years, restoring it in 1999 and periodically maintaining it. While it is no longer featured in local parades due to its age, the wagon’s

functional state has been preserved. Recognizing its value as a source of joy and nostalgia, the Optimist members decided it was time for the ice cream wagon to be enjoyed by a wider audience. Marilyn McCulloch, an Optimist member, shared, "We didn't want it to sit in the barn storage any longer We want other people to get some enjoyment out of it "

Indeed, the legacy of Frank McCombs's ice cream wagon lives on, a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring impact of a simple joy shared with a community. In recent years visitors to the Paris Fair were able to gaze upon this treasured artifact, they are transported back to a bygone era, where the sound of hooves and the sweet taste of ice cream brought smiles to the faces of Paris residents, young and old.

U13 Team 1 playing for Intertown League A Championship title

By CasandraTurnbull

The Paris Minor Hockey Association’s U13 Team 1 is calling out for fan support as they head into the Intertown League ‘A’ Division Championships next week.

After an impressive 20-win, 5-loss and 3-tie regular season, the Wolfpack will face some tough competition against Waterford. Luckily for Paris, they’re no stranger to facing tough competition and beating the odds After all, they just beat the number one ranked Burford team in the semi-finals to earn a position in this championship series.

Paris and Waterford will come face to face in a battle of strengths and Coach Chris Hall believes Paris’ strengths will definitely give Waterford some difficulty.

“The ability to play at a fast pace for all three periods, has been the key to our success,” said Hall. Over the course of the season, his team has made great strides in overcoming some of their initial weaknesses, gaining a better understanding of positional play and making good passes.

Hall said he’s enjoyed watching the team gel this year. They’ve came together to face some tough competition, winning crucial games and proving they can win if they play together. The U13 Team 1 is fresh

of a tournament gold medal win in Stoney Creek last month. They dominated with 27 goals for and only 6 goals against and on the road to gold they won a game in triple overtime!

If they continue to play together, read the play, and position themselves to score, there’s a very good chance the team will bring home another pennant for the rafters!

Game one is Tuesday, March 19th in Waterford at 6 pm. Game two is on home ice on Thursday, March 21st at 7 pm at the Brant Sports Complex. If they win the first game on the road, they can claim the title in front of a hometown crowd Game 3, if required, will be in Waterford on March 26th at 6 p m Come on out and support your local Wolfpack!

SCOREBOARD MARCH 8 – MARCH 14

*U11 Rep Team sponsored by Pelton Transportation wins 6-2 against Ayr Flames (B)

*U13 Rep Team sponsored by Paris Optimists ties 3-3 against Platsville Rage

*U15 Rep Team sponsored by Comfort Plus Heating & Cooling wins 6-5 against Tavistock Titans

*U18 Rep Team sponsored by Paris Canadian Tire wins 2-1 against New Hamburg Huskies

*U9 Team 1 Aitchison loses 10-5 against Simcoe Warriors

*U9 MD Team sponsored by Desjardins Insurance wins 3-1 against New Hamburg Huskies

Figure skaters test out their skills

As the winter

is coming to

during the club’s Test Day Achieving

Wilson achieved her Diamond Dance – the Rhumba. Wilson also passed her Gold artistic.

Submitted Photos

PFS Club’s 60th anniversary Gala is just a week away; do you have tickets?

The Paris Figure Skating Club is celebrated its 60th anniversary this season and part of that celebration includes paying homage to its history and inviting alumni to return for a special Gala to celebrate on Saturday, March 23 There are two performances planned for the day – one in the afternoon and one in the evening – but between performances the Club will host a reception in the Lafarge Hall of the Brant Sports Complex for alumni to catch up and take a walk down memory lane Club members and executive are busy gathering history, combing through past photos and carnival guides to put on display

The Club’s growth over the last six decades has been remarkable, saidClub President Lisa Campbell What started with just two hours of ice time a week and one professional coach has evolved into a club that boasts of eight professional coaches who teach kids the fundamentals

of the sport over 15 hours of ice time on four different days of the week. The club, sponsored by Brant and Woodstock Skating Clubs in the 1960s, was officially granted Canadian Figure Skating Association membership in 1966/67. Today, they are still proud members of Skate Canada, as it was rebranded in 2000.

Most PFS club seasons end with a special Gala or Carnival. The newly founded club held the first-year end ice show called “Ice Capers,” on March 26, 1964 Eighty-five members skated in that Dutch-themed gala signifying the start of an annual tradition that would mark the end every year of lessons in the spring. It’s only fitting this 60th anniversary season also ends with a spectacular Ice Capers Gala titled ‘ABlast from the Past ’

For more information on show times, or to get your tickets, visit The Paris Figure Skating Club online.

season

a close Paris Figure skaters put their practiced dance skills to the test recently

Star 6-7 dances were: Ella Ballard - Ten Fox - 6A, Kailey Fair - Ten Fox –6A, Madelyn Tapp - European - 6B, Breanne Pike - European - 6B , Cassie Hoo - Keats Foxtrot - 7A, Janine Smith - Harris Tango – 7B, Abby MacDonald - Harris Tango – 7B, Edie Cowan - American - 7C. Achieving Star 8-9 dances were: Edie Cowan - Rocker - 8B and Sara Coulter - Blues - 9B. Erin Plaquet passed her Cha Cha Star 10A dance test, while Camryn

Look - They did it again!

Paris curlers accomplish rare feat twice in a month!

It happened again! Twice in two weeks at the Paris Curling Club. One of the hardest things to do in curling is to score a perfect end - an 8-ender as they call it. Requiring a perfect mix of skill and luck, it is accomplished when one team scores points with all 8 of their rocks thrown. To put it into perspective - in amateur golf, the odds of a hole-in-one is estimated at roughly 12,000 to 1; but in amateur curling, the odds of an 8-ender are estimated to be as high as 120,000 to 1. It is so rare in fact, that in the 180-year history of the Paris Curling Club, there have only been 20 recorded 8-Enders - until now. Last Friday evening, one team made it 21. A big congrats goes to the team of Jamie & Michelle Gilles, and Bryan & Tara Maude on their perfect end! Their team photo will be added to the Club's 8-Ender Wall of Fame!

Paris Curling Club photo & content

Make sure your child’s vaccination records are up

-to-date

School Board announces possible suspensions to begin on March 26

The Grand Erie District School Board issued emails to parents and caregivers on March 8th to advise that students who do not have proper proof of vaccinations could be suspended, starting March 26th . In Ontario, all school-enrolled children must provide public health with proof of immunization (or valid exemption for immunization) against the following 9 mandated diseases: Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Meningitis and Varicella (for those born in 2010 or later).

This school year, students born in 2014, 2015 and 2016 are the cohorts required to provide proof of immunization, according to the email communication. Without proof of vaccination or a valid exemption, suspensions could begin on March 26th and last for 20 days. Families with students that need to provide proof of immunization will have received a letter from the Brant County Health Unit.

If you are unsure of your child’s vaccination status, you are

encouraged to reach out to your family doctor or the BCHU. Parents and caregivers can review and update their child’s immunization record with the Health Unit by phone or at bchu org/emunization or contact their primary healthcare provider to receive any immunizations needed. Students can also receive any missing vaccines at the Health Unit by calling 519-753-4937 ext. 451 to make an appointment.

Confirmed measles case in Brantford-Brant area

The Brant County Health Unit also notified parents and caregivers last week that there was a confirmed case of measles in a child resident of Brantford-Brant. The illness was acquired during recent travel to Europe.

The Brant County Health Unit’s investigation determined there were no school-related exposures related to the individual

“We understand parents may have questions about what can be done to keep children safe, and what their child’s school will do if a case of measles is confirmed. The Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit and Brant County Health Unit continue to monitor the situation. At this point, in time, there has been no spread of measles locally,” said the email notice Measles is a highly contagious disease spreading in many parts of the world. Measles symptoms include a red rash, fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and fatigue. Symptoms can start anywhere from seven to 21 days after exposure. The rash starts on the face before spreading down over the body to the arms and

legs, lasting about 7-14 days

If you or your child are experiencing measles symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately to discuss follow-up recommendations. Do not attend work or school.

If you’re concerned about possible symptoms, call and inform your healthcare provider first before visiting them

Measles is a serious, but preventable illness. The measles vaccine (MMR) is effective in preventing measles after two doses Ensure you and your child’s immunization records are up to date with measles vaccinations.

You can submit or review vaccine records online by visiting bchu org/emunization

If you’d like to know more about measles, please visit this Canadian Public Health Services information sheet online

With clocks springing forward last weekend it is a great reminder that we have turned the corner from winter and that warmer weather is on its way.

With the warmer weather we tend to be more active too as we leave our winter hibernation habits and start getting outside more going for walks, doing gardening, and sitting on our decks just enjoying the sunshine and warm air.

Since you will be more active, it is a great time to make new goals for spring, as summer bodies were made in this season. If you are already starting to worry about putting your bathing suit on around a pool or by a beach this summer, why not set some small achievable goals now that are easy to implement and will help get you ready for the season of less clothes aka summer.

Little changes now will lead to big results in July as you are giving yourself 12 solid weeks to work on them rather than attempting to scramble in June with a crash diet and crazy workout routines prepping for your upcoming July vacay.

Instead of focusing on a number, pick a bathing suit or even a pair of shorts and a tank and put them on next week and take a picture and also note how you feel in them Then every 2 weeks do the same thing again and sure enough with the right changes you will start noticing that your clothes are feeling looser, less bloating is happening, and you are just standing a little taller in that

picture. Even if the scale moves at a snail's pace, having these pictures as proof that your small changes are working will be super motivating for you and you will place less emphasis on the number and more on the picture which is what people see

Take a look at what you are doing right now with your eating, your water intake and your movement and commit to one small change next week. Then, once you feel like you have made it a habit, add another, and continue like this until you have made these little tweaks part of your lifestyle You will then wake up July 1 not only ready to rock that bathing suit but more importantly feeling good inside as you have been nourishing your body well for the past three months.

Need help getting going? Please reach out via email or my social media accounts and I will be happy to set up a success call or give you some written tips on what to do to JUST START.

EMPLOYMENT NEWS

Brantford’s jobless rate remains below 5% for six straight months

BRANTFORD (March 8, 2024) –

The Brantford area labour market continues to be a bit of an anomaly compared to some of its neighbours, as well as Ontario and Canada.

To begin with, the Brantford-Brant jobless rate was unchanged in February, at 4.9%, while it increased in Hamilton, St. Catharines-Niagara, London, Ontario and Canada, according to Statistics Canada’s seasonally adjusted figures released Friday Canada’s jobless rate inched up to 5.8%, despite 41,000 job gains, while Ontario’s climbed to 6 5% Within a one-hour commute, only Guelph had a lower February unemployment rate than Brantford. And only Brantford has seen a jobless rate below 5% for 6 months straight.

“It’s tricky comparing the labour markets of communities, since each have some unique

characteristics, types of employers and workers,” said Danette Dalton, executive director of the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie. “Still, it’s a strength that Brantford has been able to buck some trends for months ”

A second anomaly in Brantford’s labour market over the last six months has been the relationship between population growth and employment growth, Dalton said. The main storyline regarding the labour force for months nationally and provincially has been that population growth has outpaced employment growth Since August, Canada’s working age population (those who are 15+ in age) has swelled by 527,000, while employment has grown by 183,000.

Ontario’s working age population has grown by 236,000 since August, but employment is only up 4,400.

Among neighbouring labour markets, only Brantford and Guelph have had employment gains above their population growth. Kitchener-CambridgeWaterloo job gains match population growth, but Hamilton, London and St. CatharinesNiagara have lagged behind.

“It’s a positive that Brantford’s employment gains have surged. Hopefully, that trend continues, and job seekers and employers gain greater confidence in the local economy,” Dalton said.

About 1,400 employers in Grand Erie were looking to hire in February, up 17% from January, according to Grand Erie Jobs, the planning board’s community online job board. However, actual postings were down slightly to 1,900.

Nominations are now open for the 2024 Salute to Brant Business Awards

County of Brant, ON – The County of Brant invites the community to nominate local businesses for the 2024 Salute to Brant BusinessAwards

“In Brant we are fortunate to have so many great businesses, and this event is an occasion to showcase the incredible success stories in our community,” said Zach Gable, Director of Economic Development and Tourism. “This year we have five (5) award categories including Agriculture, High Growth and Innovation, Good Times in Brant, the Sustainability Award and new for 2024 the Accessible BrantAward ”

The Salute to Brant Business event brings together leaders within the local business community, elected officials, community influencers, and various industry experts to celebrate the progress and achievements of businesses in the County of Brant and to share industry insights

More information on the Award Categories include:

•Brant Farms for All Agriculture Award: Recognizes an agriculture business or a business that directly supports the agriculture sector that has positively contributed to the agriculture sector and/or addresses

•challenges related to agriculture in Canada

•Brant Works High Growth and Innovation Award: Recognizes a business that has experienced significant growth over the last 24 months or has implemented innovative practices into their dayto-day operations.

•Good Times in Brant Award: Recognizes a business or organization that is in the tourism industry, or directly supports visitation to the County of Brant while creating a positive impact on the environment and the community.

•Our Future Brant Sustainability Award: Recognizes a business in the County of Brant that has implemented sustainable practices into their day-to-day practices.

•Accessible Brant Award: Recognizes a business, organization, event or program within the County of Brant business community that provides a positive contribution to preventing and removing physical barriers, providing exemplary customer service or creating meaningful opportunities through the respectful integration of people with disabilities into the workforce.

“We are happy to be adding the Accessible Brant Award for 2024,” said Gable. “Brant aims to be an inclusive community that is committed to improving the lives of

all residents. This award will bring a spotlight to those in our business community that are champions for achieving this goal.”

Nominations for the 2024 Salute to Brant Business Awards are now open and will close on May 31, 2024. We encourage those in the community to join us in celebrating local businesses by taking the time to submit a nomination. Selfnominations are also encouraged The Salute to Brant Business event will be held on September 26, 2024, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the TF Warren Group Cainsville Community Centre. Registration for the event will open this summer. For more information and to submit nominations, please visit www.brant.ca/Salute.

To stay up to date on event details and announcements follow Brant Economic Development on Facebook, X, and Instagram.

GrandBridge Energy announces two new Executive Leadership Team members

BRANTFORD – COUNTY OF BRANT - MEDIA RELEASE -

Sarah Hughes, President & CEO of GrandBridge Energy Inc., is pleased to welcome two new members to the GrandBridge Energy Executive Leadership Team, effective immediately.

Dan Molon has been appointed Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer. Tyler Tracey has been appointed Vice President, Customer Experience & Information Technology Services. “Both Dan and Tyler have a wealth of industry knowledge and experience and have made significant contributions to GrandBridge Energy. I am excited to welcome Dan and Tyler to the Executive Leadership Team and look forward to working closely with them to achieve our Vision and Mission and continue to execute our Five-Year Strategic Plan,” said Sarah Hughes, President & CEO, GrandBridge Energy.

‘In his role as Vice President, Finance & CFO, Dan will be responsible for strategic and financial leadership, including all aspects of corporate finance, treasury, taxation, investor relations, financial planning and analysis, financial and management reporting, enterprise risk management, and regulatory affairs. He will also lead the

development and implementation of GrandBridge Energy’s Environmental, Social and Governance Framework and Sustainability Reporting,” said Hughes.

Dan joined the organization in 2018 and has more than 10 years of progressive experience in Finance, Financial Planning and Analysis, and Regulatory Affairs within the energy sector. Dan is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CMA) and received a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from McMaster University

Tyler Tracey, Vice President, Customer Experience & ITS, will be responsible for strategic leadership and operational direction of the customer service experience and information technology services. “Tyler will be a key advisor on important initiatives to enhance the customer experience and develop information technology solutions and services that enable and empower our customers and employees,” added Hughes.

Tyler joined the organization in 2021 and has a breadth of industry, customer and information systems knowledge and experience, having been in industry since 2005. Tyler has a Masters of Business Administration in Sustainable Commerce from the Lang School

of Business and Economics, University of Guelph, a Bachelor of Arts, Honours degree from the University of Guelph, and a GISApplications Specialist Advanced Diploma from Sir Sandford Fleming College

“I look forward to collaborating with our new Executive Leadership Team members, and all of our employees, to be a leader in energy transformation and bridge communities to the energy future,” said Hughes.

GrandBridge Energy delivers safe and reliable electricity to 113,000 customers in the City of Brantford, the City of Cambridge, the Township of North Dumfries and the County of Brant GrandBridge Energy’s service territory spans approximately 636 square kilometres. GrandBridge Energy is committed to upholding strong governance practices, which are mobilized by a Board of Directors. Together, these board members ensure business practices and strategies are aligned with the objectives of the company, and they manage risks and leverage new opportunities. More information is available onlinegrandbridgeenergycom

The 2024 Community Grant applications are now open

MEDIA RELEASE County of Brant, ON – The County of Brant and the Brant Community Foundation are pleased to announce the opening of the 2024 County of Brant Community Grant Applications.

“We are thrilled to combine the granting expertise of the Brant Community Foundation with the County’s impactful Community Grants Program,” said Anne Marie Peirce, Executive Director for the Brant Community Foundation.

The County of Brant has awarded Community Grants for many years, historically as part of the budget process and more recently through the Community Grants Committee, which has allowed some separation between the budget allocation and the award processes.

At the conclusion of the 2023 Community Grants process, Council approved the creation of a Grants Ad Hoc Committee, to

review the Community Grants process in anticipation of the 2024 application window.

On December 19, 2023, Council approved a report from the Grants Ad Hoc Committee which presented a recommendation that the Brant Community Foundation deliver the County of Brant’s Grant program beginning in 2024.

“The Brant Community Foundation’s members have years of experience in reviewing and awarding grants, applying their familiarity with the various community groups and a knowledge of the communities, priorities and issues,” said Heather Boyd, General Manager of Corporate Services for the County of Brant.

“We believe this will be a great partnership for our Community Grants program and allow us to offer grants to our groups that need it the most ”

All County of Brant Community Grant Awards are done so on the basis of providing a one-time funding for the applicable budget year.

Applications will be accepted for the following:

*Operating Grants (maximum $5,000).

*Event Grant (maximum $5,000).

*Capital Project Grant (maximum $10,000).

Applications will be accepted by email to grants@brantcf ca until April 3, 2024 at 5:00 pm. Further information on the Community Grants and Eligibility Guidelines are available at www.brant.ca/grants.

ASTROLOGY

Aries: March 21 - April 19 (Fire) –Conscious awareness of your control and influence means you can be quietly content and proud of your achievements but not egoistic or boastful You should also have good relationships with people of power and influence

Taurus: April 20 - May 20 (Earth)

– New relationships are possible, but you will not be interested in one-night stands. A teacherstudent type relationship is possible, or there may be a marked age difference. A practical and common-sense approach helps solve any recent relationship difficulties

Gemini: May 21 - June 20 (Air)You will feel more driven to get ahead and reach your goals Relationships may seem more intense, but in a good way. This is an excellent time to seek assistance from bosses, other important people in your life, corporations, or government agencies

Cancer: June 21 – July 22 22

(Water) – Loyalty and devotion may be rewarded with greater respect and commitment, but displays of affection may take a back seat to serious issues and practicalities. You can rely on tact and good judgment if dating and may attract someone from a different age group Creatively, you can be very productive and give form to beauty and harmony

Leo: July 23 - August 22 (Fire) –People will be drawn to your strong presence and charisma, and there is no bad karma in taking advantage of this because important and influential people will genuinely want to team up with you for win-win situations Your magnetism and vital self-assurance are good omens for your love life

Virgo: August 23 - September 22

(Earth) – A non-threatening approach and magnetic attractiveness allow you to effectively motivate people without being forceful or bossy Feeling more romantic and sensual, you can attract an honest and compassionate partner or enjoy an erotic adventure with an existing partner

Libra: September 23 - October 22

(Air) - A talent for deep research and investigation enables you to uncover secrets and get to the bottom of any mysteries. This probing nature also applies at the psychological level So, this is a good time to break bad habits and resolve relationship difficulties Complex relationship dynamics will become more apparent to you

Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 (Water) – You are willing to sacrifice short-term gratification for the longterm good of a relationship. Your selfdiscipline extends to your finances, so this is a good time to save money, pay down debt, and make sensible investments in real estate, bonds, art, or jewelry

Sagittarius: November 22December 21 (Fire) – You can influence others without trying. You can use this increased power to propel yourself to outstanding achievements. This is helped by tremendous drive and determination fueled by a deep desire to make something of yourself

Capricorn: December 22 - January 19 (Earth) – True love is possible; even new friendships will have a strong karmic bond New relationships may be slow to fire up but will have a strong foundation, be faithful and enduring. Shopping for party needs, fashion, cosmetics, jewelry, and art will benefit from your eye for a bargain This is a good time to save money and invest in real estate

Aquarius: January 20 –February 18 (Air) – This week brings the ability to exert great power and influence over other people This can be especially helpful in reaching your goals, and many people could be positively affected Conscious awareness of your control and influence means you can be quietly content and proud of your achievements but not egoistic or boastful. You should also have good relationships with people of power and influence.

Pisces: February 19 - March 20 (Water) – A new romance could be with someone from a different age group and likely be a longlasting, soul-mate union Existing relationships enjoy closer bonding and stability If a relationship has been stressful lately, mutual respect and an eye for practical outcomes help you work through the problem and find a solution

For this Week are Brought To You

By: Astrology King

Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford

For Saturday, March 16, 2024

Kung Fu Panda 4 Standard 10:30a.m. 11:00a.m.

11:30a.m. 11:50a.m. 1:30p.m. 2:00p.m. 4:00p.m.4:30p.m. 7:00p.m.

3D 6:30p.m. 9:00p.m.

Dune: Part Two Standard 2:20p.m. 6:10p.m. 9:20p.m.

Imaginary Standard 1:40p.m. 4:20p.m. 6:50p.m. 9:40p.m.

Love Lies Bleeding Standard 1:20p.m. 3:50p.m. 6:40p.m. 9:25p.m.

Bob Marley: One Love Standard 6:30p.m. 9:15p.m.

Yodha Standard 12:00p.m. 3:10p.m. 6:20p.m. 9:30p.m.

Hey, Viktor! Standard 1:50p.m. 4:40p.m. 7:20p.m. 9:45p.m.

Madame Web Standard 9:45p.m.

Wonka Standard 12:30p.m. 3:30p.m.

Peppa's Cinema Party Standard 11:00a.m.