Photo by Casandra Turnbull
COMMUNITY DIRECTORY
Emergency: 9-1-1
Police Department: 888-310-1122
Fire Department: 519-442-4500
Willet Hospital: 519-442-2251
County of Brant Office: 519-442-6324
Paris Public Library: 519-442-2433
Paris Councillors & Mayor :
Mayor - David Bailey 226-387-2490
Ward 2 - Steve Howes 519-442-4955
Ward 2 - Lukas Oakley 226-216-3037
Ward 3 - John Bell 519-209-2277
Ward 3 - John Peirce 519-442-7134
Administration & Bylaw: 519-442-7268
Paris Customer Service Office 66 Grand River St. N. 519-442-7268
Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Main Services include:
-Accounts Receivable invoice payments
- Blue Boxes and Composters (pre-arrange pick up of composter)
- Brant Transit punch cards purchase and pick up
- Building Permits may be submitted and Building staff consulted
- Calendar pick up (free)
- Commissioner of Oath is by appointment only
- Dog license and tag
- Dog Park membership and key
- Parking ticket payment
- Property Tax payments and inquiries
- Public Works permits may be submitted
- Use the computer to meet with a virtual Planner to ask questions.
- Water testing sample bottles may be picked up. Drop off water testing samples on the last Wednesday of the month before 2 pm at the Burford Customer Service Office
Brant Sports Complex & Other Facility Booking 519-442-1944- Open Monday - Sunday, 8:30 am - 8:00 pm.
Main services include:
- Dog Park membership and key
- Dog license and tag
- Tennis Court membership and key
- Camp registration and recreation program registration
Articles, Events & Story ideas, please submit by email to: stories@theparisindependent.com
STATEMENT
We are an independently
Chris Whelan
Casandra Turnbull
Michelle Malvaso
George Le Gresley
Rubyyy Jones
Stephen L.
Jacob Gaudet
Taren White
Heidi Pfleger
Tiffany Martin
Shelley Gaudet
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
TODAY! PARIS SKETCHERS MONTHLY MEETING - Our meetup this month will be Sip & Sketch format at the Paris Inn on Saturday November 16th from 1 pm to 3 pm. We can sketch indoors (and outdoors if weather permits) and feel free to bring any sketch you want to work on. We will also have a brief meeting to brainstorm our locations for 2025 so please bring your ideas for indoor and outdoor locations. New participants of all skill levels welcome!
TODAY! NO ROAD BACK MUSIC EVENT – Hosted at the Paris Legion Branch 29 on Saturday, November 16th starting at noon and running all day/evening Enjoy musical entertainment from the best local musicians while raising money for the Canadian Cancer Society – Wheels of Hope program. Tickets available at the door. Drop in and see what it is all about!
TODAY! CHRISTMAS TEA AND BAZAAR- at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 17 Washington St. Paris. The bazaar will be on Saturday November 16th from Noon until 3p.m We will feature a Bake Table, Craft Table, Draws, Door Prize and Silent Auction. Come and browse the bazaar and stay for a light lunch. Please enter off Queen St.
PARIS SIP & SHOP HOLIDAY MARKET –
November 23rd and November 24th at the Paris Fairgrounds Grab a drink from our bar or lunch at the food trucks then shop with 2 halls full of unique artisans Make sure to stop by bakers’ lane to fill your belly & freezer with all of the holiday goodies that you could desire! More information available here.
PARIS JUNCTION BOOK LAUNCH – Paris resident Bob Hasler is launching is final installment of ‘Paris Junction Volume 5 The People Who Lived in the Junction.’ Taking place on Sunday November 24th at 2pm at the Paris Museum & Historical Society. Story on pages 8-9.
CPKC HOLIDAY TRAIN – Rolls through Ayr on Sunday, November 24th at 5:30 pm. The Holiday Train runs Nov 21 to Dec 20 for its 26th year of spreading holiday cheer and raising money, food and awareness for people struggling with food insecurity More information available here
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
AFTERNOON OF ORIGINAL MUSIC – Written by Donna Millward and Presented by St. James Praise Team with Guest Drummer Liam Hoff. Sunday, November 24th at 3 pm at St. James Church at 8 Burwell St, Paris. Please bring a donation for the foodbank
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS MEETING – The next monthly meeting is on Tuesday, November 26 starting at 7:30 PM at the Sacred Heart Parish Hall.
HOLIDAY LIGHTS – Join the Paris Lions Club and County of Brant as they light up Lions Park on November 29th from 6 pm to 8 pm
BRANT MEN OF SONG WEEKLY PRACTICESTuesday evenings starting at 7 PM at the First Baptist Community Hall 70 West drive, Brantford New members are always welcome.
CHIRSTMAS MARKET, FEATURING LOCAL ARTISTANS & - St George United Church, 9 Beverly St East (Hwy #5), in St George on Saturday, November 30th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Don't miss this fabulous opportunity to finish your Christmas shopping! We host two floors of creative vendors, offering baked goods as well as distinctive gifts and decor items to please everyone on your list! Admission: $2 00 For information, call (519) 448-3842
AYR SANTA CLAUS PARADE – Saturday, November 30th in Ayr, beginning at 1 pm, presented by Ayr North Dumfries Lions Club. Parade route: down Northumberland to Stanley and ends at the library.
SENSITIVE SANTAPresented by the County of Brant and Sensity Deafblind and Sensory Support Network of Canada, this event offers children a calm, sensory-friendly experience with Santa, tailored for those who may need a quieter environment Saturday, November 30th individual times determined by registration Email lisa koekoek@brant ca to register or call 519442-1944 ext 3207.
Jingle Bell Night, Jingles All the Way!
There may have been no snow in the skies, but there was an abundance of bubbles floating through the air as hundreds of Paris residents gathered in front of Cobblestone Common and eagerly waited for the annual tree lighting ceremony last night The Downtown Paris BIA hosts the annual event, dubbed Jingle Bell Night, where everyone gets a jump start on their holiday shopping. Christmas music, loads of treats and even a visit from Santa himself put everyone in the festive mood Pictured above selling cookies to fundraise for a trip to Doe Lake next year is the 79th Ontario Leap Unit representing Guiders of all ages. Below, the Paris Firefighters Club was set up on both Grand River Street North and Mechanic Street collecting new toy donations to officially kick off their Toy Drive for the Paris Community Christmas Hamper program. Representing council (below) is Councillor Jennifer Kyle, Mayor David Bailey and Councillor Steve Howes Absent from the photo, but present were Councillors Lukas Oakley, John Peirce and John Bell.
Both Santa Claus and the Grinch stole the show Friday night, greeting guests who packed the streets to celebrate the official start to the holiday season in town. Shoppers had a chance to enter a ballot into a draw for a shopping spree downtown Paris and the Brant Community Health Care System volunteers were on hand to wrap Christmas presents by donation to the BCHS. Carolers filled the streets and students from Sacred Heart School in Paris sang at the cenotaph.
Photos by Casandra Turnbull
Have your say in County’s Climate Action Plan before engagement closes on Monday
By Casandra Turnbull
The window to submit your thoughts on the county’s new Climate Action Plan (CAP) is closing on Monday.
Residents are invited to review the draft plan through EngageBrant and submit feedback before staff takes community input and rolls it into a final plan to be presented to
Council on November 26th .
The Climate Action Plan presents actions the county hopes will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, support resiliency, and encourage environmental sustainability The Corporate Strategy Team worked with staff across all county departments since May 2024 to develop the draft plan that includes data analysis, research,
staff expertise and feedback from the community.
Some key actions outlined in the CAP are developing sustainable and resilient standards for new county buildings, enhancing emissions data collection and reporting, increasing efforts for tree planting and preserving natural spaces.
Corporate emissions are calculated by evaluating key sources of emissions created by the County, including buildings, fleet, water and wastewater processing, and streetlights and traffic signals. The chart above shows an approximate breakdown of emissions from these sources in 2023.
In contrast, community emissions look at the County more broadly and focus on emissions from residential and non-residential buildings (energy use), transportation, and waste. The chart above shows an approximate breakdown of emissions from these sources in 2023.
All these initiatives stem from a 2019 council declaration that we are in a climate emergency, joining other municipalities across the country in highlighting the urgency to address climate change. Council set objectives of becoming net carbon neutral by 2050
The first phase is developing the Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan, in line with provincial requirements, which will guide the county until 2029. In a staff prepared report, it was noted that since 2013, the county has seen a 19% decrease in GHG emissions from county owned and operated buildings and water and wastewater treatment facilities.
Continued on page 8
COMMUNITY
A significant portion of this reduction is attributable to the greening of the provincial electricity grid and efforts to reduce the use of fossil fuels at its facilities. In recent years, the County has installed net metering solutions (solar) on new builds at the Cowan Community Hub, the Cainsville Community Centre and at the yet to be completed Paris Community Centre (former Lawn Bowling Clubhouse)
The County is also committed to thorough research and data analysis to better understand the impacts of climate change in Brant, prospective solutions from comparable municipalities, and to estimate corporate and community GHG emission levels
The County also plans to optimize county fleet by replacing gas-and diesel-powered light-duty fleet with electric vehicles and hybrid alternatives. Other transportation initiatives also include sustainable roadway design, enhanced flow of traffic and reducing idling through education, design and use of technology. It was noted the county should invest in infrastructure and information sharing to support more active transportation and use of efficient vehicles throughout the community.
In an effort to connect with nature, the plan encourages the county to implement policy directives in the Official Plan to protect agricultural
land and natural heritage systems, adopt practices to reduce emissions associated with maintaining parks and natural spaces, supporting biodiversity and creating new wetlands and helping the community advance naturalization projects like boulevard planting opportunities and education on the value of planting native pollinators
The CAP sets ten measurable targets outlined below:
* Reduce emissions from County owned and operated facilities by 40% by 2035 from the baseline year of 2013.
* Reduce emissions from County owned and operated facilities by 60% by 2040 from the baseline year of 2013
* Offset 50% of electricity used at corporate facilities through generation of renewable energy by 2040.
* Replace a minimum of 10 gas- or diesel-powered vehicles with hybrid/EV alternatives by 2035.
* Add a minimum of 5 new EV charging stations in high priority
areas throughout the County by 2030.
* Reduce solid waste disposed in landfill by 20% from 2023 levels by 2035.
* Plant 55,000 trees throughout the County (public and private land) by 2035
* Plant 110,000 trees throughout the County (public and private land) by 2045.
* Add more naturalized area on County property by reducing mowing requirements by 5% by 2035.
* Increase tree canopy on all County land to a minimum of 30% by 2050
The community feedback through EngageBrant closes on November 18th . You can submit your feedback and complete the Climate Action Plan Survey. If you’d like to find out more about the CAP, read the full report provided by County staff here.
Paris Remembrance Day Nov. 11th, 2024
The Remembrance Day ceremony in Paris began with a parade to the cenotaph led by The Ayr Paris Band& Paris/Port Dover Pipe Band followed by the singing of “Oh Canada” by Jennifer Budd (below)
PARIS REMEMBERS
A large crowd looked on as Legion members, Mayor Bailey far right, Councilor Peirce, shown below, and many others placed wreaths in honour of our local heroes and on behalf of The various County of Brant organizations
PARIS REMEMBERS
The Significance of the Poppy Campaign
By Chris Whelan
Since 1921, the Poppy has stood as a national symbol of Remembrance in Canada. It serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Veterans and their families The Royal Canadian Legion's Poppy Campaign not only raises funds but also ensures that the significance of the Remembrance Poppy is preserved and respected.
The Symbolism of the Poppy:
The Poppy is not just a flower; it is a symbol deeply intertwined with the history and sacrifices of those who served. From the last Friday in October to Remembrance Day, millions of Canadians wear the Poppy as a visual pledge to never forget the heroes who gave their all for their country.
In Flanders Fields: "In Flanders Fields," penned by
Canadian Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae during World War I, remains a poignant testament to the tragedy of war and the importance of honoring the memories of those lost. The torch of remembrance is passed on through generations, reminding us of the enduring impact of their sacrifice
Wearing
the Poppy with Respect:
The Legion's lapel Poppy is a sacred symbol of Remembrance and should be worn on the left side, over the heart, during the Remembrance period. It should not be affixed with a pin that obstructs the Poppy's visibility. Whether at a memorial service or the anniversary of a historic battle, wearing the Poppy is a gesture of respect and gratitude.
Caring for the Poppy:
Removing a Poppy should be done with care and respect. If a Poppy
falls to the ground, it should be picked up, brushed off, and either worn again or disposed of appropriately. The Royal Canadian Legion conducts the annual Poppy Campaign, distributing Poppies freely to raise funds in support of Veterans and their families.
Conclusion:
As Remembrance Day draws to a close, let us carry the spirit of honour and gratitude beyond this solemn day. Though the symbolic Poppies may no longer adorn our lapels, the memories they represent must remain etched in our hearts. The legacy of our Veterans and their sacrifices should not be confined to a single day of the year Let us continue to support and remember them in our thoughts, actions, and deeds every day. The Poppy may fade, but the commitment to never forget must endure, guiding us in our ongoing dedication to uphold the values they fought for.
PARIS PAST
John McCrae's Legacy: The Enduring Symbolism of the Poppy from Napoleonic Wars to Today
The history of the iconic Remembrance Day Poppy may not be as local as our town of Paris but its not that far away actually. Amidst the chaos and devastation of battle during the Napoleonic Wars, a small but poignant symbol emerged the Poppy Its significance can be traced back to the 19th century, over a century before its adoption in Canada, where thick Poppies bloomed over the graves of soldiers in Flanders, France. These blood-red flowers, turned once barren fields into vibrant reminders of sacrifice, this spoke volumes without uttering a word.
Fast forward to the First World War, a time of unprecedented global conflict that reshaped nations and individuals alike. It was during this tumultuous period that Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae, a Canadian Medical Officer from nearby Guelph, Ontario, penned the now-immortalized poem "In Flanders Fields." Written on a, scrap of paper in May 1915, just
a day after the loss of a comrade.
McCrae could not have foreseen the enduring impact of his 13 lines. Published later that year in Punch Magazine, his words resonated deeply with those who read them, etching themselves into the collective memory of all who would come to wear the Poppy.
The genesis of the Remembrance Poppy as we know it today can be attributed to Madame Anna Guérin of France. Inspired by McCrae's poignant verses, Anna, who had previously established a
charity to aid in the post-war reconstruction efforts in France crafted fabric Poppies as a means to raise funds. Presenting her idea to France's allies, including the forerunner to The Royal Canadian Legion, The Great War Veterans Association, Anna's concept found fertile ground In a meeting held in Port Arthur, Ontario (now Thunder Bay) on July 6, 1921, the Remembrance Poppy was officially adopted.
Continued on page 13
PARIS PAST
Today, the Poppy stands as a somber yet powerful symbol of remembrance, worn each year during the Remembrance period to honour Canada's Fallen. The Legion's advocacy for wearing the Poppy extends beyond this period, encouraging its presence at the funerals of Veterans and any commemorative event honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Through the steadfast dedication of millions of Canadians who don the Legion's lapel Poppy each November, the flame of remembrance continues to burn bright, ensuring that the memories of the fallen heroes endure, undimmed by time.
From its humble origins amidst the Napoleonic Wars to its contemporary resonance in today's society, the Poppy remains a steadfast emblem of
remembrance, a silent tribute to those who gave everything for the cause of peace and freedom. As we pause each year to don this simple yet profound symbol, let us remember not just the wars of the past, but the enduring legacy of sacrifice and honour that the Poppy represents, ensuring that the flame of remembrance never flickers out.
As the years have passed, the Poppy has transcended its origins on the battlefields of Europe to become a universal symbol of remembrance and gratitude for the sacrifices made by veterans and service members around the world. Beyond its visual impact, the Poppy serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the enduring need for peace. Each time an individual pins a Poppy to their lapel, they
are not only honouring the fallen but also pledging to never forget the lessons of history and to strive for a future free from conflict.
In a world where the echoes of past conflicts still reverberate, the Poppy stands as a symbol of hope and unity, bringing together people from all walks of life in a shared moment of reflection and reverence Its scarlet petals evoke a profound sense of remembrance, encouraging us to pause, reflect, and pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their countries. Through the simple act of wearing a Poppy, we connect with a tradition that spans generations, ensuring that the memories of the brave men and women who laid down their lives in defense of freedom will endure for years to come.
Paris Community Christmas Hamper and Toy Drive: A Holiday Tradition of Giving
The Power of 100
Presented by 100 People Who Care Brant
This month’s focus: Paris Community Christmas Hampers
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. NOVEMBER’S FOCUS IS ON PARIS COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS HAMPERS
The spirit of giving is alive in Paris as the community rallies together to support the annual Christmas Hamper and Toy Drive. Hosted by local schools, community groups, businesses, and first responders, the drive gathers food and toys for County of Brant families in need Over 30 years ago, the very first hampers were put together in Marg Knill’s basement, with only a few recipients. Now, thanks to the efforts of Chair Shirley Simons and her dedicated team, the program has expanded tremendously, providing holiday joy to more than 150 families each year.
As the cost of living rises, the demand
for hampers grows Last year, 156 families received these gifts of food and holiday cheer. This effort begins in early November and involves nine committee members and close to 100 volunteers Together, they ensure that every family registered with the program has a little extra to smile about on Christmas morning. The hampers include all the ingredients for a Christmas meal, extra pantry essentials, and gifts for children For those who want to do more, the program offers sponsorship opportunities. Last year, 18 generous sponsors came forward to adopt families, providing not only basic needs but also wish list items. Sponsors receive an application detailing each family’s preferences, enabling them to shop and prepare a customized gift hamper This personalized approach spreads joy while meeting specific needs,
making the holidays brighter for everyone involved.
The logistics of the hamper drive are substantial. From gathering donations to sorting and packing, every aspect of the operation is handled with care and expertise by volunteers. Local sports teams, girl guides, students, and neighbors all pitch in. For those who want to get involved, volunteering is an option that many returning individuals look forward to each year with holiday music playing, a room full of volunteers wearing Christmas hats will be seen busily sorting, packing, and organizing donations with pride For others, donating is just as valuable. The Brant OPP and EMS will hold their “Fill a Vehicle” food drive on December 7-8 and December 14-15 at Sobeys, No Frills, and Foodland in St George and Burford.
Did you know the Christmas Hamper program started in the basement of Barb Knills’ house more than three decades ago? It’s grown so much over the years that the donations now fill a Paris Fairgrounds building.
COMMUNITY
The Paris Fire Fighters Club will also be collecting new toys outside Canadian Tire Paris November 28 to December 1st . Other donation drop-off sites include the County of Brant Service Office, LCBO, local banks, TD Bank, YNCU Credit Union, Full Plate, BMO and Primacare Community Centre Local schools are also doing their part and organizing their own food donation programs to donation to the Christmas Hampers. It truly is a community-wide initiative.
The Paris Fairgrounds generously offers space for organizing donations from December 15-20 Volunteers will spend the week preparing for distribution on December 20, ensuring every hamper is packed with care. Due to limited space available for the collection and preparation of hampers, only families that reside in the County of Brant that are in need will be offered an application. Please visit the County of Brant office in Paris, 66 Grand River Street North, until mid-December for an application. Those interested in sponsoring a family or volunteering can reach out to Shirley Simons at 519-442-3550. This cherished holiday tradition wouldn’t be possible without the kindness and dedication of all involved Each year, the Christmas Hamper and Toy Drive helps the Paris community come together, ensuring everyone can feel the joy and warmth of the season.
The Paris Firefighters Club will be at Canadian Tire Paris collecting toy donations the weekend of Nov. 28 to Dec.1. To the left, these three young gentlemen told their parents they had more than enough toys and went shopping together to purchase toys to donate to last year’s Hamper Program.
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!
Five Oaks to introduce its inaugural Breakfast with Santa event next month
A morning of festive fun, food, and family awaits!
MEDIA RELEASE PARIS, ON – Five Oaks Retreat Centre is excited to present its first annual Breakfast with Santa event on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. This special holiday gathering offers families a joyful way to start the season with Santa, a cozy breakfast, and cheerful children’s activities.
Guests will be treated to a delicious hot breakfast, served in the Dining Hall from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM, featuring fluffy pancakes, tasty sausages, crispy home fries, baked beans, fresh fruit, tea, coffee, and juice. Adding to the magic, Santa Claus himself will be joining us for photos, so don’t forget your cell phone or camera to capture the perfect holiday memory. Children can also enjoy a few seasonal craft and activity stations, making this a wonderful morning of festive fun.
Proceeds from the Breakfast with Santa event will support Five Oaks’ children’s programming, allowing us to expand our mission of creating meaningful, inclusive experiences for young people in our community.
“With this being our first year hosting a Breakfast with Santa, we're especially eager to spread the word and make it a memorable experience for our community,” said Ashley Solak, Communications for Five Oaks, in an email to the Paris Independent. “We've been so encouraged by the
response to our children’s programming over the past couple of years from Summer Camp and PA Day camps to events like Owl Prowl. This holiday event feels like a perfect extension of those programs, and we hope it will bring together families in a festive and joyful way.”
The Breakfast is also hosted the same day as the Paris Santa Claus parade, so it’s a perfect way to extend the holiday cheer all day long!
The breakfast will be served from 9 am to 10:30 am in the centre’s dining hall The cost is $12 for adults (over the age of 13) and $8 for children 12 and under. Tickets must be purchased in advance. You can contact Five Oaks at 519-442-3212 to purchase your tickets or email hospitality@fiveoaks.on.ca. More information is also available on their website –www.fiveoaks.on.ca or by clicking here to register. Join us at Five Oaks for a magical morning with Santa and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Paris Billiards Beat: at Sharkey’s Billiards & Bar Brantford
By Scoop Stewart
In a thrilling night of cues and balls at Sharkey's, the Paris Billiards Tourney unfolded with a mix of triumphs, defeats, and a whole lot of flair Here's the rundown of the action-packed evening:
Winners: G. Graham and W. Dafoe clinched victory, with Grieg G making a spectacular comeback to claim his third non-consecutive championship. The competition was fierce, but these players showed their mettle.
Runner-ups: L. Heath and D. Stewart put up a valiant fight, but despite all the advice and encouragement, Stewart found himself a bridesmaid once more
Winners of Losers: P. Fargason and C. Whelan shocked the audience with a stunning upset over their opponents which shall remain nameless The dynamic duo displayed their skills and teamwork, proving that in billiards, Whelan votes for Fargason!
MVP: W. Dafoe emerged as the Most Valuable Player of the night. Known for his prowess on the billiards table and his legacy as a Paris 29er hockey player, Dafoe's performance was nothing short of stellar. Congratulations, Willie, on a well-deserved honour.
Quote of the Week: "Do I even have to take this shot?" - a classic line from the legendary Minnesota fats Heath, capturing the intensity and anticipation of the games.
As the week comes to a close, anticipation builds for the upcoming Fargason Cup, a midseason tournament dedicated to P Fargason The competition is sure to be fierce, with players gearing up for another round of thrilling matches.
A special mention goes out to the delightful and talented Katie, a former Southend Paris girl, and the team at Sharkey's for their exceptional service and hospitality, making each gathering a memorable experience for all.
Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from the Paris Billiards Beat, where every shot counts and every victory is celebrated in style
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Curlers win big at Men’s Invitational in Ohio
The first weekend of November, the Paris Curling Club sent a pair of teams down to Cleveland Ohio, to the Mayfield Curling Club to play in their annual Men's Invitational Spiel. This spiel has been taking place since the late 1980s, and we have been sending teams down to play in it since the early 2000s. The team consisting of Mike, Michael, Jeff, and Ellay (pictured top left) lost a game early to the defending champion but rebounded and got themselves into the C event finals where they fell short by 1 point (the last rock thrown in the game got them!) Bryan, Shawn, Gavin, and John (top right) had their foot on the pedal from the get-go and ended up pulling out the victory in the A-finals against that same defending champ! This was also the first out of club bonspiel win for Bryan and Gavin! Big congrats to team Maude for their stellar gameplay all weekend! Paris Curling Club Photo
Nov 8 - Nov 14
November 8–U18LL#1 lose 6-2 against Port Dover Pirates 2
November 10–U18LL#1 tie 2-2 against Simcoe Warriors 2
November 10 –U18LL#2 lose 3-2 against Tillsonburg Tornadoes
November 11–U15LL#1 loses 9-0 against Tillsonburg Tornadoes
November 12–U13LL#1 lose 4-0 against Burford Coyotes 2
November 12–U18LL#1 lose 5-2 against Norwich Knighthawks
November 14–U11LL#1 win 5-4 against Ingersoll Express 2
November 14–U11LL#2 lose 6-0 against Delhi Rockets 1
Thank-you Paris Minor Hockey sponsors Paris Optimist Club, Kings Wood Products, Mike Yarek Dodge, Dairy Farmers of Ontario, No Frills, Canadian Tire, Brant Sports Excellence, Ayr Farmers Mutual Insurance Company, Cobblestone Medicine Rehab, Desjardins, Tremco, Adkins Financial Service, Foodland for all your support!
By Casandra Turnbull
The Paris Titans drop two games last weekend, pick up one win Sports odds & ends, by George Le
The Paris Titans Junior C hockey club is slowing climbing out of the basement of the PJHL Doherty Division, posting four wins and 12 losses so far this season The record puts the team second last place in the division, ahead of the Hespeler Shamrocks The Titans are three points behind the Tavistock Braves It’s the most promising start to the season in recent years for the Titans Last Saturday, November 8th , the Paris Titans faced off with the Norwich Merchants in an away game that ended in a 5-2
loss. The titans at 4-12-0 put up a good fight against the 13-5-0 Merchants
Anthony Pede, who happens to lead the team in points this season, scored both of Paris’ goals in the second and third periods
The next night, Paris took on the Woodstock Navy Vets, who are sitting at the top of the PJHL scoreboard alongside the Norwich Merchants It was a 1-1 tie after two periods of play with Blake Kersey putting Paris on the scoreboard in the second period
Unfortunately, Woodstock found the back of the net
in the third period and Paris did not respond, dropping the 2-1 game Last Sunday the team travelled to Hespeler and beat them 7-3 Of note was the performances of Max Koekoek and Jack Kersey who each scored a hat trick!
You can catch the team in action again tonight at home at the Brant Sports Complex They will face the Dorchester Dolphins. Puck drops at 7:30 pm On Tuesday the Wellesley Applejacks come to Paris for a rare weekday game
Gresley
Paris High School
Unfortunately for both the Senior and Junior Volleyball teams, neither qualified for the Central Western Ontario tournaments. The school’s athletes will now transition to winter sports teams, which should be getting started very soon.
Canadian Football
It’s Grey Cup day on Sunday with a 6:00 PM start. The game features the Toronto Argonauts (my team since I was 12) and the oft finalist contender Winnipeg Blue Bombers. This season’s regular scheduled games were all close ones and very entertaining. The Halftime show features the Jonas Brothers! On a personal note, I have been attending the Grey Cup for the last 17 or so years and this year the streak ends for a good reason….I’m off to Montreal with my son and going to Canadiens game (my favourite team since ’69).
BRANT BATTALION HOCKEY
SCOREBOARD –
November 7–U12A Battalions lose 7-2 against New Hamburg Huskies
Nov 7 - Nov 10
November 7–U13B Battalions lose 8-1 against South Oxford Storm
November 8– U10A Battalions lose 4-3 against Dorchester Dragons A
November 8– U16A Battalions lose 3-2 against Norfolk Knights A
November 8– U18A Jr Titans lose 5-3 against Norfolk Knights A
November 9– U13A Battalions lose 4-0 against St. Thomas Jr Stars A
November 9– U11B Battalions win 2-1 against South Oxford Storm
November 9–U14A Battalions lose 5-0 against St. Thomas Jr. Stars A
November 9–U15B Battalions lose 2-0 against South Oxford Storm
November 9–U18B Battalions win 2-1 against New Hamburg Huskies
November 10–U11B Battalions win 8-1 against New Hamburg Huskies
November 10– U11A Battalions lose 5-3 against Norfolk Knights
November 10–U13A Battalions lose 7-1 against Norfolk Knights
November 10–U12A Battalions lose 4-1 against St Marys Rock
November 10–U10A Battalions lost 7-2 against Norfolk Knights
November 10 –U14A Battalions win 1-0 against St. Marys Rock
November 10–U16A Battalions tie 2-2 against Strathroy Jr. Rockets
November 10–U15A Battalions lose 11-2 against St. Thomas Jr Stars
November 10– U15B Battalions ties 2-2 against Plattsville Rage
West River Street Update: Construction to continue in Spring/Summer of 2025
County of Brant Capital Projects Manager Joe Murphy provided the following update on West River Street this past week in a County of Brant issued news blast via email and social media:
We would like to provide the following update on construction taking place on West River Street in Paris:
Sanitary sewer installation is now complete, and watermain replacement has commenced north of William Street. Due to constraints related to the location of the gas main and the risk of gas main breaks, the scope of work on West River Street has been reduced this year. As a result, no remaining sidewalk can be removed, and work between Mechanic Street and William Street cannot proceed this year. Current efforts are focused on areas already disrupted. Once the watermain replacement is complete, several smaller storm sewer replacements will follow, along with interim surface restoration. The road will be paved, sidewalks and driveways will be patched with asphalt for
Some unexpected issues with gas main breaks has delayed the completion of West River Street in Paris. Originally slated to wrap up the first week of December, the project will be completed in the Spring / Summer of 2025. The road will be paved, and sidewalks and driveways will be patched for the winter.
the winter, and yard spaces will be topsoiled and graded for positive drainage. Restoration work and work south of William Street will resume in spring 2025
While the goal was to complete all work in 2024, gas main constraints have shifted final project completion to early summer 2025.
The gas main replacement is scheduled to begin in December 2024
Please refer to Municipal 511 for the most up-to-date traffic information regarding road construction and closures.
It is our goal to minimize any inconvenience to our residents. Your patience through any disruption will be greatly appreciated.
Anyone requiring additional information can reach out to Joe by phone to 519.44BRANT x2209 or email operations at operations@brant.ca
Photo submitted by Paris Independent Reader
Introducing Snax: Paris’ Own Healthy Dog Snack with a Purpose
By Tiffany Martin
As a Paris resident and pet lover, I’m excited to share the story of Snax, a local business creating wholesome, fun Dog Snacks designed to support dog health and longevity At Snax, we believe in providing your pets with the highest quality ingredients snacks and Meal Toppers, sourced locally, when possible, for a longer, more vibrant life. Snax is also the name of our peppy Mini Aussie puppy who has brought us so much joy and brought me back into the ‘dog world’ again At Snax, we’re all about using natural, human-grade ingredients to craft snacks with a purpose. From daily rewards, and meal toppers to functional snacks that serve your pet’s specific health needs, every recipe I create is inspired by the idea that better ingredients can lead to a happier, healthier dog.
Why Dog Nutrition Matters
Pet health starts with nutrition, and at Snax, we focus on creating options that go beyond traditional treats. Each ingredient serves a purpose, providing nutrients that support your dog’s well-being Take pumpkin for example – it’s packed with fiber and vitamins, supporting digestive health and
Meet the author of this column, Paris resident Tiffany Martin, with her newest member of the family, the adorable Mini Aussie puppy, and namesake behind her newest venture, Snax, a healthy line of products meant to keep your furry friends healthy and happy.
providing a natural way to regulate your dog’s system. Or kefir, a fermented drink packed with probiotics that can improve gut health, immune function, and even skin condition when included regularly in a dog’s diet. Small changes like these can have a big impact on your pet’s quality of life.
A Few Health Tips for Dog Owners
1.Balance is Key: Just like us, dogs need a mix of protein, fat,
and carbohydrates to thrive. Fresh, whole foods that are minimally processed can make a big difference in your dog’s energy, coat condition, and digestive health.
2.Incorporate Functional Foods: Look for ingredients that serve more than one purpose. For example, liver is not only packed with iron and vitamins A, D, E, and K but is also rich in CoQ10, which supports heart health.
Continued on page
COMMUNITY NEWS
Avoid Empty Fillers: Many storebought treats contain fillers and additives that do little to benefit your dog’s health Stick with products made from real, recognizable ingredients whenever possible, like Snax!
Snax Favorites Perfect for Holiday Giving
Our Snax are also now available locally at Sweetness and Flight located in the heart of Downtown Paris in The Gem Marketplace. This holiday season, Snax has some special treats that are perfect for gift-giving and here are a just a few:
•Pumpkin Liver Snax: Made with real pumpkin, chicken liver, and almond flour, these treats are as nutritious as they are delicious Rich in vitamins and minerals, they make a great daily snack and reward.
•Gut Gummy Worms: This unique treat combines grass-fed bovine gelatin, ginger, and probiotics to support your dog’s digestive health in a fun, wiggly format. Gelatin strengthens the gut and supports joint health, making these a functional snack that your dog will love
•Pupper-roons: These bite-sized coconut macaroons are packed with natural ingredients that support your dog’s health from the inside out! Made with unsweetened shredded coconut, gut-friendly kefir, and protein-rich egg whites, Pupperroons offer a tasty, nutritious boost for your pup’s daily diet. Coconut is rich in antioxidants and promotes a shiny coat and healthy skin, while kefir supports digestion. Perfect as a snack or crumbled over your dog’s meal and I have made them festive by adding cranberries!
•Festive Pup-sicles: Let your pups enjoy dessert this holiday season with our healthy Pup-sicles! (pictured to the left)
These adorable holiday treats look like candy canes but are loaded with goodness: creamy kefir, chia seeds, a pop of spirulina & cranberry for natural colour, and a fun sardine “stick” handle!
Whether you’re treating your own dog or looking for a thoughtful gift for a friend’s furry family member, our holiday treats are crafted with care and more Stocking Stuffers and Holiday Snack Pack boxes are being released next week You can also tune into our socials to find out popup market schedule too @mydogsnax on both Facebook and Instagram
Convenient Pickup & How to Order
Snax operates out of Paris, ON, with porch pickup available right from my home shop on Thursdays and free delivery within Paris You can find our latest offerings and preorder treats directly from Farmarket or reach out
through Instagram or Facebook for the latest menu, nutritional tips, and special holiday offerings. Our website is also live at www.dogsnax.ca to find out more about us and why we are so keen on providing a healthy life for our dog.
At Snax, I believe in creating “snacks with a purpose” because our dogs deserve the same level of care that we put into our own health, if not better. I’m excited to share these treats with the Paris community and to see the joy they bring to your pets Thank you for supporting a local, small business this holiday season, and here’s to a healthy, happy season for you and your furry friends!
About the Author:
With a background in canine nutrition and years of experience in outdoor dog training and adventure, Tiffany is passionate about enriching the lives of dogs through wholesome snacks, smart nutrition, and active lifestyles. In this monthly column they share insights into healthy dog snacks, nutrition & lifestyle tips, and engaging enrichment ideas all inspired by their popular line of Snax treats. From recipes to lifestyle tips, Tiffany brings a wealth of knowledge and a love for animals to each issue.
County of Brant Receives Tree Canada Grant for Community Reforestation Project
MEDIA RELEASE - The County of Brant is celebrating the completion of a reforestation project at the Burford Lions Art Cadman Park, made possible by a generous Community Tree Grant from Tree Canada, funded by CN’s EcoConnexions program
“We are incredibly thankful for the support from Tree Canada and our partners, whose contributions made this project possible,” said County of Brant Mayor David Bailey. “It has allowed for 400 native trees and shrubs to be planted, revitalizing a section of the park.”
The tree planting event was held
on October 19, 2024, in partnership with local organizations and community members. Special thanks to the Burford Lions Club for providing event support and refreshments, the Brant Tree Coalition for event coordination and support, the Grand River Conservation Authority for providing tree nursery resources and Grade 9 students from Paris District High School who volunteered to help plant trees. A big thank you also goes out to residents who volunteered their time. A variety of native species were planted, including Hackberry,
Sumac, Silver Maple, Gray Dogwood, Shagbark Hickory, Hazel, Burr Oak, Red Oak, Red Bud, White Pine, and White Spruce
This project aims to enhance biodiversity, reduce seasonal flooding and erosion, and restore wildlife habitat to the park, which is located along Whiteman’s Creek, a tributary of the Grand River.
For more information about this project and future reforestation initiatives in the County of Brant, please visit www.brant.ca/forestry.
Pictured above, volunteers at a Burford community tree planting event.
Jobless rate in Brantford area drops in October and stays lower than provincial rate
BRANTFORD (Nov. 8, 2024) – The Brantford area’s jobless rate dropped in October, though employment stayed virtually unchanged.
After sitting at 7% for two months, Brantford-Brant’s unemployment rate fell in October to 6 5%, an estimate from Statistics Canada that is seasonally adjusted and based on a survey of area households.
Canada’s national unemployment rate was unchanged at 6 5%, with only 15,000 new jobs added, while Ontario’s jobless rate stood at 6.8%.
Communities surrounding BrantfordBrant also saw no change or only minor changes to their unemployment rates
Locally, Statistics Canada estimated there were 400 fewer people unemployed, with 100 more people becoming employed and 300 no longer in the labour force
“Last month’s numbers confirm what we’ve been seeing for months, with the area’s labour pool shrinking, with more discouraged people sitting things out,” said Danette Dalton, executive director of the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie “This is most noticeable in the increased number of men not in the labour force.”
The Workforce Planning Board is one of 26 non-profit organizations in Ontario that play a leadership role in labour force planning. The Workforce Planning Board is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario Dalton added that the seasonal nature of some jobs may be a factor, with students returning to school and some construction jobs ending. But there were job losses in other sectors, too
“Some men may have found jobs outside the area, but only London saw its labour force and employment grow last month without also experiencing job losses.”
On a more positive note, Dalton said women have seen fewer job losses and part-time employment has grown, with hiring for the Christmas shopping season a likely factor. The Grand Erie Jobs online job board recorded almost 1,750 postings in October, identical to September However, the number of companies with postings dropped 8%.
Job boards operated by other workforce planning boards have seen the same thing There was a 10% drop in the number of companies posting in the Hamilton and London areas.
Try a Trade graduates!
The Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie was delighted to congratulate the 3rd cohort of ‘Try a Trade’ students on their recent graduation from the program. ‘Try a Trade’ provides students with an introduction to the world of mechatronics including machining, electrical and fabrication trades. Partnering with the Six Nations Polytechnic and the CWB Welding Foundation, the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie committed to offering four cohorts of 12 people each. This is the third of four cohorts. Find out more about the program here
ASTROLOGY
Aries: March 21 - April 19 (Fire) –You will intuitively know what you want and how to get it, especially in relationships This is the right time to ask someone out on a date and to act on your instincts You can be direct and assertive without looking bossy or rude and will be admired for your honesty and sincerity.
Taurus: April 20 - May 20 (Earth) –Extra charm and charisma make you more self-assured and attractive than usual So this is an excellent time for socializing and especially for dating Making friends comes easy, and new partnerships will be genuine and mutually beneficial Good fortune also applies to long-distance travel, financial investments, higher education and the law.
Gemini: May 21 - June 20 (Air)You can be very constructive and productive but also highly creative Physical activity is especially favored, like exercise, sport, sculpture and dance Increased sex appeal and charisma make this an excellent time for dating You also have the courage to stand up for your rights and to protect loved ones against threats.
Cancer: June 21 – July 22 22 (Water) - You can more easily connect with others at the emotional level, which makes you very alluring and attractive Your intuition and psychic abilities will be stronger and more accurate than usual Dreaming and imagination will be more vivid and creative This is a good time for meditation and other spiritual or occult activities because you should enjoy spiritual or psychic protection.
Virgo: August 23 - September 22 (Earth) – While you may have a broadly positive outlook, focusing on the smaller details is crucial A lack of concentration or inability to focus, may lead to some errors of judgment or mistakes Also, don’t promise too much or overestimate your abilities when planning the future.
Libra: September 23 - October 22 (Air) - Trying to make big changes brings a big risk of instability and chaos A better option is to adjust to changing conditions with flexibility and open-mindedness This way, you can take advantage of unexpected opportunities and find a new way forward
Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 (Water) – Your increased empathy and concern can have an uplifting effect on others, which could materialize as more involvement in groups of all kinds However, you are as likely to benefit from a more individual quest for spiritual enlightenment through books, study courses, or consultations with gurus, Tarot readers, astrologers or psychics.
Aquarius: January 20 –February 18 (Air) – You can rely on good decision-making skills and foresight to make optimistic plans for the future Open, honest and straightforward self-expression make this an excellent time to make friends and profitable business partnerships This is also a good time for writing, studying, exams and traveling Your diplomatic skills could be called upon to resolve disagreements between friends and within larger groups of people
Pisces: February 19 - March 20 (Water) – While you may have a broadly positive outlook, focusing on the smaller details is crucial A lack of concentration or inability to focus, may lead to some errors of judgment or mistakes Also, don’t promise too much or overestimate your abilities when planning the future
Sagittarius: November 22December 21 (Fire) – You can harness your imaginative ability, insight and higher awareness to make things happen Positive change and exciting opportunities are possible Being flexible and open-minded will bring better results than being too daring, impulsive or rebellious.
Leo: July 23 - August 22 (Fire) –Impulsive actions or eccentric behavior would cause instability and disruption A better option is to adapt and adjust in response to changing conditions Open-mindedness and flexibility will help you take advantage of unexpected opportunities.
Capricorn: December 22 - January 19 (Earth) – There may be an imbalance between your thinking on a particular matter and the reality of the situation Overconfidence could lead to mistakes and embarrassment With careful planning and a practical approach, you can take advantage of new opportunities for personal, material, and spiritual growth.
Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford For Saturday, November 16, 2024
Venom: The Last Dance
Standard 1:20p.m. 4:10p.m.
3D 7:00p.m. 9:45p.m.
Heretic
Standard 1:30p.m. 4:20p.m. 7:10p.m. 9:45p.m.
The Wild Robot
Standard 12:15p.m. 3:00p.m. 3D 6:10p.m. 8:45p.m.
Smile 2
Standard 12:40p.m. 3:40p.m. 6:40p.m. 9:35p.m.
Here
Standard 6:50p.m. 9:30p.m.
Bhool bhulaiyaa 3
Standard 1:20p.m. 4:30pm.
8:00p.m.
Singham again
Standard 5:00p.m. 8:30p.m.
Piece by piece
Standard 1:55p.m. 4:20p.m.
Paddington 2
Standard 11:30a.m.
GATES OPEN AT 6 MOVIE STARTS AT 7 (SUNDAY GATES OPEN AT 5 MOVIE STARTS AROUND 5:30)
NOW OPEN
FRI-SUN. & CARLOAD
THURSDAY
