FINAL VOLUME: THE JUNCTION!
Paris resident Bob Hasler has just finished the 5th in a series of books about an area of Paris commonly known as “The Junction”. As Bob dug up information for the first book, not only did he learn about his wife’s family ancestry, but he also became aware of some fascinating tales rooted in the area itself. Bob’s final book launch takes place at the Paris Museum, located in the Syl Apps Community Centre, on Sunday November 24th at 2 pm. See full story inside on pages 5-6.
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
BRANT
COUNTY PROBUS MEN’S CLUB MEETING – The next monthly meeting is on Tuesday, November 12 starting at 10 am at the Sherwood Restaurant 799 Colborne Street, Brantford Guest speaker is Lucy Marco from the GRCOA. New members are always welcome.
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!
YOUTH DANCE - The Paris Optimist Club will hold its monthly Youth Dance on Friday, November 15th , 2024, at the Syl Apps Community Centre, 51 William St. Paris. The dance is for students in grades 5 to 8 only. Grade 9 and older students are welcome to attend as volunteers. There are adult chaperones.
The DJ begins the Dance at 7 pm and it ends at 10 pm. Volunteers must arrive at 6:45 pm. Entry fee is $5.00 with a concession booth for pop, chips, candy and pizza All proceeds support the Paris Optimist Club and its projects for the youth of our community For any further info or to volunteer as a chaperone or as a high school student, please call 226.802.5063 or 519.757.5020.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
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!
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
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. See 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.
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.
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS MEETING – The next monthly meeting is on Tuesday, November 26 starting at 7:30 PM at the Sacred Heart Parish Hall
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
Paris man releases final volume of five book series that unfolds the rich tapestries of the area of Paris called ‘The Junction’
By Cate Breaugh
Local historian and long-time Paris resident Bob Hasler has just finished the 5th in a series of books about an area of Paris commonly known as “The Junction”. And he’s eager to share.
Two railway crossings define the area of Paris that roughly runs from the Nith River to Silver Street in the north. It starts on the east side of Adam Street and runs west to the old railway line that ran from Buffalo to Stratford and Goderich. Also included are parts of Banfield and Capron Streets because there was a school located on nearby Jury Street (dubbed the Junction School). The Paris Junction is sometimes also known as Paris Station because there once was a train station located there. Bob is quick to point out that others may define the Junction area differently than he does. But for the purposes of his books this is the definition that worked best. Full disclosure, Bob and this writer are both volunteers and keen supporters of the Paris Museum and Historical Society (PMHS). PMHS’s mission is to collect, preserve and make
accessible Paris’ rich heritage
And we are delighted and honoured to support Bob’s efforts to make stories of this specific neighbourhood of Paris widely available to its citizens and the wider world.
Bob’s book writing adventures began with an idea that he would investigate and write the stories of his wife’s family. Pat HaslerWatts has deep roots in this area Bob and Pat live in her family home Her family came from England and ended up living in the Junction and he decided to record their genealogy in book form. Bob has dedicated his books to Pat, saying that without her support the books wouldn’t have been made.
As Bob dug up information for that first book, not only did he learn about Pat’s family ancestry, but he also became aware of some fascinating tales rooted in the area itself. And he came to realize that there was a whole rich history of this community within a community that needed to be told.
This is how it is with stories. One thing very swiftly leads to another. And another. And once people find out that you’re interested in what they know,
they are often eager to tell their tales. That’s how one book leads to four more books. Until you find like Bob did, that you’ve spent the last 30 years of your life writing books about local history.
“There’s a rich history here that you can’t see. I need to tell the forgotten stories. I’m a storyteller,” says Bob.
He’s not wrong. The stories fairly flow out of him. His mind an endless repository of details that he has woven into a series of rich tapestries of the area of Paris that he calls home. The whole series of books covers the years from 1848-1960 The first book is pre 1900 and the subsequent four books span the period from 1900 to 1960.
Continued on page 6
COMMUNITY
Did you know that the fire of 1865 (one of several notable fires in Paris) was first noticed by a soldier who raised the alarm? He was one of 600 combatants encamped nearby. You might wonder why such a large battalion of soldiers had been stationed here in Paris? Bob did. And he discovered that the British government powers that be were concerned that as the American Civil War neared its end, the victors might decide to turned north in a bid to liberate Canada from the British. The battalion was here ready to repel a possible invasion As for how the fire started. Bob found that it proved to be someone reading in bed whose candle caught the bedclothes alight.
Along with stories of soldiers, fires, wars, businesses, railways and properties that were housed in the Junction, the local historian also heard a tale or two of fraud and murder And he has captured them all in the books. Bob credits his dedicated researcher Barbara Vance for the significant contribution that she made in investigating and verifying the information that he so carefully collected over the years. And there are others whose contributions and support were also invaluable In fact, there are so many that Bob says they are almost too many to mention. Maybe it takes a village to tell a good story. His latest book, “The People Who
Lived in the Junction” has about 4,000 names in it. All alphabetized so that they can be easily found. Maybe it’s fitting that this last book focuses on the people who made their lives in the Junction. Because how can you tell the story of a place without highlighting its people?
The book sells for $45 per copy, with forty percent of the price going to support PMHS. Other books in the series are also available through PMHS. Will there be more books from Bob? He says not. “This is my last book. I’ve been working on this for 30 years My brain is fried,” he laughs.
So, what’s next for the local storyteller? He now plans to delve into boxes and boxes of memorabilia donated to PMHS from the Scott family It’s a veritable treasure trove just waiting to be mined. And that’s another story
Come join us at the Paris Museum, located in the Syl Apps Community Centre, for the launch of Bob’s latest book on Sunday November 24th at 2 pm. It’s your chance to buy a signed copy of the book, chat with the author and help support your local museum.
County: West River Street update coming next week
The West River water, stormwater and roads project is still underway. BEECH Infrastructure is executing the $2 6 million dollar project, which was originally said to be completed by December 6, 2024 When the Paris Independent reached out this week for a project update, County staff advised area residents and council would receive an update by early next week and a public update will follow through the County’s website and social media channels. Watch for a story in the next Paris Independent edition. Photos provided by a Paris Independent reader
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
All letters must be signed by the writer and are subject to editing for length and clarity. The opinions expressed in the letter are those of the writer, and not necessarily those of the Paris Independent. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, or completeness of this information. If you have an opinion to share, email your letters to stories@theparisindependent.com
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Paris welcomes Riverside Bookshelf!
Paris has so many marvelous small businesses and boutiques and those are one of the keys that makes Paris such a pretty and popular place for people to visit and reside in; it’s a mighty component of the charm and economic power of our fair town. This week saw the opening of the newest business on the block - a much needed one - Riverside Bookshelf, on the corner of Dundas Street West and Burwell St, is Paris’s new dedicated bookstore. Nestled between Paris treasure, Little Paris Bread Co, and delicious dining spot for foodies, Secret Lunch, the Riverside Bookshelf completes this terrific trio of entrepreneurs with terrific books, thoughtful gifts, and a great program of events. It’s a perfect fit for their tagline: a repository of knowledge, cultural exchange, and conversation Owner, Alison Fishburn, is a Paris resident, a Pushcart-nominated writer, award-winning playwright, performer, community organizer and the creator of Riverside Reading Series and the annual Riverside Reading Festival so expect a stock that is carefully curated, multitudinous in meaning and a little bit provocative at times.
Continued on page 9
season!
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Everything from Best Sellers to pop-up books, 2SLGBTQIA+ authors to quintessential classics, this is a bookstore that aspires to inspire connection, conversation and a love of words, thinking and expanding your mind.
The space itself - I went for the Grand Opening on Wednesday November 6th - is gorgeous, with high ceilings, lots of natural light and incredible shelves and shelving, designed and created by artist, maker, and Alison’s husband, Tim Richards. The whole space is airy, flowing and really fresh! In addition, there’s a great selection of books, there are also great gift type stock from puzzles, bookmarks, notebooks, Riverside
Alison Fishburn in front of her new business –Riverside Bookshelf located at 32 Dundas St in Paris. The new bookstore opened its doors during a grand opening on November 6th .
Photo provided by Alison Fishburn
Bookshelf perch, including stickers to other small things you can get from their art vending machinemugs, magnetic poetry and more.
Riverside Bookshelf is open Wednesday to Sunday 10 am to 6 pm, check out www.riversidebookshelf.com for more info about upcoming events too, there will be a radiant program of book launches and signings, author talks, a lecture series, story time for kids and all kinds of meaningful happenings Congratulations to the Riverside Bookshelf team, if the Grand Opening was anything to go by, you are going to be busy and buzzy; Paris is very lucky to have you!
Calling Young Chefs!
Join the County of Brant on the November 15 PA Day (for Grand Erie District School Board students) for Cooking with Kids! From mastering kitchen basics to creating delicious dishes, your little ones will learn valuable cooking skills while having a blast. Held at the Burford Community Centre from 10 am to 12 pm. More information available here.
Paris Lions Club and County of Brant to Light Up Lions Park this Holiday Season!
By Casandra Turnbull
Lions Park Paris will be lit up with festive spirit this year thanks to a joint effort between the Lions Club of Paris and the County of Brant
Starting November 29th with an official Holiday Light kick off, until early January, residents can visit Lions Park to bask in the glow of the holidays The lights will decorate various parts of the park - the Walter Williams Amphitheatre, the playground area, the Paris Community Pool building, the Darin Ayres picnic pavilion and the public washrooms.
Thanks to the generosity of Davey Tree, right beside the amphitheatre a newly planted tree will add additional sparkle, contributing to the park’s holiday charm. County of Brant staff confirmed this was all possible because of a generous donation made by the Paris Lions Club; the idea to decorate the park has been an ongoing discussion for several years.
The Lions Club is equally thrilled with the partnership, another shining example of the strong sense of community pride
“This is just the first year for the lights, so we are starting with a limited budget, which we hope to grow over time, with additional support from the entire community” said Rod Laframboise of the Lions Club of Paris
The idea for the panorama type display originated by long time Lion Club volunteer and Paris resident Ted Bickell. “After retiring my wife Darlene and I started walking daily through Lions Park, which sparked the idea of a beautiful nighttime lights display,” Bickell explained. “After conversations with fellow walkers and the support of the Paris Lions Club that led to discussions with the County of Brant.”
The lights will be officially turned on during a public kick off celebration at Lions Park on Friday, November 29th from 6 pm to 8 pm. The lights will be on each night from dusk until 11 pm until early January.
Any individual, community group or organization that is interested in sponsorship opportunities to light the park for years to come, can reach out to Jake Cerson at 519442-7268 More information on sponsorship opportunities will be available in the new year, so stay tuned for a future update!
COMMUNITY NEWS
Kettering Opens at Rebel & Royal in Downtown Paris
Paris, Ontario Kettering brings a thoughtfully curated collection of art and goods to Rebel & Royal, now open at 119 Grand River St N in the heart of downtown Paris.
Offering Canadian-made, sustainable products, Kettering features comforting self-care essentials like mala the brand candles, BKIND bath and body products, and a selection of
items perfect for gifting
The collection features pressed flower art in both new and vintage frames, along with
custom orders to preserve sentimental flowers from weddings, anniversaries, and life’s most cherished moments
For more information reach out to owner/artist Kailey Jayne at hello@kettering.ca or visit their website at www.kettering.ca
Visit Rebel & Royal to explore Kettering’s beautiful selections, just in time for the holiday season!
Submitted photo
Paris Optimist Skate Park expansion underway
Please be advised that the Paris Skate Park construction began Thursday, November 7 and will last approximately one month. Crews will work to keep the current skate park open during construction. The County of Brant asks those using the skate park during this time to follow posted directions and be aware of construction vehicles and crews in the area. For more information about skate parks in the County of Brant, visit brant.ca/SkateParks. The Syl Apps Optimist Skatepark was constructed in 2012 – a project spearheaded by the Paris Optimist Club. It’s a well-utilized park for residents of all ages. When it was originally created, budget constraints prevented plans from including a bowl type feature. This new $245,000 expansion will include a new concrete bowl feature.
PARIS REMEMBERS
Paris Remembrance Day Ceremony Details
By Casandra Turnbull
On Monday, residents will gather to honour and remember Canada’s veterans at a Remembrance Day ceremony at the Cenotaph in downtown Paris.
The Colour Party will march in, from Broadway Street to the Cenotaph, at 10:45 am to signal the start of the service. The Sgt-atarms is Carrie Moran, with Mark Ford as the Parade Commander. The County of Brant OPP will have the roads blocked off throughout the service while residents pay their respects and remember the sacrifice veterans made during the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War and the war in Afghanistan
Dale Kitchen will MC the service, which will begin with a dedication at 10:55 am, followed by O ‘Canada sung by Jennifer Budd, Last Post performed by Geoff Adeney and two minutes of silence. Jennifer will also sing O God Our Help in Ages Past and close the ceremony with God Save the King.
Ethan Leduc will be the ceremonial piper, and both the Ayr Paris Band and Paris/Port Dover Pipe Band will be in attendance. Students from Holy Family School will recite John McCrae’s famous poem In Flanders Fields.
Prior to the ceremony, in the interest of saving time, Service Clubs and Churches will attend at 10 am to place their wreaths During the Ceremony, the following wreaths will be placed in memory or representing World War 1 Veterans (by Earl Macdonald), World War 2 Veterans (by Henry Foster), Federal government (by Teresa Perscival), Provincial Government (by Milan Novakovic), County of Brant (by Mayor David Bailey), Korean Veterans (by Bud Keeton), Hong Kong Veterans (by Barry Humphrey), Canadian
Pictures from the 2023 Remembrance Day ceremony at the Paris Cenotaph, captured by the Paris Independent’s Michelle Malvaso
Armed Forces (by Andy Moran), Canadian Airborne (by Andy Lear), Zone B 2, Branch 29 Paris Legion (by Roy Haggart), OPP and Police Services Board (by John Peirce), County of Brant Firefighters (by Darren Watson), Paris Fire Fighter Club (by Mike Suski), Paramedics (by Kevin Robinson), Girl Guides, Scouts and all local schools. You can show your appreciation for our armed forces and veterans by contributing to this year’s Poppy Campaign, which raises money for provincial and federal programs, as well as local community projects and funds. Campaign boxes are placed around town for donations. “We would like to thank all the volunteers, veterans, county council and the public for the fantastic support the Legion receives in Paris,” said Branch 29 President Roy Haggart
PARIS REMEMBERS
Two World Wars changed the Town of Paris Forever
In the years leading up to 1914, the people of Paris viewed war as the ultimate adventure They associated war with historic triumphs like the Plains of Abraham, Queenston Heights, Waterloo, and Trafalgar moments when soldiers earned honour and the civilian population celebrated their victories vicariously Military events were intertwined with social gatherings and grand spectacle. In 1912, the establishment of the 25th Brant Dragoons company in Paris and the conversion of the old Central School into an armory reflected this connection.
On the night of August 4, 1914, news reached Paris between nine and ten o'clock that war had been declared between Great Britain and Germany In response, the Citizens' Band gathered opposite the fire hall and began playing patriotic songs. The stirring notes of the national anthem, "God Save the King," and other familiar tunes drew a large crowd. The people joined in singing and cheering enthusiastically. Later, the Boy Scout Bugle Band paraded through the town, accompanied by torchbearers The cheers for King George V echoed continuously. Alfred Scott, a plumber, local scoutmaster, and reservist in the 2nd Battalion of the West Durham Light Infantry, became the first Paris resident to be called for active duty. His departure on August 6, 1914, was marked with a grand send-off by the
citizens of Paris. During the war, the Canadian government provided a monthly separation allowance of $20 to the wives of enlisted soldiers. Husbands were required to give half of their monthly pay, approximately $16.50, to support their families. However, if there were children, the families often faced financial hardship.
To alleviate the hardships faced by soldiers' families, the Patriotic League was established in August 1914 with the aim of raising funds Shortly after the war began, the league provided support to ten families in Paris. Over time, the league managed to raise a total of $1,940, continuously collecting funds throughout the war Members of the Prince of Wales Chapter, Daughters of the Empire, tirelessly sought subscriptions for the purchase of a machine gun, which would accompany the Paris boys to the front lines. Mr. and Mrs. John Penman also made a generous donation of another machine gun. In Paris, $2,001.13 was
collected to purchase a MotoAmbulance to be given to the Red Cross Ditty bags, packed with handknitted socks, toiletries, cigarettes, and treats, were sent to the soldiers who eagerly awaited these thoughtful gifts. The first high explosive shell manufactured in Paris was proudly displayed in the window of J H Fisher and Sons store, showcasing the town's contribution to the war effort.
At around 4 a m on November 11, 1918, the news arrived that an armistice had been signed to end the Great War. However, this information was withheld until 6 a.m. when it was officially announced to the citizens of Paris Bells rang, whistles blew, and people poured out onto the streets to celebrate. By 8 a.m., Mayor Robinson addressed the crowd with a few brief words, followed by hymns, prayers, and the National Anthem It was a moment of gratitude and jubilation for the people of Paris.
Continued page 14
PARIS REMEMBERS
A collage of 66 vignettes of men in World War I military uniforms with their name listed below. In the centre "1915 Paris" is flanked by two crossed Union Jacks. The collage is signed on the bottom right corner “C. Plomby Paris”.
Name of individuals listed from the top row to the bottom, left to right:
Top row: T. Campbell; G. Ross; C. McKay; I. McLaughlin; E. Barber; H. Simons; J. Thompson; A. Henlon; G. Walker; A. Baker; J. Hopkins.
Second Row: T. N. Brown; G. P. Murphy; C. Cutt; T. W. Billings; H. Priest; P. Gill; R. Kyle; W. Mears; Sergt. P.W. Knowles; W. Rowe; J. Brown.
Third Row: W. Pearson; J. Brewis; T. Corall; W. Nottall; C. McKie; H. Brown; J. B. Findley; Sergt. H. Atkins.
Fourth Row: J. Blaney; W. Richardson; R. Pearce; J. Heenan; J. W. Chapman[?]; H. Sharp; S. Stead; W. Stewart; W. Hastings; J. Blaney.
Fifth Row: B. Stevenson; V. Waring; L. B. Moore; E. Walters; R. Holmes; W. T. Burnette; A. Gibbons; J. G. Cand; A. Stevenson. Sixth Row: A. Peebles; H. Bestwick; J. E. Hall; K. Robinson; H. Verity; T. Brown; H. Herman; H. Hartley.
Seventh Row: H. Mattingley; W. A. Parker; E. V. Barker; A. Hitchman; F. Rousell; F. Hitchman; H. Hostey; R. Davidson.; R. H. Sass.
Continued page 15
PARIS REMEMBERS
Sunday, September 3, 1939, dawned in Paris with warm sunshine and a gentle breeze meandering through the bustling business section of Grand River Street. As the day unfolded, a special edition of the Brantford Expositor paper, carried by the breeze, scattered rumpled sheets along the sidewalks and roadway. The usually vibrant area appeared desolate, devoid of cars, pedestrians, or any lively discussions The atmosphere exuded melancholy and a sense of foreboding. The Paris Star later reported that Parisians greeted the British declaration of war on September 3 with somber silence How different it was from August 4, 1914! There were no exuberant crowds, no blaring bands or bugle corps, no thrilling parades, no impassioned speeches, no prayers for swift victory and the humiliation of the enemy. In 1939, Parisians seemed apprehensive, likely influenced by the stories they had read about the First World War and the realistic films they had seen, such as "All Quiet on the Western Front" and "Journey's End." In November 1939, the valedictorian at Paris High School aptly expressed this sentiment in her speech, stating, "The horrors of war haunt us "
On August 4, 1914, Parisians eager for the latest news and eager to celebrate imminent victories flocked downtown to read telegraph bulletins posted in front of the town newspaper office. However, on September 3, 1939, the majority remained in their homes, listening to their radios, devoid of any inclination for cheer or song The only notable similarity between the two days was that, following both declarations of war, many Parisians, especially the older generation, believed that Canadians
Pic 1: Harry Wise & his family listening to the radio at 79 Grand River St. apt. above their store
Pic 2: V E Day celebrations on 8 May 1945 taking place in Paris, Ontario There is a large crowd of people downtown Paris. There is a band playing. There is a car on the street, among the crowd has two large speakers on its roof
were primarily fighting on behalf of Great Britain, the King, and the Empire While they held a deep loyalty to Canada, their racial origins and classroom indoctrination nurtured a stronger allegiance to Britain and the monarchy. This sentiment was evident in the September 7, 1939, edition of the Paris Star, which prominently displayed a large picture of George VI, the British monarch, rather than the Canadian prime minister. The headline in bold letters read, "The King Calls!" Below the picture, the editor placed the war speech of George VI, emphasizing the British connection. Interestingly, the official Canadian declaration of war
was made by the British GovernorGeneral of Canada, John Buchan, representing the King There were no celebrations, no official send-offs for volunteers, no band music, parades, speeches, or crisp $10.00 bills. In fact, when the first high-school boy enlisted, there was no ceremony at the school, and some of his fellow pupils expressed their lack of enthusiasm, commenting that he must be "nuts" or that he would soon regret his decision. Sadly, the future of that particular volunteer will never be realized, as he was killed during the Dieppe raid, causing anguish for his family and friends. Paris will never forget our brave and our fallen
COMMUNITY NEWS
Pink Triangle Press Honours Paris’ Own Trailblazer
At the first-ever #PTPpinkawards, Pink Triangle Press recognized the remarkable contributions of Canadian trailblazer Salah Bachir, celebrating his decades-long commitment to
activism within the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Salah Bachir, a stalwart advocate for over 40 years, has been a driving force behind numerous initiatives that have significantly impacted the community Noteworthy among his achievements is his leadership in the 519 Capital Campaign and his enduring role as a lifetime patron of the organization Additionally, Bachir is a founding member of both the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research and St Joe's Health Centre in Toronto.
In 2017, Bachir's unwavering dedication was internationally acknowledged when he received the
SPORTS
prestigious International Volunteer Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals This accolade recognized his pivotal role in raising substantial funds amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars for causes spanning AIDS research, healthcare, the arts, human rights, and the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
His outstanding contributions have not gone unnoticed, as Bachir has been decorated with esteemed honors, including the Order of Canada, the Order of Ontario, and five honorary doctorates, underscoring his significant impact and influence within Canadian society.
Paris Billiards Beat at Sharkey’s: Highlights of the Week
By Scoop Stewart
In the latest round of "Paris Billiards Beat at Sharkey's," the pair that emerged victorious, showcasing their skills and finesse on the felt. Congratulations to L. Heath back to back champ, and J.. Flood for clinching the top spot this week.
Noteworthy performances were also observed among the runners-up, as A. Attlebery and W. Dafoe secured the title demonstrating their resilience and competitive spirit.
Winners of Losers title went to C. Whelan & G Graham
The coveted Play of the Week honour goes to P Fergus, who managed a rare feat by not missing a single shot although, in an unusual twist, this streak did not translate into successful shots either, as Fergus didn’t take any shots, rather he sat this one out to do administrative duties.
Recognized as the standout Player of the Week is C. Whelan, whose remarkable turnaround from last week's standings to securing a spot in the semi-finals with teammate G. Graham and coming tantalizingly close to the final match epitomizes the spirit of perseverance and
improvement in the game
The Quote of the Week, "Keep your balls on the table," serves as a humorous yet poignant reminder of the importance of precision and control in the game of billiards,
Special thanks are once again extended to Dan (owner) and Katie (hostess with the mostess), the dynamic duo behind the scenes at Sharkey's Billiards & Bar in Brantford, for their unwavering dedication and hospitality, ensuring that each event is a memorable and enjoyable experience for all participants
Seesaw battle between Paris and BCI in Junior Volleyball playoffs
PARIS SPORTS REPORT with George Le Gresley
At the beginning of the week, only two fall sports teams remained: the Junior and Senior Boys' Volleyball teams.
In second place with a 6-4 record, the Junior team met third place BCI, with a 5-5 record, in semifinal play at home in Paris. In game 1 of the best-of-five match, Paris won, leading the game from the first point to the last The secret to winning volleyball is to win points when you serve, and in game 1, they won 18 of 25 points on their serves. The score for game 1 was 25-15. Game 2 was back-and-forth, with each team taking turns scoring a point until the score was tied at 1212. Then, BCI went on a run, scoring 13 points, and the Panthers scored just two, unable to get a side out The final score of game 2 was BCI 25, Paris 14 Game 3, the Mustangs simply dominated the Panthers, winning the game 3, 25-16. Game 4 started off much like the previous two games until the
Panthers seemed to take a turn when they were down 6-13 It seemed like the Paris side was playing like the team that won game 1, catching up to the Mustangs at 19-19. It was a seesaw battle, and the game was tied at 21-21. BCI took control, leading 23-24, and won the game and match 3 games to 1.
The season is not over, as the Panthers had a CWOSSA qualifying game Friday. If the team doesn’t lose focus and play like they did in game 1, they might be a force to be dealt with moving on.
Watch for an update on the Junior CWOSSA qualifier in next week’s Paris Independent!
PDHS Senior Volleyball team upsets first place St. John’s to cruise to finals against BCI
The senior side finished the season in third place with a 6-6 win/loss record They travelled to St John’s, who were tied with BCI for first place with an impressive 111 record The Panthers were definitely the underdogs, having lost the two games they played during the season.
In Game 1, the Panthers came out with energy to win 2516, leading most of the game and making big plays.
In Game 2, the Eagles came back to win 25-19. The Panthers seemed to lose their focus, making unforced errors. The match is now tied at one game each.
Game 3 was a tighter match from the first point to last, with the two teams trading leads until the game was tied at 25-25, and where to win a game, a team needed to win by 2 points. The Panthers take the game 28-26 and a two-game to one lead in the best of 5 matches
Game 4 was a repeat of game 3, where the score went back and forth in a heavily contested game until it was tied at 23-23. St John’s scored the next 2 points to win 25-23.
Game 5, the tie-breaking game, is a 15-point game
The teams tied at 6-6 was a turning point for the Panthers, as they took the following 6 points to take a 12-6.
Continued on page 19
PARIS WOLFPACK
SCOREBOARD
Nov 2 -
November 2–U15LL#2 lose 2-0 against Burford Coyotes
November 3–U18LL#1 lose 7-2 against Langton Leafs
November 4–U13LL#1 lose 7-1 against Tillsonburg Tornadoes
November 4 –U11LL#3 ?? 3-3 against Waterford Wildcats
November 4–U18LL#2 ?? 5-1 against Tillsonburg Tornadoes 3
November 5–U11LL#2 win 2-0 against Waterford Wildcats
Nov 7
November 5–U13LL#1 lose 4-3 against Port Dover Pirates 2
November 6–U11LL#1 win 2-1 against Langton Leafs
November 7–U11LL#1 ties 1-1 against Delhi Rockets 2
November 7–U11LL#2 loses 4-1 against Ingersoll Express 1
November 7–U15LL#2 loses 6-0 against Ingersoll Express 1
November 7–U18LL#3 loses 6-4 against Simcoe Warriors 1
From that point, the Panthers cruised to a 15-9 win and a 3-2 upset win over the St John’s Eagles
Next up for the Paris Panthers was a trip to BCI yesterday afternoon, which, like St John’s, had an 11-1 season win/loss record.
At first site, the first thing you’ll notice about the Mustang size is the height of the players, much taller than the Paris side, plus a large BCI crowd were in the stands.
Game 1 belonged to BCI, who cruised to a 25-12 win The Panthers just couldn’t score when they had the serve, scoring only 4 points with the rest on side outs
Game 2 the Panthers started the game serving 5 straight points and a five to zero lead. The Paris side kept the lead until BCI tied the game 18-18. From there BCI cruised to a 25-20 lead and took a game 2 win and 2-0 lead n games
Game 3 the Panthers started the game like the previous game and was on top of the score leading on scoreboard until BCI tied them at 24-24. At that point the Mustangs scored the next 2 points to win the game and match 3-0
The Panthers gave their best and have nothing to be ashamed about their season In the playoff they had to battle two 11-1 teams and showed up to compete against a side that was taller than their own. Congratulations on a great season!
BRANT BATTALION HOCKEY
SCOREBOARD – Nov 1- Nov 6
November 1–U10A Battalions lose 2-1 against St. Thomas Jr Stars
November 1–U13B Battalions lose 4-1 against East Elgin Attack
November 1– U21 Jr. Titans lose 8-0 against New Hamburg Huskies
November 1–U15A Battalions lose 6-1 against Strathroy Jr.
Rockets A
November 2–U11B Battalions wins 4-2 against Delhi Rockets B2
November 2–U12A Battalions wins 7-1 against Strathroy Jr
Rockets A
November 2–U15A Battalions lose 2-1 against St Marys
November 2–U13A Battalions lose 7-1 against Strathroy Jr
Rockets A
November 2–U21 Jr Titans lose 4-2 against South Oxford Storm
November 2–U15B Battalions lose 4-2 against Norfolk Knights
November 3–U11A Battalions win 7-2 against New Hamburg
Huskies
November 3–U13A Battalions lose 5-1 against New Hamburg Huskies
November 3–U13B Battalions tie 2-2 against Norfolk Knights
November 3–U12A Battalions lose 9-3 against St. Thomas Jr Stars
November 3–U15B Battalions lose 9-0 against Norfolk Knights
November 3–U21 Jr. Titans lose 5-4 against Beverly Bandits
November 3 –U18A Jr Titans lose 5-1 against St. Thomas Jr Stars
November 4–U14A Battalions lose 2-1 against Mt Brydges Cougars
November 5–U10A Battalions wins 5-2 against New Hamburg
Huskies
November 6–U18B Battalions lose 4-1 against Tavistock Titans
Media Release – County of Brant Invites Community Input on the Development of a Public Engagement Framework Policy
County of Brant, ON – The County of Brant is inviting residents, businesses, and community organizations to provide feedback that will help shape the County’s first Public Engagement Framework and Policy. This initiative aims to strengthen connections between the County and its residents through public engagement by ensuring that policies, services, and projects reflect the community’s collective needs and values.
"Your input is essential to building an even better Brant," said County of Brant Mayor, David Bailey "When we respectfully and constructively engage with one another, we create a stronger, more connected community. I encourage everyone to participate and share their ideas."
The framework will guide how the County of Brant involves residents in future decision-making through various engagement efforts. Residents are encouraged to take the survey, attend in-person engagement events, or submit their ideas by November 25 for a chance to win
County swag and gift cards
"Your feedback will shape how we engage moving forward,” said County of Brant’s Public Consultation Specialist, Dana Steane "This framework is about more than gathering feedback it’s about ensuring that County residents who want to participate by sharing their thoughts and ideas have an opportunity to, and that our engagement efforts are equitable, accessible, and impactful."
Survey responses and public input will directly inform the framework and policy’s development
How to Participate:
•Visit EngageBrant.ca/Engagement to complete an online survey by Monday, November 25, 2024 at 4:30 pm
•Printed Surveys are available at the main County of Brant Customer Service locations until Monday, November 25, 2024 at 4:30 pm.
•Post your ideas on EngageBrant.ca/Engagement abo ut what we can do to improve engagement in the County of Brant.
Engagement closes on Monday, November 25, 2024, at 4:30 pm.
Share your thoughts in person Join us to share your thoughts on how we can improve public engagement in the County, chat with County of Brant Public Engagement and Communications staff, and enjoy refreshments
• Let's talk about engagement in the County: Open House, Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm, Wincey Mills Market, 31 Mechanic Street, Paris
•Call 519.44BRANT (519.442.7268) or 1.855.44BRANT (1 855 442 7268) to complete the survey over the phone.
• Coffee and Conversations: A senior's perspective on engagement in the County, Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Syl Apps Community Centre, 51 William Street, Paris
• Coffee and Community Conversations, Saturday, November 16, 2024, 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, Burford Community Centre, Mary Lowes Room, 14 Potter Drive, Burford and Saturday, November 23, 2024, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, County of Brant LibrarySt George Branch, 78 Main St North, St. George
The Eras Gala celebrates 50 years of Lansdowne Children's Centre
Media Release – Lansdowne Children’s Centre will transform the banquet hall at the Branford Golf and Country Club on Saturday, November 16 into an immersive experience of exhibits recognizing the past 50plus years of Brantford and area’s support for children and youth with special needs
Jennifer White, Executive Director of Lansdowne Children’s Centre Foundation, expressed her team's excitement for the celebration. “We’re thrilled to offer this opportunity to share the incredible history of Lansdowne Children’s Centre and come together with community members to recognize the 50th anniversary of our region’s children’s treatment centre, and all the people who are a part of its legacy - staff, clients, volunteers, and donors.”
The Eras Gala event will open at 5 p.m., and promises an interactive opportunity with local archives, including videos, photos, equipment and news clippings reaching back to the 1950s and the formation of the Brant County Cerebral Palsy Association, a precursor to Lansdowne Children’s Centre.
“We have uncovered some fantastic treasures during our anniversary efforts this year. We have digitized old film
reels, dusted off incredible photo albums, and even rediscovered a past promotional video from the 1980s on a VHS cassette,” said White.
Guests of the gala will be taken through the many eras of Lansdowne Children’s Centre, including pre-Lansdowne organizations like the Rotary Crippled Children’s Centre, which was founded in the Brantford General Hospital in 1960 with the Rotary Club of Brantford. Rotarians have played a large role in the development of support for children and youth with special needs in our community, including the founding of the annual Rotary Classic Run, which recently celebrated its 40th anniversary.
“We also have current and past clients who will be performing, sharing their artwork and telling their Lansdowne stories,” said White. "The community support has been incredible, with a wonderful collection of items for our silent auction "
The gala will be raising awareness and funds in support of Lansdowne’s expansion efforts, addressing the growing population in the region and the overwhelming demands for services and support. Earlier in the year, MPP Brantford-Brant Will Bouma was joined by Michael
Parsa, Social Services, at Lansdowne’s Brantford site to announce the province’s commitment to building a new children’s treatment facility in Brantford
The LCC Dance Crew, a group created by youth attending recreation programs at Lansdowne Children’s Centre, are scheduled to perform at The Eras Gala on November 16 at the Brantford Golf and Country Club. The event is a celebration of the children’s centre’s 50th anniversary.
Photo courtesy of Lansdown Children’s Centre
Four keys to financial resilience when your life changes
Life transitions, such as the loss of a spouse, divorce or the sale of a home or business, often bring significant financial and estate planning implications. The following recommendations are for individuals and families preparing for or facing these transitions.
1. Build a strong support system
The first step to take when facing a major life transition involves assembling a team of experts who will best serve your specific needs. The team may differ depending on the situation, but it almost always includes an estate planning specialist, a tax professional and an investment advisor. It may also include lawyers or experts specializing in divorce, the sale of a business or other situations.
Although you may feel that you’re equipped to handle these issues without professional guidance, the lack of such guidance can lead to costly mistakes. Having your own lawyer or financial advisor is the best way to ensure that your interests are protected
Major life transitions can be extremely challenging. These strategies can help you to be more prepared and minimize the stress involved.
2. Dial back your stress with advanced preparation
The stress that comes with significant transitions can make tasks like managing financial obligations seem almost impossible This is especially true when someone loses a spouse or parent.
Too many people react in response to major life changes rather than preparing ahead of time with their loved ones to establish a good understanding of their family’s financial picture Sharing information about your financial circumstances with your family in advance can help alleviate pain points during already stressful and emotional times. There are always exceptions, but the more
information your spouse or children have, the better equipped they’ll be.
Regardless of the transition you may face, it’s important to gain control over your financial picture as soon as possible. This means cataloguing your finances: do an inventory of your assets and know how much you have and spend And, although it may be tempting, try to avoid making significant financial decisions in the middle of a transition. Most experts suggest waiting about a year before making any such decisions. Thus, don’t sell your home, move to a new city or change jobs. You need time to live in and assess your new reality before you can make decisions clearly.
Continued on page 23
FINANCIAL MATTERS
3. Review and re-establish financial goals
Making informed decisions starts with identifying your goals Working with a financial advisor can help you identify your priorities and determine what assets you want to keep and assess the financial and emotional value placed on those assets.
As with any financial matter, it’s important to understand that not all dollar amounts are created equal For example, receiving a second home in a divorce settlement which has significant ongoing expenses and a built-in capital gain may be less financially beneficial than receiving the equivalent value in cash. If you sell the home, your after-tax proceeds could be far less than the sale price.
The same is true in the case of selling a business. You need to understand the significance of the sale in the context of your own personal goals Ask yourself:
* Does it make sense to sell now or later, based on where the business is headed or your own needs?
* If you sell now, could you afford to live on the proceeds for the rest of your life?
* Would it allow you to carry out any legacy plans you might want
to put in place?
Business owners are often surprised to realize how much their own personal cash flows are impacted after the sale of a business Asking these questions and running projections of various scenarios can help you narrow in on the best course of action.
4. Keep an eye on your estate plan
When life changes, you need to review and reconsider your estate plan You also need to make sure your investment accounts, real estate holdings and insurance arrangements reflect any changes in ownership. Beneficiary designations for retirement assets and life insurance policies need to be reviewed and possibly updated.
We have seen some difficult scenarios where estate plans aren’t updated after a divorce or a death in the family, or additional children and grandchildren are born after a plan is put in place and the plan either didn’t take that possibility into account or was not updated. A significant change in financial position can also require you to change your plan. Following through on the details now can save your family from financial complications and maybe even legal battles in the future.
Lastly, you need to keep track of changes in the lives of others you
may rely on. This includes people you’ve named as guardians, agents, executors or trustees for your family It also includes your team of professional advisors At some point, everyone’s situation evolves, and what works today likely will not work or be the same at some future point in time.
You can achieve financial resilience and peace of mind by staying informed, being proactive in estate and financial matters, and having open and honest communication with your family and advisors.
Written and published by IG Wealth Management as a general source of information only. Not intended as a solicitation to buy or sell specific investments, or to provide tax, legal or investment advice Seek advice on your specific circumstances from an IG Wealth Management Consultant.
Jacob Gaudet is an Associate Consultant on the wealth advisory team Gaudet Group Private Wealth Management He helps clients get more out of their money, so they can get more out of life Jacob specializes in six key areas: Investment, Retirement, Estate, Tax, and Insurance, and Mortgage Planning. With more than 60 years of combined experience, Gaudet Group Private Wealth Management is committed to making clients’ interests their top priority Do you have questions you’d like Jacob to Answer? Email him at jacob gaudet@igpwm ca or check out his website at GaudetGroup ca! Investors Group Financial Services Inc
Costco Brantford Grand Opening Draws Crowds for Exciting Deals!
By Chris Whelan
In a momentous occasion for the Brant/Brantford community, the muchanticipated Grand Opening of Costco Brantford took place yesterday with a vibrant ribbon-cutting ceremony at 6:30 AM Residents gathered in droves to celebrate the arrival of this new warehouse and to partake in the thrilling deals awaiting them inside!
"After a long wait, we are thrilled to finally open our doors to the public and welcome shoppers from both near and far," expressed a proud Costco Brantford representative. "Let the shopping extravaganza begin!"
The excitement doesn't stop there as Costco Brantford promises to be a hub of activity and a go-to destination for all your shopping needs.
Key Dates and Timings for Your Calendar:
- Regular Store Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM - 8:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Gas Bar Operational Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 6:30 AM - 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 6:30 AM - 6:30 PM
ASTROLOGY
Aries: March 21 - April 19 (Fire) –You will leave no stone unturned to discover your partner’s or potential partner’s true feelings, perhaps even your true feelings Privacy is important now Perhaps you wish to keep a relationship secret or uncover someone else’s secrets Affairs are also possible, and a profound new romance could begin
Taurus: April 20 - May 20 (Earth) –If single, you may become more determined to meet someone. A new romance now would be intense and life-transforming An existing relationship can become more passionate, intense or profound through sexual exploration or sharing secrets You can also dynamically express your hidden creative talents
Gemini: May 21 - June 20 (Air)You should feel more deeply about loved ones, especially your partner. Intimate relationships benefit from an increased desire for love and affection A mysterious sexual attractiveness is ideal for dating You may be drawn to a particular fashion style, cosmetics, jewelry or tattoo
Cancer: June 21 – July 22 22 (Water) – Increased confidence and self-belief make this an excellent time to push the limits and experience life to the fullest Things you begin now should turn out well in the long run, especially those that make you healthier, wealthier and happier Travel, studies, investments, business and legal matters are favored You deserve to feel proud of your achievements
Leo: July 23 - August 22 (Fire) –You can look forward to material and spiritual growth with opportunities to increase wealth This is an ideal time to start new projects and reach your goals There should be little or no resistance, and others will be generous and hospitable toward you You could also expand your horizons through further education or travel
Virgo: August 23 - September 22 (Earth) – A harmonious balance between flirty sexuality and affectionate love makes you especially attractive This is an excellent time to find the perfect match and improve existing relationships You also have great energy, courage, and focus on pouring into anything related to creativity, beauty, making money, and initiating new projects.
Libra: September 23 - October 22 (Air). An existing friend or partner could also benefit from the new relationship with win-win situations, leading to greater trust and faith You will learn and grow from others now This is a time of goodwill, generosity, and charity But happiness and contentment probably won’t come through gambling.
Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 (Water) – A more powerful level of attraction, both emotional and sexual, makes this an excellent time for dating Instant attraction, karmic relationships, and falling head over heels are all possible High self-esteem and selflove also make this a good time to make positive transformations in existing relationships.
Aquarius: January 20 –February 18 (Air) – An existing relationship could undergo a positive transformation with more passion and commitment A new relationship would be intense and may involve an affair or other complications Obsessions and fascinations are possible now, and not only in relationships
Pisces: February 19 - March 20 (Water) – you should become more passionate about love and the things you love Whether it be another person, a hobby, or anything else, you will become more deeply involved in whatever you love You should enjoy increased popularity due to intense subconscious attraction felt by others A new profound relationship is possible This is a good time to test the level of loyalty and commitment in a love relationship and friendships
Sagittarius: November 22December 21 (Fire) – Your tender and sensual side compliments your raw passion and sex appeal to make you highly attractive Increased charisma and popularity make socializing more enjoyable and exciting So this is an excellent time for dating, making new friends, entertaining, and creative work
Capricorn: December 22 - January 19 (Earth) – Good luck comes as opportunities for personal, professional, and spiritual growth. You may be the beneficiary of compliments, gifts, or money This is an excellent time to begin new studies or travel long distances New relationships, investments, or the beginning of any new projects are favored
Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford For Saturday, November 9, 2024
Venom: The Last Dance
Standard 1:00p.m. 4:20p.m.
3D 7:10p.m. 9:45p.m.
The Wild Robot
Standard 1:10p.m. 3:50p.m.
3D 6:20p.m. 9:00p.m.
Heretic
Standard 1:30p.m. 4:10p.m. 7:00p.m. 9:40p.m.
Smile 2
Standard 12:40p.m. 3:40p.m. 6:40p.m. 9:35p.m.
Here
Standard 1:40p.m. 4:15p.m. 6:50p.m. 9:30p.m.
SinghamAgain
Standard 1:20p.m. 5:00p.m. 8:30p.m.
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3
Standard 12:50p.m. 4:30p.m. 8:00p.m.
Piece by Piece
Standard 2:20p.m. 4:40p.m. 7:15p.m. 9:45p.m.
Paddington
Standard 12:00p.m.
GATES OPEN AT 6 MOVIE STARTS AT 7 (SUNDAY GATES OPEN AT 5 MOVIE STARTS AROUND 5:40)
NOW OPEN
FRI-SUN. & CARLOAD
THURSDAY