The Paris Independent for Saturday September 30th, 2023

Photo submitted by Caroline Casey

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 Public Schools:

Paris High: 519-442-4477

North Ward: 519-442-2311

Paris Central: 519-442-4163

Cobblestone: 519-442-2500

Paris Catholic Schools:

Holy Family: 519-442-5333

Sacred Heart: 519-442-4443

Paris Councillors & Mayor:

Mayor - David Bailey

Ward 2 - Steve Howes

Ward 2 - Lukas Oakley

Ward 3 - John Bell

Ward 3 - John Peirce

Paris Customer Service Office 66 Grand River St. N. 519-442-7268

Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Main Services include:

- Accounts Receivable invoice payments

- Blue Boxes and Composters (pre-arrange pick up of composter)

- Brant Transit punch cards purchase and pick up

- Building Permits may be submitted and Building staff consulted

- Calendar pick up (free)

- Commissioner of Oath is by appointment only

- Dog license and tag

- Dog Park membership and key

- Parking ticket payment

- Property Tax payments and inquiries

- Public Works permits may be submitted

- Use the computer to meet with a virtual Planner to ask questions.

- Water testing sample bottles may be picked up. Drop off water testing samples on the last Wednesday of the month before 2 pm at the Burford Customer Service Office

Brant Sports Complex & Other Facility Booking

519-442-1944

226-387-2490

519-442-4955

226-216-3037

519-209-2277

519-442-7134

Administration & Bylaw: 519-442-7268

Open Monday - Sunday, 8:30 am - 8:00 pm.

Main services include:

- Dog Park membership and key

- Dog license and tag

- Tennis Court membership and key

- Camp registration and recreation program registration

Articles, Events & Story ideas, please submit by email to:

stories@theparisindependent.com

Publisher

Managing Editor

Advertising Sales

Photographer

News Reporter

News Reporter

News Reporter

Chris Whelan

Casandra Turnbull

Chris Whelan

Michelle Malvaso

Carolina Saenz

Bailey Zimmer

Rubyyy Jones

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STATEMENT

We are an independently owned organization made up of like minded volunteers from within our community with the main purpose of providing Paris and area with a trustworthy and reliable source of local news. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of everything we publish, we regret any errors that may occur. We limit our liability to that of printing a retraction upon notification of such errors in the next available publication. Our mail and Email addresses are listed below:

BURFORD FALL FAIR & DEMOLITION DERBY – Thanksgiving weekend – October 7 – 9, Burford Fairgrounds, 6 Park Ave, Burford. Line up of events and activities available online.

14TH ANNUAL WOOLSTOCK

Saturday, October 14th, 9 am to 4 pm at the Paris Fairgrounds Admission is $8 and under 12 years of age is free. Vendors, demonstrations, workshops and food trucks More information available at www.woolstockon.com

PARIS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY NEXT MEETING:

October 4th - General meeting at the Paris fairgrounds at 7:00 pm starting with social time. The guest speaker is Mackenzie Sheppard, she is the Forestry and Horticulture Coordinator for the County of Brant.

Mackenzie will be speaking about county projects and the importance of pollinator and native plants.

OPP FIGHTING FRAUD FOR SENIORS- Presented by the Brant North Community Safety Group on Thursday, October 5 at 10 am at the St George Fire Hall, light lunch provided. Space limited. RSVP required 519-448-1442

DR JOHN VANDERTUIN CONCERT: As part of the Paris Baptist Church’s 175th Anniversary, ‘Concert of Praise,’ on Saturday, October 14th at 7 pm at Paris Baptist Church, 25 Broadway Street in downtown Paris (corner of William and Broadway) Featuring the well-known blind musician Dr. John Vandertuin on the pipe organ and piano along with vocal accompaniment by Dr Vandertuin No admission charge. A free will offering will be held for Dr. Vandertuin.

SPOOKY EVENTS

HOWL-O-WEEN PARTY – Sunday October 15, at 10 am at Children’s Safety Village of Brant. 1st Annual Howl-o-Ween Pawty by Autism Dog Services. Enjoy a family and dog friendly day from 10-2 with a parade of costumes, contests, petting zoo, entertainment, giant photo booth, vendors and so much more. Entry price: donation to ADS. For more info contact Adele, Fund Development Manager at adele@autismdogservices.ca or 519-774-0267

HALLOWEEN DANCE & AUCTION – October 19th at the Paris Fairgrounds beginning at 8 pm. Tickets are $20 each or 2 for $30. Auction preview at 4 pm. Proceeds from event will go to the competitive dance teams at C.O.R.E Dance Project Studio. More information provided online

A $150,000 OTF Grant delivers breath of fresh air to Five Oaks Centre

MEDIA RELEASE - Paris, ON – On Friday, September 29th , Five Oaks Centre welcomed a representative of local MPP Will Bouma to discuss the impactful $150,000 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).

This funding played a vital role in the recovery from COVID-19's effects. Completed this summer, the project significantly improved air quality, safety, and environmental sustainability by upgrading HVAC systems in the 70-yearold main building as well as retreat houses. “Curating a space for personal and spiritual growth and respecting a diversity of experiences is what Five Oaks is all about”, said Brantford-Brant MPP Will Bouma. “I am pleased to be a part of a government that supports an education and retreat centre that offers renewing and transformative individual, group and community experiences through reflection, deep connection and joyful expression.”

The grant allowed Five Oaks to improve the air quality in its building through the funding of a significant, environmentally friendly, and health-conscious upgrades to their HVAC system. These upgrades included transitioning from oil to heat pump systems in heavily used areas such as primary meeting areas, offices, and retreat houses.

"The Centre is thankful for completing this project, reinforcing our commitment to providing a safe, environmentally responsible community space," expressed Michael Shewburg, Executive Director of the Centre. He emphasized, "Some key benefits include safer staff conditions and a secure haven for vulnerable communities,

including Indigenous and Muslim partners, the LGBTQ+ community, and seniors “

Nestled on 117 acres along the Grand River, this intercultural/interfaith Centre offers accommodations, meeting spaces, and amenities for educational, professional, spiritual, wellness, and social events and retreats Five Oaks fosters inclusivity, offering diverse programs rooted in values like hospitality, environmental stewardship, and social justice. It's a sacred space for personal growth, meaningful dialogue, and forging partnerships for a better future. Learn more or host your event at www.fiveoaks.on.ca.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations celebrates 40 years of grant-making in Ontario and making a lasting impact in communities. Last year, OTF invested over $110M into 1,022 community projects and partnerships, which included funding for the Government of Ontario’s Community Building Fund. Visit otf.ca to learn more.

During a recent celebration of a $150,000 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, pictured from left to right, are Michael Shewburg, Five Oaks Executive Director; Bill Leask, Ontario Trillium Foundation Volunteer; Milan Novakovic, EA for MPP Will Bouma; Mallory Biggs, Five Oaks General Manager. Photo submitted by Kailey Stewart

Adult Recreation Therapy Centre reopens in Paris

By Casandra Turnbull

A valuable program that offers many services to adults with compromised health has returned to Paris.

The Adult Recreation Therapy Centre (ARTC) offers people, who are trying to maintain a level of independence, the opportunity to engage in meaningful social, recreational and therapeutic activities. An ARTC satellite program was housed at the Willett in Paris for close to 15 years but was closed in 2019 when the pandemic caused circumstantial changes at the Grand River Street North medical hub. The ARTC program carried on throughout the pandemic operating from its main location in Brantford. On Thursday, September 28th the satellite office “officially” celebrated its return to town, this time in a new location at the Cowan Community Health Hub. After a longer than anticipated hiatus, ARTC’s return to the county gives residents a ‘closer to home’ experience and that is cause for celebration,

say program organizers

“When you see the difference attending an adult day program can make to an individual’s life and that of their care partners, you understand our drive to make it accessible to more people,” said ARTC Executive Director Lori Santilli. ARTC’s move to the

Cowan Community Health Hub is a good fit with the facility’s purpose to offer integrated health services. It’s also a good fit for a missing service desperately required in a rapidly growing and aging community. In 2006 when ARTC was first introduced in Paris, nearly 30% of the folks that utilized the services in Brantford were from the County of Brant That number has certainly grown over the last 15 or more years. A new satellite office in Paris is a great start and if there’s a lot of demand for the services, Santilli said there’s a possibility it could expand from one day a week

to several days, and maybe even more satellite offices throughout Brant County.

“We know there is a need to offer adult day services to residents of the County of Brant and we are thrilled to be able to provide a service closer to home for our clients,” echoes Chris Ayres, program coordinator “Vested in our service is the opportunity for our clients to live their lives to the fullest,” said Ayres, citing ARTC’s LIVE YOUR LIFE motto.

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Shelby McConnell, recreation therapist, with Norma Jean Oreskovich during an Adult Recreation Therapy Centre activity.

SENIOR LIVING

Caroline Casey and Shelby McConnell are the two recreation therapists who will run the County program. They both agree this program gives residents a chance to get out of their homes, socialize and participate in a variety of activities from social to intellectual to therapeutic. It’s also an equally beneficial program for caregivers to give them a few hours of respite.

ARTC is a unique communitybased adult day program for individuals with debilitating diseases such as stroke, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, as well as frail and socially isolated individuals. Services are provided by qualified recreation therapists, kinesiologists, pathologists, and social workers.

ARTC’s core business is the adult day program but offers many more including (some accessible in Brantford only) the Aphasia Program that hosts supportive conversation groups for people living with aphasia because of a stroke or acquired brain injury, the Brain Warrior Advocacy Group, Stroke Recovery Group, the popular S A FE Zone Seniors, a community exercise and falls

prevention program and Care Support Groups amongst others (find a complete list of programs here).

Santilli is proud to recognize that ARTC has always taken an innovative and collaborative approach to its services, which is something that is now promoted and expected in the transformation of today’s healthcare system. Santilli began her career as a recreation therapist at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Brantford. She’s a member of the Brantford Brant Norfolk Community Health Team. She’s been Executive Director of ARTC for over 30 years. The Brantford based ARTC program has operated at several locations since its inception in 1977 Its current location at 58 Easton Road is home to the Aphasia Program, care giver support services, functional exercise programs, foot care clinics, massage therapy clinics (through Mohawk College) and various support groups. ARTC is a not-for-profit organization funded by the HNHB, LHIN and the Brant United Way It’s newest office on Easton Road was a true community

partnership among many ARTC supporters including the Rotary Club Sunrise who helped contribute the financial support required to make the move to the larger stateof-the-art building. The extra space and expansion into the county will enable ARTC to continue to provide valuable services to individuals and caregivers but also lends support to an already overburdened healthcare system by helping people remain in their home, healthy and independent. It has long been recognized that the trend continues whereby individuals are living longer, living with a variety of co-morbidities of challenges, and that increased responsibility is being placed on caregivers, said Santilli. “Coupled with the reality of much-needed improvements and better integration in our healthcare system, the collaboration of healthcare partners is even more essential.”

The Brantford ARTC is open Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. The Paris program at the Cowan Community Health runs every Thursday from 8:30 am to 4 pm.

The Seniors Active Living Expo will feature many Community Partners as well as demos and classes of some of THE County of Brant Fitness Programs. Lunch will be provided, and transportation can be arranged by contacting parksandrec@brant.ca. Free to attend, no registration required. Community Partners include, County of Brant Recreation Team, County of Brant Fire Department, County of Brant Public Library, Brant Pedalers and Paddlers, Grand River Council on Aging, Kindred Spirits, Adult Recreation Therapy Centre, Paris Seniors Club, Telfer Place & Chartwell

Tranquility Place

Date: Monday, October 2

Time: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

Location: Sojourn Church, 112 Scott Ave, Paris

Cost: FREE

SENIOR LIVING

Celebrating Seniors: October 1st is National Seniors Day

County of Brant, ON – October 1st is National Seniors Day and the County of Brant is happy to share a number of community initiatives to support older adults in Brant.

This summer the County of Brant launched a new Seniors Active Living Guide for Brant residents. The guide is an important resource that highlights the many groups, gatherings and activities happening in the County of Brant for older adults The Guide can be found online by visiting the Seniors Services section of our website at www.brant.ca/Seniors and printed copies can be picked up at any County of Brant office or community centre.

“As the older population continues to grow in our communities, we have seen a need for publications like this,” said Lisa Koekoek, Recreation Coordinator. “We want the County of Brant to be a place that is accessible, safe and has engaging opportunities for those of all ages and this guide highlights that!” Also, to honour National Seniors Day the County of Brant was joined by the Grand River Council on Aging and CARP (Canadian Association of Retired Persons) Brantford Chapter for a flag-raising ceremony at County of Brant Council Chambers Thursday.

The County of Brant is also excited to be presenting a Seniors Active Living Expo on Monday, October 2nd at the Sojourn Church, 112 ScottAvenue in Paris. “We invite the community to join us this Monday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm for our first Seniors Active Living Expo,” said Koekoek. “This will be a wonderful opportunity for older adults in our community to come out and meet with our Recreation team and many community partners, plus there will be demonstrations and classes to take part in. Lunch will also be provided!”

The Seniors Active Living Expo is a drop-in event and free to attend.

“We also encourage everyone in the community to flip through the Fall Community Services Guide,” said Koekoek. “The Community Services Guide highlights

drop-in and registered programs for all ages and abilities, from fitness classes to pickleball and crock pot club, we hope that you can join us!”

The latest Community Services Guide can be viewed online by visiting www.brant.ca/Guide or picked up at any County of Brant office or community centre. The Recreation Team is also excited to share several Free Try-it Classes taking place, starting next week for those 55 year plus – Chair Yoga, Cardio Combo and Walking Soccer.

You can register for these programs online today at wwwbrant ca/COBConnect or by phoning 519.442.1944.

The County of Brant Recreation team also distributes a monthly newsletter for seniors. For more information, and to join the mailing list, email parksandrec@brant.ca.

To honour National Seniors Day, the County of Brant was joined by the Grand River Council on Aging and CARP (Canadian Association of Retired Persons) Brantford Chapter for a flag-raising ceremony at County of Brant Council Chambers on Thursday.

Sample the variety of Brant’s diverse food & beverage industry at inaugural Brant Eats event

By Casandra Turnbull

Take a bite out of the best Brant has to offer during the inaugural Brant Eats Food and Drink event taking place next month

On Friday, October 27th from 5 pm to 9 pm at the Gaukel Community Centre in St. George will host a culinary cabaret for residents to sample some of the best kept culinary and beverage secrets – and some not so secret – in Brant County. The event is a partnership between the Paris and District Chamber of Commerce and the St. George Business Association. County of Brant Economic Development is an official sponsor of the event, offering the space at the Gaukel Centre to host the 30-34 food and beverage vendors on display.

Sue Morton, Executive Director of the Paris and District Chamber of Commerce, was before council this week asking councillors to designate the event as municipally significant so they could apply for a Public Special Occasion Permit from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.

“We know vendors took a big hit during the pandemic…. We know slower tourism months are tough on them The idea is to drive sales and create local interest,” explained Morton, who was joined for the delegation by Sherri Barna, owner of Purple Bean Media and a Director and Marketing Chair for the Chamber of Commerce.

“We have a lot of new residents in the community, and this would be a nice way to bring everyone together and create a sense of community between long time and new residents,” Morton told councillors.

Barna explained that the idea for the event extends from a similar event in Brantford, which was hosted pre-pandemic. Brantford Bites was an instant hit with the community, highlighting amazing local vendors, said Barna. So, with that concept in mind, it was decided there should be a similar event to shine the light on what’s available in the county.

The St. George Business Association will be working the Chamber on the event and the Paris BIA has offered their support in promoting it. If successful, Morton says they hope to make it an annual event, rotating venues throughout the county to ensure it’s not just a strictly Paris centric event. “We value our small businesses and want them to thrive, so this event is part of our focus to remind residents to shop local.”

The event space is equipped to hold between 30-34 vendors who will provide a vast array of gastronomical delights

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Continued from page 9

Local restaurants, delicatessens, caterers and craft beer, wine, cider, tea and coffee coinsures are invited to register to participate. The event organizing committee will select vendors from the applications to ensure there is a good mix of both food and drink offerings

The Brant Eats committee is also looking for event sponsors. There are three levels of sponsorship that include a variety of perks from brand awareness to social media exposure, signage, and free tickets. Anyone interested in purchasing tickets, becoming a vendor or sponsor is encouraged to reach out to the Paris Chamber via email at info@pariscoc.ca

The facility has a capacity of 300 people so make sure you secure those tickets, so you don’t miss out on the chance to take a great big bite of the most flavoursome businesses in Brant! Tickets are $57.52 a person, which covers entrance and all the samples you can responsibly eat and drink.

WOODLAND CULTURE CENTRE HOURS

Paris Horticultural Society members are busy bees!

The Woodland Culture Centre museum and galleries is open to the public today, September 30th, for our regular hours of 9:00am - 4:00pm. We respectfully ask that the hands-on programming, film showing and any guided tours are reserved for Survivors and their families. Survivors and their families are being prioritized for programming these two days. There is public programming being organized by Brantford Native Housing at Mohawk Park on Saturday, September 30th. The museum will be closed Sunday, October 1 and Monday, October 2 to the public.

You could say the Paris Horticultural Society members were busy bees this month! They did some more public planting at the Paris Fairgrounds on Tuesday, September 19th. A total of 123 (mostly) native perennials, plus 1 tree, was planted. These pollinator plants are establishing along the bank. A variety of perennials included Blue False Indigo, Popsicle Red Lupine, Anise Hyssop, Butterfly Milkweed, Smooth Aster, Lance-leaved Tickweed, Pale Purple Coneflower, Dense Blazing Star, Gloriosa Daisy, Hoary Vervain, Short's Aster and Turtlehead. Volunteer members of the Horticultural Society, pictured left to right: Pat Moore, Nancy Burkholder, Dave Collins, Larry Stewart, and Doug Hanna. And on September 23, 11 volunteers showed up to door their part in keeping Paris beautiful by cleaning their stretch of Road program, organized by Nancy Chipman. Pictured is Patti Gladding, Paula Barker Atkinson, Anne Vernon, Tony Atkinson, Pat Moore, Edith Stone, Pat Hasler-Watts, and Serryn Stephenson.

Photos submitted by Paris Horticultural Society

EDITORIAL COMMENTS

Fantastic success of LOCALfest will lead to another brew next year!

To The Editor:

WOW, wow, wow, wow Six straight hours of singing, dancing, musicianship and local celebrations of talent at the Debut of HOME BREW LOCALfest ... held in conjunction with the 2023 Brant County Culture Days!!!

Where do I start? It was such a monumental success ... I'm beyond stoked. Mint, epic, Holy frijoles... just freaking awesome Altogether, we had about 300 people, including the performers in a jam-packed, speed-dating fever pitched marathon of goodwill.

There are not enough words in the English Language to describe my pride and overwhelming thanks to our entertainers. Mind-blowing GREAT.

Special thanks to all of our entertainers: Taya Humpartzoomian, Angus Academy of Highland Dance, Delilah Minshall, Ryleigh Fitzpatrick, Greg Zaluski, Ruby Williams, Shelby Lapinski, Carl Mulligan, SIVLE (the Minnery Family - Bob, Bill and Joan), Kyra Humpartzoomian, the Hungarian Village Dancers, Morgan Whitcroft, the Ukrainian Village Dancers, the STOMPtastic Line Dance Troupe, Iris Mottershead, Hilary Cowell, Steve Duran and the Keuning Family

Quartet.

To Jennifer Moore and Ryan Nelson our happy sound crew who arrived at 10:30 am and then Jen worked like a trojan ALL day. Good times DJ Services WOO HOO!!! And to special helpers Barb and Bob Nelson.

To Nancy Carubba for gracing us with the beautiful atmosphere of the Adelaide Hoodless Homestead YOU, my new friend, have been a dream to work with and a total blessing to our community I cannot say enough kind words

To my MAN Keith for his helping with the marketing, shopping for the water and snacks, transporting everything, helping with set-up and tear down and just being the only other person who helped with this event up until today

To my much-missed buddy but happy to see you beyond compare- Pam Humpartzoomian, for helping clean up and tear down. Gosh, your hug.

To my gals ... Taya and Kyra Humpartzoomian -- SINGING with you takes me to a level of instant Euphoria. Thanks for pitching in ALL day from Noon - 6pm and singing here, there, and everywhere and staying until the well, until

the last note was sung.

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention our MP Larry Brock and our Councillor Mike Sullivan for speaking on behalf of the local governments and rooting us on from the picnic tables and very briefly on the mic ... thanks kindly for your smiles and wonderful words.

I especially want to thank our smiling paparazzi from BScene and our spectarular coverage in the Paris Independent WOW!

A breath of sighs to Nathan Inglis for stepping in to assist with parking … we needed you!!

And finally, to you ... our patrons, fans, friends, new friends, visitors and attendees we couldn't have done this without your support, and we are grateful for your attendance, your generous donations towards the museum and your enthusiastic support of our entertainment

I am Euchred but I am one very happy Canadian.

Larry Brock encouraged me to do this again next year, at the same place ... and we're assuredly going to serve up a SONGtastic 2024 cup of HOME BREW!!!

Joan Minnery

Optimist

Club needs volunteers to continue youth-based fundraising and programming

To the Editor:

We need your help! We need you! For the past 74 years the Paris Optimist Club has been supporting the youth of Paris The Optimist club has sponsored minor hockey, minor baseball, soccer and football as well as Girl Guides and Scouts.

Each year we provide scholarships and awards at Paris District High School, Tollgate Technological School and St John’s College. In addition, we award a graduating Grade 8 student from each of the elementary schools in Paris a Spirit of OptimismAward.

For the past 15 years we have been very proud to sponsor the Junior and Senior Football teams at Paris District High School One of our major fundraisers is the youth dance for students in Grade 5,6,7 and 8, held once a month at the Syl Apps Community Centre

Over the years we have raised funds for several major projects including the Skate Park Anyone who grew up in Paris has been touched or assisted in some way by the efforts of the Paris Optimist Club

We cannot continue to financially support these programs and events without more members If you can spare some time and commitment to this great program, please come and join us.

The only requirements are that you are 18 years or older and can pass a police check. There is one dinner meeting a month as well as a board meeting If you are new to Paris, it is a great way to meet new people and to give back to the community.

For more information contact us through messenger or email optimistmarilyn@gmail.com.

Marilyn McCulloch

- EDITORIALVolunteerism is the backbone of a good community

I once read that volunteerism is a basic expression of human relationship. It is about people’s need to participate in their societies and to feel that they matter to others. Every thriving city, community or society is built on the basics of volunteering. For decades, the fabric of Paris’ small knit community was woven together by volunteers from a variety of organizations – The Optimists, The Lion’s Club, The Kiwanis Club, The Paris Museum, the downtown BIA, the Horticultural Society, the Paris Agricultural Society, the Women’s Institute (and I know I didn’t touch upon everyone) – all with a common desire to make this community the best it can be. Unfortunately, that mentality is dying with the times. Every service club, every sports organization, every community-based group is in dire need of volunteers. People want to have services available within their community but aren’t willing to put in some time and effort to ensure these services remain in place. You can’t expect local, provincial or federal governments to fund high school scholarships, local park upgrades, sports teams, free community activities. These are possible only because people donated their most valuable resource: their time. As the community continues to grow, with more and more individuals of all walks of life, let’s hope we start to see a resurgence of volunteerism or all the things we admire about this community will start to fade.

Casandra Turnbull, Managing Editor

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We want to hear from you! The Paris Independent welcomes Letters to the Editor on a variety of topics of interest. All letters must be signed, we will not publish anonymous letters. The Paris Independent does not publish libelous or obscene content. All letters are subject to editing for space or other considerations. The content of the letter is the opinion of the writer, not necessary that of the Paris Independent. Submit your letter by email to stories@theparisindependent.com by 5 pm on Wednesdays for publication in our weekly (Saturday) publications.

Colton’s Fun Farm Extends Support to Help A Child Smile, Bringing Joy to Families Battling Childhood Cancer

MEDIA RELEASE - BrantfordBrant (Friday, September 28, 2023)

Colton’s Fun Farm, nestled at 109 Jerseyville Road in Brantford continues to captivate families with its array of Halloween-inspired activities, creating cherished memories for all who visit. What sets this family-run farm apart is their unwavering commitment to giving back to the community. The Gallant Family, the visionary minds behind Colton’s Fun Farm, established this haven in memory of their beloved son, who passed away.

In 2019, a devastating arson incident consumed the barn housing the games, activities, and equipment crucial to the farm’s operations. Undeterred, the Gallants rallied together to rebuild, replacing lost assets while introducing new attractions, reinforcing their commitment to spreading joy and resilience.

Central to the Gallants' mission is their steadfast support for Help A Child Smile, a volunteer-driven charity dedicated to assisting families with children undergoing cancer treatment at Hamilton’s McMaster Children’s Hospital. This noble cause was chosen after their son Shane embarked on his own courageous battle with cancer at McMaster in 2016 Witnessing the profound impact of Help A Child Smile's initiatives, the

Gallants resolved to channel Colton’s Fun Farm’s proceeds towards this invaluable organization.

Help A Child Smile's primary objective is to provide young cancer patients and their families with opportunities to escape the confines of the hospital, momentarily setting aside medical procedures for a day of lighthearted fun. Their wide-ranging activities encompass daytrips to attractions like African Lion Safari, Disney on Ice, Treetop Trekking, and various other recreational outings that offer much-needed respite.

Over its 35+ years, Help A Child Smile has evolved beyond organizing enjoyable outings, extending its support to fund monthly teen groups, facilitate parent support groups, offer bereavement counseling, cover hospital parking fees, and more Notably, this charitable endeavor operates without government

funding or corporate backing, relying solely on generous donations and partnerships with fundraising advocates in their served communities This volunteer-led approach ensures that over 90% of contributions directly benefit families in need

By visiting Colton’s Fun Farm and participating in their array of Halloween-themed festivities, patrons not only create lasting memories for their own families but also contribute to a cause that brings solace and joy to children and families enduring the challenges of childhood cancer. For an unforgettable experience and to support Help A Child Smile, pre-order your tickets at https://www.coltonsfunfarm.ca/ Starting October 7th, Winner Winner Chicken Dinner will be onsite to satisfy your culinary cravings

Stay updated with Colton’s Fun Farm on Facebook

The evolution of Fire Fighting in Paris

Until 1850, the villagers organized themselves into bucket-brigades. A bucket-brigade was useful for putting out a small fire, or for preventing the spread of flames from building to building. But it was usually helpless in the face of a big fire. Sometimes the distance between the well and the flames was so great that the members were unable to form a continuous line. Sometimes the well or cistern would quickly be pumped or bailed dry And usually the endmen, when the heat became intense, could not get close enough to throw water on the flames and certainly they could not easily throw it from the ground to a second story. Consequently, the townsmen organized new brigades with better techniques and equipment. To begin with, in 1850 they organized five volunteer firecompanies, modelled upon those that had already appeared in the larger towns of Canada These brigades were at first independent of one another and of the village council. They had their respective clubhouses and distinctive uniforms. And they were equipped by the council with either a hookand-ladder wagon or a handoperated fire-engine. To supply the brigades with water, the council

constructed a number of public water-cisterns and wells. About 1851, for instance, a big cistern was constructed at the corner of Burwell and Dundas Streets. In 1856 a large well was dug in the North Ward. And in 1857 a tank was built beside the Olde Town Hall, to be filled with water from the roof. In 1856, a sixth company was formed After the organizational meeting, George Angus, the captain elect, appeared before the council to ask that his brigade be officially incorporated and be supplied with equipment. The request was gladly granted. Most of the young bloods who could run, climb, or pump, were eager to join one of the volunteer companies The rewards of being a member were considerable. There was the club house where, among

the fire-fighting equipment, the members had fun times with boon companions. There were the precision drills on the main street, during which, dressed in a natty uniform, they could glow under the admiring eyes of young boys, old boys, and young ladies. And there was keen and exciting rivalry with other clubs, and dangers under fire, when they could play the hero. At the sound of the alarm, all the local companies would try to arrive first at the fire and go first into action. Each member would run to his club house, hastily don a colorful shirt and a great leather helmet, seize one of the handgrips on the wagon tongue, and then, together with his mates, speed off towards the fire

19th Century Paris Fire Brigade, D.A. Smith Photograph Collection, 2009.0062.01 Page 121 At the Forks of The Grand, Photo 2, Paris Museum and Historical Society

Until about 1875, these first firecompanies served the town well. Then, in that year, the councillors decided that a steam-powered pumping-engine would be more effective. During 1876 and the spring of 1877, they carried on negotiations with manufacturers such as Ronald & Co. of Chatham and A G Gilbert of Gananoque; and finally, they arranged a competition among rival engines as part of the celebrations of May 24, 1877 On the great day, the three competing machines were lined up on the bank of the Nith, a short distance above the River Street Bridge. The intake-hose of each lay in the river; the nozzleend of the outlet-hose lay a thousand feet away at the Town Hall. Large crowds milled around both the engines and the nozzles When all was ready, each machine in turn, after being coupled to the hose, blew smoke from its funnel and puffed vigorously. Its pump labored, and a stream of water shot from the distant nozzle and flew

up towards the bell tower. The engine of the Century Steam Fire Engine Company of Chatham forced its stream the highest. When its spout soared clear over the roof of the main building, so loud a sigh of wonder and satisfaction issued from the throng that the walls quivered like those of Jericho This engine was judged the winner The council bought it for the sum of $4,000, and paid $1,100 more for 1,000 feet of hose and a reel The existing firebrigades were then re-organized around this new equipment. Thos. Avers was appointed First Fireman at a salary of $100 a year, and Mather Willson, Second Fireman at a salary of $50 a year. One brigade of 23 men, stationed at the Town Hall, was placed in charge of the steamer; another of 30 men, equipped with a new hand-engine, was stationed at the Junction; and a hook-and-ladder brigade was restationed at the Old Village Hall. Furthermore, since the steamer could theoretically pump a mighty

torrent, the council had to provide new reservoirs. Thus, we find it having a well dug on the Congregational Square, placing tanks of 500-barrel capacity each at a number of other strategic points, and supervising the construction of a wharf-like structure on the bank of the Grand at William Street and at the Nith Bridge, upon which the steamer could be backed to pump water from the rivers And later in 188o, the new steamer, although at first it excited much interest and was quite spectacular, was sometimes inefficient. Often its hose burst under the usual pressure of 125 pounds; and often, too, its mechanism refused to function. In 1880, when called upon merely to flood the rink, it failed to force the tiniest spray from the nozzle Property owners were naturally perturbed

To be continued next week…

Paris Fire Brigade Steamer, 1878, D.A. Smith Photograph Collection, 2009.0062.01, Page 72B, Photo 2, Paris Museum and Historical Society

County names new Deputy Fire Chief

COUNTY OF BRANT - The County of Brant is pleased to announce that Brent Cain has been named the new Deputy Fire Chief.

“We are happy to share that Mr Cain has accepted the role of County of Brant Deputy Fire Chief,” said County of Brant Fire Chief Darren Watson. “Deputy Chief Cain brings with him an extensive background in fire services for the County of Brant and with over 28 years of experience, we are incredibly grateful to have someone with his skills and knowledge in the Deputy Chief role ”

Deputy Chief Cain began his fire services career as a Volunteer Firefighter with the County of Brant in 1995. In 2012 he became Deputy District Chief of the Airport Fire Station, and in July 2015 was appointed District Chief for the Airport Fire Station “As a lifelong County of Brant resident, it means a lot to me to continue to serve my hometown and community in the Deputy

Fire Chief role,” said Deputy Chief Cain “We have an incredible team here at the County of Brant Fire Department and I look forward to being able to support them.” The County of Brant Fire Department consists of eight Fire Stations across the County, with approximately 195 volunteer firefighters

To learn more about the County of Brant’s Fire Department or how to join the team as a volunteer firefighter, visit wwwbrant ca/Fire

Walk the Park and read about Truth and Reconciliation

Visit Mt. Pleasant Nature Park on Saturday, September 30, and read The Orange Shirt Story by Phyllis Webstad. Learn about six-year-old Phyllis' first day at residential school when her new orange shirt - a gift from her grandmotherwas taken away from her.

Mt. Pleasant Nature Park is located at 755 Mt. Pleasant Rd (Mt. Pleasant). The Orange Shirt Story will be up all day.

County of Brant celebrates local businesses at Salute to Brant

MEDIA RELEASE - County of Brant, ON – On Thursday, September 21, 2023, the County of Brant came together at the TF Warren Group Cainsville Community Centre to celebrate the annual Salute to Brant Business event.

“It was a wonderful evening of celebrating our business community,” said Zach Gable, Director of Economic Development and Tourism. “We were also excited to be able to showcase the new TF Warren Group Cainsville Community Centre which has been a great addition to this area of the County”

The annual Salute to Brant event brings together County of Brant businesses, as well as County of Brant Council and staff to enjoy an

evening of networking, local food and drink, an awards presentation, and a keynote speaker.

“As always we want to thank the business community for choosing the County of Brant,” said Gable “We also want to thank those who took the time to nominate a business, and of course, we share our congratulations to this year’s award recipients, as well as the nominees ”

This year’s award recipients were:

•Kevin Hodge Farms Ltd.#BrantFarmsForAll Agriculture Award

•ANC Modular - #Brantworks High Growth and Innovation Award

•Steel Wheel Brewery and The Paris Bohemian Gallery#GoodtimesinBrant Award

•Apogee Ceramics Inc.#OurFutureBrant Sustainability Award

“We are incredibly fortunate to have such a vibrant and diverse mix of businesses in Brant,” said Gable. “They truly are a part of what makes the County such a great place to live, work and play.”

This year’s event featured a keynote address from guest speaker Steven Duff, Chief Economist at Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. Steve and his wife Robyn also operate a beef and cash crop operation near Colborne, Ontario. To view the 2023 award recipient videos, as well as learn more about Salute to Brant, visit wwwbrant ca/Salute

More photos on page18

Salute to Brant award recipients (left) Kevin Hodge Farms Ltd., Agriculture Award; (right) ANC Modular, High Growth and Innovation Award. Submitted photos

Brant Salutes the top businesses of 2023

Local Fall Job Fair taking place October 11th

BRANTFORD (Sept. 26, 2023) –Local job hunters are being encouraged to dress to impress and bring their resumes to a large upcoming job fair.

Up to 35 businesses will be recruiting at the Fall Job Fair, taking place Oct. 11, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the Best Western Hotel and Conference Centre at 19 Holiday Dr. in Brantford.

Job seekers are urged to come prepared to meet and impress employers, some of whom will be doing on-the-spot interviews

The Fall Job Fair has been organized by St. Leonard’s Community Services, the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie, CareerLink Employment Centre and the Community Resource Service employment centre.

“We know there are many employers who are looking to fill hiring needs and many job seekers looking to find the right match,” said Malcolm Whyte, director of employment services with St Leonard’s. “These types of job fairs are great at bringing them together.”

Workforce Planning Board

Executive Director Danette Dalton said that there are many local businesses with good, wellpaying positions to fill, even though hiring has somewhat slowed overall.

“The job fair gives job seekers a chance to meet employers face to face, instead of just emailing in a resume or job application and hoping, praying, for a response,” Dalton said. “It is a chance to make a personal connection that

can make all the difference.”

Many different types of businesses will be participating, including those from manufacturing, health care and transportation The list includes:

• John Noble Home

• TreeHouse Foods

• Brantford Police Service

• Sierra Construction

• Six Nations of the Grand River Elected Council

• Stubbe’s

• Scotlynn

• UPS

• Turkstra Lumber

• Sharp Bus Lines

A full list can be found on the St. Leonard’s website: www.stleonards com/events/fall-job-fair2023

Salute to Brant 2023 Award Recipients, (left to right) Steel Wheel Brewery and The Paris Bohemian Gallery, Good Times in Brant Award and Apogee Ceramics Inc., Sustainability Award. Submitted photos

Program for Expressive Arts and Community Engagement

P.E.A.C.E is a Program for Expressive Arts and Community Engagement It is designed to give folks 15 and up a chance to learn about the therapeutic power of the arts and creativity through experiential learning and experimentation. This workshop also intends to build community among the participants through the use of different engaging and collaborative activities. Many modalities of the arts will be utilized during this workshop such as movement, sound, visual arts, and writing. Creation is free and takes place in a public space. All materials will be provided and people of all ranges of arts experiences and skills are welcome.

An onsite Expressive Arts Therapist in Training is present as people create together in the art form of their choice Please note that although this workshop explores the therapeutic power and the arts benefits for wellbeing it is not a formal expressive arts therapy group and is not a replacement for professional medical assistance or consultation.

October 4th – County of Brant Public Library in Paris

October 11th – County of Brant Public Library in Burford

The Public Paint Project

Presented by the Paris Bohemian Gallery, A large wooden panel (4 x 8'), in fall colours, will be painted with colourful nature images, over the course of several days by artist Aliki Mikulich, with contributions by the public. Participants can expect to be inspired by the style of painting to contribute their own design and ideas All ages are welcome to take part

Located at 27 William Street, Paris. October 6 and 7th, 12 to 4 pm.

Poetry in Paris - Spoken Word by Roshan James + Open Mic Night

On October 14, Roshan James will host a spoken word and open mic event, performing material from her new collection, 'Pink Moon' at the Paris Bohemian Gallery in Paris, Ontario The 'Pink Moon' collection is described as "part anthem of decolonization, part oracle of the times." Growing up in the South Asian diaspora, but feeling disconnected from her cultural roots, Roshan makes peace with the tension between her self-identities through poetry For the open mic night, Roshan invites local poets to join in sharing their work. She is excited to connect with other literary artists in Brant County, specifically Indigenous, Black, and racialized writers, those who identify as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, those who experience disabilities, and folks who are experiencing houselessness. The open mic night will be a time to sit together, share stories, and explore life in the community, focusing on voices that have been previously marginalized, othered, or out-right silenced by mainstream media

Cashin’ in the travel voucher to return to Puerto Vallarta

BY KARON SINNING

Sept 8

Well here I go again! Having spent the month of August in the Florida heat (and a slight brush with Hurricane Idalia) I’m off to Mexico! Yes, there have been comments asking if I ever stay home.

My quick trip to Mexico is more about getting my money's worth than the need to travel again. I still had a pre-pandemic voucher with Aeromexico and it was “use it or lose it” time. Fares had increased a great deal since then and my $750 credit didn’t even cover the cost of the return flight. I topped up another $350 and chose Puerto Vallarta; somewhere I haven’t been before

A surprise on this trip is the fact you can no longer get an “out of country” phone plan. We discovered this when we were heading to the states for the month of August. Previously, you could get an overpriced plan for one month at $80, but that has now been changed. Now it’s $13 per day for the US and $15 per day for any international destination. So, for our time in the states, it would have cost us $520 each! A $32 US SIM card fixed that problem. It also doesn’t matter which phone carrier you’re using; they have all changed As I was only in Mexico for a week, I chose to keep the phone on wifi only, leaving airplane mode on and data roaming off. Worked great for me!

I’ve also developed “old people’s hip” otherwise known as bursitis, so I bit the pride bullet and requested wheelchair service. I was pleasantly surprised how seamless the process was. On the flight out of Toronto there were 7 requests for chair service, plus one fellow who only requested it from Mexico City on.

In a chair, you are positioned at the front of the gate, close to the service desk. This can be a learning

Paris resident, and Paris Independent travel columnist Karon Sinning travelled to Puerto Vallarta; somewhere she hasn’t been before. This was the spectacular sunset by the restaurant at her resort.

opportunity if you listen to the staff It seems the pilots checked in, or almost did Later, the female staff asked the fellow at the desk to log the captain in; and he said, the pilots were already logged in. A little back and forth between them and it turned out the captain had left briefly after checking in the first time. She said to note it in their log. Interesting! A little disconcerting for anyone with an imagination.

Mexico City airport is huge and there are no announcements in English. I very nearly missed my flight going home through here last time I came to Mexico So having someone to take you where you need to go was a blessing It was a long day of travel using Aeromexico as all flights connect through Mexico City. My day started at 4:30 am until I arrived at the hotel at 7pm However, there is a 2hr time difference between Mexico and home; so, it was 9pm for me. I had a friend join me and Faye was flying WestJet direct from Toronto to Puerto Vallarta, on Saturday. While she would be up early, it would be a much shorter day for her. Cont’d on Pg 21

The tour was a fun day out The staff on the boat kept us well fed and very entertained The crew did a Latin dance show in the morning and an impersonation show in the afternoon (the Rolling Stones, Van Halen and Christina Agulera) The tour director also involved the Mexican guests in a couple of their traditional dances. I’d liken them to “the chicken dance,” very fun for the participants and the audience.

The scenery was gorgeous and plunging in the ocean cove was almost cooling. The water was a reported 80F, but with the air and humidity approaching 100F, it was the best show in town The option of trekking through the jungle to the waterfall lost its shine as it was explained by the director This is a very mountainous area and the up and down, up and down through the jungle in the heat, lost out to a tranquil couple of hours under the umbrella on the beach. Our group divided here some hiking and some, like us, not.

Usually when I travel, I have a private residence to stay in: Malta, England and most recently the states, so being in an all-inclusive hotel is definitely a different experience The rooms are a generous size, if somewhat plain The common areas and rooms of the hotel were all clean, the staff was friendly and very hardworking.

I will say the rooms can be quite noisy though. The room has an adjoining door and at night, this single

door is no noise barrier to the room beside you In all, the hotel was a disappointment, the food was not good, and the wine was un-drinkable It was still a vacation,

so we made the best of it

By mid-afternoon the temperature was sizzling, but early morning was beautiful for a walk around the grounds. Coffee starts at 7, so I’m there for the first pot!

Continued on page 22

Karon (on the right) and her friend Faye on a boat cruise brought them across some breath-taking views.

Photos by Karon Sinning

TRAVEL COLUMN

All the restaurants are open air, but with a high roof So, it’s still possible for a feathered friend to pop by to see if you are sharing anything And lesson learned do not leave your croissant and eggs alone while you get juice! These birds do not wait for you to share, they help themselves! By 7:40 I’m no longer the only guest, but it is a slow trickle of people, barely more than a handful. By 8:30 it is a happening place!

Our choice for the second tour was a city tour of Puerto Vallarta. Our guide spoke both Spanish and English and was well informed. We visited local artisan shops in leather, jewellery and a family-owned tequila factory for a tasting. This was my first-time tasting tequila and I found it very strong. The chocolate and mango ones were sippable but not really my cup of tea-quila! (pictured to the left)

The leather store featured handmade items and the back of the store contained the workshop. We watched as sandals were being made. And well …jewellery stores really need no explanation. Silver is abundantly available throughout Puerto Vallarta and some pieces are stunning.

We stopped at the main church for a quick look It was beautifully decorated for Mexico's upcoming Independence Day on September 15 Spain withdrew from Mexico in 1821 and Mexican Independence Day has been celebrated every year since

Lunch was a little spot in the suburbs (a bit rugged) with a creek running beside it. The menu was simple with regional dishes and in lieu of a paper menu, platters were displayed inside the front counter. Each platter served 2-4 people. We chose the fajita platter and really enjoyed them (pictured to the left).

Thursday was my last full day in Mexico. We found an Irish (yet to be determined) pub named McCarthy's Pub and ventured out for the short walk off the resort for dinner, which was a delight! Hamburger and fries! Not really Irish, but a welcome change to a week of Mexican meals.

Aries: March 21 - April 19 (Fire) –Just when you are ready to break you somehow find the strength to complete all that needs to be done. You are ready for a new love in your life. You will be invited out and it is a perfect time to meet someone If you are in a solid relationship, then you need to find a way to bring back the spark

Taurus: April 20 - May 20 (Earth) –You keep asking the Universe for more information so you can make some pretty big choices in your career and love and health But you are not listening to the great advice you are given, and you are not asking the right questions. Sit down and focus on what you need to know and then go ask the right people for the answers

Gemini: May 21 - June 20 (Air) – You are feeling ignored and unappreciated this week. You will want to be heard and seen This will lead to you having moments where you get into arguments with coworkers and loved ones You are not invisible; you are just not expressing yourself in a positive way

Cancer: June 21 – July 22 22 (Water) –

You have a passion inside of you that needs an outlet Show people what you are made of Tell your loved ones what you need from them Tell your work why you are not happy and the things that need to be changed You will have great confidence this week so now is the time to take a chance and change your life.

Leo: July 23 - August 22 (Fire) –You will find yourself holding back this week. You will want to shine, but instead you stay quiet and just observe Work is a mess, and you love life needs a lot more attention Do not stress about your inability to act, you need this time to reflect and do some soul searching

Virgo: August 23 - September 22 (Earth) – You worrying all the time does not change anything except by taking your peace away. Things will unfold this week without your help so just let it be. People will be coming at you with all sorts of problems, pick and choose the ones that are really your problems and leave the rest

Libra: September 23 - October 22 (Air) - You will be asked a lot of questions this week that you just do not have the answers to My advice would be do not give your opinion unless you're sure, it will come back and kick you in the butt later You need to be careful with your tone when you're talking to coworkers, you will hurt people's feelings

Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 (Water) – You must make time for some fun this week You are going to get busy with lots of boring stuff quickly Have a quick talk with your family and friends about what you can do to have some much-needed social interaction. Do not be afraid to ask for some help at work, you need it

Sagittarius: November 22 - December 21 (Fire) – You can do much more if you really want to Unfortunately, your energy this week is too low to care You will, however, have enough in you to plan an outing with a good friend or date for the weekend You need this time out and away from all the work you are carrying from financial and work issues.

Capricorn: December 22 - January 19 (Earth) – You are not willing to let things fall apart in any area of your life. You will face all the problems you are having at work and at home head on. You have great strategies to fix all the little things that are broken around you You are preparing yourself to be balanced and strong

Aquarius: January 20 – February 18 (Air) – You feel like people are taking advantage of your nice side; this will end up bringing out your bad side. You will want to avoid anyone that is a trigger for your anger You will spend a lot of time to yourself this week and recharge yourself

Pisces: February 19 - March 20 (Water) – You start to have a clear idea of what you want for your life a year from now Be careful you do not miss out on living in the right now by daydreaming so far in the future You must be willing to let go of some past regrets in order to move forward faster.

with Tina Graziano Energy Reader

Tina

Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford

For Saturday, September 30, 2023

Showtimes for The Oxford Drive-In Sept 29th, - Oct 5th , 2023

Pay at ticket booth Cash, Debit or Credit

1 adult ($15.00)

2 adults ($25.00)

3 adults ($35.00)

4 adults ($45.00)

5 adults ($55.00)

1 Adult 2 kids ($16.00)

1 Adult 3-4 kids ($25.00)

2 Adults 1-2 kids ($30.00)

2 Adults 3-4 kids ($35.00) gates open at 7pm - movie starts at dusk. Kids are 12 and under –6 and under are FREE