The Paris Independent for Saturday, December 11, 2021

EXAMINING ARTS & CULTURE IN PARIS! Turn to Pages 8 - 10 HELPING INDIGENOUS YOUTH PLAY HOCKEY. Pages 14-15

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The Paris Independent Saturday, December 11, 2021

THIS WEEK

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CREATIVE GREENTHUMBS!

In Community

HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS Pages 4 - 5 In Sports

MAKING STRIDES Ringette News Page 13 Focus on Kindness

ADOPT-AGRANDPARENT Page 18-19

The 5th Paris Brownies visited Walter’s Greenhouse & Garden Centre on December 8th to create their own Christmas planters/decorations. Photo by 5th Paris Brownies

County Offices Closed

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR Email theparisindependent@gmail.com with your community calendar submission.

Help us share community news and events!

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COMING EVENTS FOR PARIS & AREA DECEMBER 2021 DECEMBER 2021 The Brantford Lights at Glenhurst Art Gallery.

December 3 to January 6, 2022, 6 pm to 9 pm nightly. 20 Ava Rd, Brantford. December 5 is Lansdowne Night at the Lights and will feature Santa and costumed seasonal greeters St. George Santa Claus Parade, Saturday, December 11 at 6 pm. downtown St. George.

Welcoming the Light! Family Winter Solstice Celebration Five Oaks Centre, Tuesday, December 21, 4:00pm–6:30pm. Join us on for this fun, inter-cultural Solstice celebration to welcome the light as the days start to get longer and the nights shorter.

Brantford Symphony Orchestra Christmas Bells are here again!

December 11 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Free Holiday Skates at Burford Arena on December 12 & 19 from 1-2 pm, sponsored by The - After a pandemic-forced interruption to Brantford’s big symphony extravaganza, it’s Burford Optimist Club and Nathan Ackland time to come back! Dust off your bells Insurance (remember those?) and bring them along to Owl Prowl, Fireside Teachings and Stories ring in the Christmas season with a sleigh full At Five Oaks Friday, December 17th from 5:30pm- of your favourite Christmas-time music.

8:30 pm. Meet at the river-side fire circle by Make up for the time when there were no 5:30pm. By the light and warmth of the fire, we concerts or special events. Join in the will hear traditional indigenous teachings and excitement of live music at the Sanderson stories from Elder Pat and Elder Linda. Afterwards, Centre with your Brantford Symphony local nature educator Laurel will take us into the Orchestra! Ticket prices: $40 in-person, $15 woods to call, listen and look for owls! Then back virtual attendance. to the fire to warm up and sip hot chocolate. https://fiveoaks.venue360.me/public/events/homepage...

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COMMUNITY NEWS HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS CAMPAIGN GIVES WOMEN, CHILDREN MAGICAL CHRISTMAS

By Casandra Turnbull The Nova Vita Hope for the Holidays Campaign is well underway but is still in need of financial and gift card donations to help provide a magical Christmas for women and children staying at the shelter this holiday season.

Anne Ruddell, community development manager at Nova Vita, describes the campaign as an all-encompassing holiday program that connects the generosity of the caring community with the needs of the clients seeking a safe, residential shelter.

“Our hope for the holidays program is to ensure that all of the children who are currently staying in our emergency shelter experience the magic of the season, whatever their cultural and religious beliefs may be,” explained Ruddell. She is a member of the small but mighty Community Development team that works with amazing volunteers and shelter staff to organize the successful holiday campaign.

“The holidays are an especially exciting time in the shelter, with lots of fun activities organized by our child and youth workers, which also serves to give mom some much needed respite – and no December would be complete without a visit from Santa!”

Top: Denise at Inner Girlfriend donated proceeds from the sales of her T-Shirt Collection to help support women escaping violence and homelessness. Bottom: The Brantford Police Service at one of the stuff a cruiser events.

Photos provided by Nova Vita

Gift card donations, ranging in value such as $25, $50 or $100, allows caregivers the chance to purchase exactly what is on their children’s wish lists, including the most essential needs. It provides a sense of empowerment and relief during a very traumatic time in their lives.

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The Paris Independent Continued from Page 4 The gift cards are also available all year round and are given to clients to support urgent needs and demands that come up.

“Imagine being a teenage boy that comes to stay at the emergency shelter with mom and he needs a new pair of sneakers because he is growing so fast.

Being able to offer the young man a gift card empowers him with choice and offers mom some peace of mind,” said Ruddell.

Another way to become involved is by financial donation. Your monetary donation offers the staff at Nova Vita the flexibility to respond to the constantly changing needs of each mother and child they support in the emergency shelter, not just during the holidays, but all year round. “With limited storage and space and expiration dates (on certain products), monetary donations help with expenses that change with each woman or child we welcome into our safe shelter.”

Hope for the Holidays campaign also offers community members a chance to sponsor a family.

While this year’s sponsorship is completely full, with 15 community partners rising to the occasion already, Ruddell encourages you to consider this opportunity next year. Nova Vita staff match community donor budgets to families in need and provides them with a complete ‘wish list’ for the holidays, which generally includes grocery store gift cards and specialized gifts for the children.

5 And speaking of full, Nova Vita is proud to announce that storage is near capacity for its physical donations: toys, non-perishable food items, toiletry items, etc.

This full holiday storage room will ensure families get a stressfree Christmas, but also will serve to meet the needs of the residents in the months to come.

“We were fortunate to have a few larger community partners host third party fundraisers to target physical items from customize wish lists,” said Ruddell. Now, monetary and gift card donations are most needed.

However, in the future, before making a physical donation to the shelter, Ruddell encourages you to call ahead and see what is on the wish list to ensure they are accepting only what is truly required to meet the needs of the residents.

“You can also consider shifting your generosity to the summer months. We are planning to host a ‘Holiday in July’ campaign in 2022 to create more opportunities to give while helping to fill the gaps of our shelves between the generous holiday seasons.”

Support during the holiday season helps create a magical day for families who are escaping from very traumatic experiences at home. However, the need for support is yearround. Nova Vita frontline workers have witnessed firsthand how the global pandemic has intensified violence in the home, particularly against women who have had to endure escalating levels of physical and sexual

December 11, 2021 violence, said Ruddell.

Nova Vita offers support to individuals and families who have experienced domestic violence, intimate partner violence or gender-based violence through crisis intervention, emergency shelter, transitional support, children’s programs, and counselling. In 2020, Nova Vita answered 3,227 crisis and support calls through its 24/7 emergency phone line 519-752-HELP (5357); 87 women and 71 children found safe shelter; 110 women who arrived at the agency to seek help were provided with safety planning, resources, and referrals; 258 women were assisted by Transitional Support Workers to develop safety plans, find safe and affordable houses, and transition out of an abusive relationship.

“We want the community to know that Nova Vita continues to be a safe place to go for women and children escaping violence and homelessness. If you need help and don’t want to stay at Nova Vita, that’s ok too. Our outreach services are available in the community to provide wraparound supports for you, and all members of your family,” said Natasha Dobler, Executive Director at Nova Vita.

If you or someone you know needs help, don’t wait. Contact the support line at 519-752HELP or online at https://novavita.org/chat/

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COUNTY NEWS LOCAL RESIDENTS MAKE $250K DONATION TO FULFILL HEALTH HUB FUNDRAISING GOAL COUNTY OF BRANT MEDIA RELEASE: The Cowan Community Health Hub has reached its 2million-dollar fundraising goal as final donations are received this week.

The Health Hub located at 25 Curtis Ave. N., Paris, opened on Monday, November 29, 2021. It is designed to increase access to quality health care and social services in the community.

“It is with great pleasure that I announce the Health Hub campaign has successfully reached its $2 million dollar fundraising goal,” said Mayor David Bailey. “We are beyond grateful to the community for their incredible support to make the Health Hub a reality.”

The 41,365 square-foot hub is comprised of sustainable design features such as a vegetated “green” roof, highly insulated building envelope, solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations, and energy-efficient fixtures and equipment.

A major donation was received in early December helping to complete the campaign.

“I would like to recognize a major donation from Mr. Salah Bachir and Mr. Jacob Yerex in the amount of $250,000,” said Bailey. “This incredible donation will be honoured by naming the Health Hub community room ‘The Bachir/Yerex Community Room’.”

“We are honoured to be part of this great initiative and congratulate everyone on their hard work. We thought this would be a perfect holiday gift to our families and community,” noted Mr. Bachir.

The Health Hub cost $13 million to build. A $2 million fundraising campaign was launched in early 2021 and was generously supported by the community.

“On behalf of the County of Brant, I would like to thank the donors, the community, the fundraising committee and everyone involved who made this happen,” said Bailey. “You are outstanding.”

To learn about the services at the Health Hub, please visit www.brant.ca/HealthHub.

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OFFICIAL PLAN ADDRESSES FUTURE DEVELOPMENT IN COUNTY

By Casandra Turnbull The County of Brant released the draft of its Official Plan on Thursday, December 9thduring a special meeting of council.

The county’s strategic priority is sustainable and managed growth that protects and enhances our identity, while adhering to provincial conformity

by July 1, 2022. Feedback from EngageBrant suggests the county’s current policies don’t reflect the desires of the community. These policies were developed during the 2012 official plan.

Feedback from residents suggests our communities need to create a growth management strategy; improve housing affordability; improve walkability; maintain small-town character; protect farmland and natural areas; solve parking and traffic issues; improve rural infrastructure and add local jobs.

Analytics show we have an excess of residential lands and a shortfall of employment lands designated to meet our expected growth.

Approximately 75% of residents who provided feedback through Engage Brant said the county needs to do more to protect farmland from development. The county is taking a threepronged approach to address the issue: implement a agricultural systems approach that protects a continuous land base for agriculture and support

elements of the agri-food network, designate prime agriculture holding for lands to retain a residential zoning with an overlay applied to prohibit development until specific criteria are met and do an agricultural impact assessment which requires an analysis of potential impacts that development may have on our agricultural system and provide solutions.

Another major concern is affordable housing. The county plans to implement inclusionary zoning that will require new residential development to include affordable housing units. The county will also work with not-for-profits, developers, and other interested stakeholders to provide additional housing options. According to local statistics, the average price of a single detached home in Brant in 2019 was $649,000 – and that number has increased with a hot real estate market in 2020.

Over 80% of the dwelling units in the county are single detached homes and only 13% are rentals.

Over 1,400 households are on the waitlist for geared-to-income housing.

To view more information from Thursday’s meeting: Title Slide (escribemeetings.com) or visit The New Official Plan | EngageBrant to submit your input.

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A R T S & C U LT U R E PARIS HAS BLOOMED INTO AN ARTISTIC COMMUNITY “Thirty-two years ago, tourism was in the beginning stages in the community. The artists played into that very easily, it’s a natural fit. We created ideas and festivals.” ~ Holly O.

By Carolina Saenz Beautiful Paris has become well-known for it’s vibrant downtown and the Grand River that surrounds it. But throughout the years, arts and culture in the city have bloomed. Attracting tourists and locals alike to appreciate local talent, Paris continues to grow, fuelled by creativity.

Located right in downtown on William Street, The Paris Bohemian Gallery has become a hub that proudly showcases a wide range of local artists. Owner Katherine Pickering, originally from Kitchener but a proud Parisian for over twenty years, brings a unique perspective to the arts scene with a background in the culinary arts.

Pickering’s philosophy in finding art and beauty in all her surroundings is at full display at the gallery. From paintings to candles, electric guitars, records, pottery, and even confectionary products by The Jelly Girls and curated culinary experiences created by Spicy Jan, The Paris Bohemian Gallery is a true showcase for local talent.

“Art to me is everybody and everything. From chocolate to music, clothing, decor, architecture.

It’s everything around us. Anything that stimulates the senses,” Pickering explains. And centred in the belief that art is for everyone, her gallery serves as a welcoming place for not only artists but for all members of the community and tourists visiting the city. People of all ages and backgrounds including musicians, drag queens, bikers, and international politicians have all made their way into the gallery, helping promote

local talent and supporting the local economy.

Having been in Paris for over twenty years, Pickering has seen a demographic shift in the town. “I got to see this beautiful growth and transition that’s happening and really embracing both old and new Paris people,” she says. And having the gallery as a venue to promote not only Paris but the talent within it, has been a wonderful experience.

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Katherine Pickering, owner of Bohemian Gallery believes art is anything that stimulates your senses.

The Paris Independent “My job is to seek out great art and share it with people. And to empower our artists. That is our core value. We needed a place where artists felt valued and empowered,” Pickering assures. The gallery has had the pleasure to showcase established artists as well as newer artists as young as fifteen-years-old. And based on the belief that “knowing who and where things come from gives it gravity,” The Paris Bohemian Gallery is an inviting place that delights the senses.

“Now heading into our third year, I can’t see any other direction but more and more arts and culture and encompassing everything like we always have.

I’ve done tastings, different literary events, live music. And having such a variety in my background, we try to utilize all of that,” Pickering continues to explain. “Our uniqueness is that we have art for everyone. And it is very accessible,” she concludes.

With an emphasis on the importance of community involvement and collaboration, Pickering hopes for a continued development of the arts and culture in Paris.

Just a couple of blocks away, you will find a pillar of the Parisian arts community. Holly O’s homebased studio, located on Charlotte Street, has been a part of the local arts scene for over thirty-two years. Throughout these years, Holly O has had the pleasure of witnessing the role that the arts have played in attracting tourism and growth to the area.

Walking into her studio gallery is a surreal experience of emotions. With vibrant colours and lots of texture, nature surrounds you and heightens the senses.

“I would say my style is loosely based on reality and that the inspiration for my artwork is nature in some form or other. And I am drawn to living things and nature and my style is impressionistic. It is easy to see what images I’m representing but they’re free-spirited and not necessarily overly realistic,” Holly O humbly explains. Her work is playful and colourful and creates happiness within your soul. As a long-standing member of the community, Holly O’s work is a true reflection of what Paris has to offer.

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“Thirty-two years ago, tourism was in the beginning stages in the community. The artists played into that very easily, it’s a natural fit. We created ideas and festivals,” she explains. As a founding member of the Kindred Spirits Artisans of Paris, Holly O has been a key participant in events such as Christmas in Paris, Springtime in Paris, and the Cobblestone Festival.

Describing herself as a proud Parisian, Holly O is not surprised at the growth Paris has experienced in recent years. Surrounded by nature, beautiful architecture, and a beautiful town in itself, Paris has a lot to offer, and it is no surprise people from all walks of life, and especially artists, are attracted to visit and live here.

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Artist Holly Ounapuu has been part of the arts scene for over thirty-two years. She is a founding member of the Kindred Spirits Artisans of Paris Photo by Carolina Saenz

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“It happened gradually until maybe six or seven years ago where it became obvious people were coming from places like Toronto to Paris for festivals and events.”

“It happened gradually until maybe six or seven years ago where it became obvious people were coming from places like Toronto to Paris for festivals and events,” she says. “Paris is a very self-sufficient community, and it really has all that we need here,” Holly O explains, while also insisting that the great quality of life and feel Paris has to offer can only continue through the support of local businesses. And despite the negative effects Covid has had on the community, members of the arts community have been able to adapt and thrive. Events such as the Brant Studio Tour, which operated for over 20 years, had to disband due to the pandemic. However, many of these artists are now operating as single studios. This is something Holly O has always done, because being open by appointment allows her to operate and cater to a variety of visitors and locals.

“During the pandemic we all witnessed a huge increase in the amount of tourist traffic from other locations. And they’re here visiting the downtown, enjoying the restaurants, galleries, and shops. And this all helps the artistic community, those of us who are full-time artists,” she says. “I have experienced a positive two years for my

business even with the pandemic because there’s interest in people refurbishing their homes and making their homes more comfortable. I’ve been happily surprised,” she concludes.

To find out more about Holly O and her work, visit www.hollyo.ca As a thriving place for arts and culture, the County of Brant has appointed Kayla Cicman as Arts, Culture, and Heritage Officer- a new role created with the hopes of supporting local artists in the area. With a background of experience in the arts and culture scene in Hamilton, Cicman is excited to become a part of the Paris community. But with a new role, come great responsibilities. An “Arts, Culture, and Heritage Strategy” has been created to provide a foundation in supporting artists in the area.

“I want to engage with the community and ask what they need,” Cicman explains. Still in the listening stage of her work, Cicman hopes to contribute to building and promoting a local artistic community.

For example, there are plans to create a more cohesive list of local artists and artisans, directions to their studios, so that both locals and tourists alike can better navigate what they have to offer. Events such

as the International Film Festival and the DT music series demonstrate that the growing arts scene is very much inclusive of film and music, also a part of the County’s initiative to support local talent.

“It’s a fun place to be,” Cicman assures. Interested in the grassroots movements and people creating art everywhere and in a variety of ways, Cicman believes in the resourcefulness of small communities. “Art is not just found in art galleries,” she asserts. And during uncertain times, art can be turned into wellness, too. “Art allows us to appreciate and give hope. And express what it is to be human,” Cicman explains. As for the future, in what she refers to as a “community-based evolution,” Cicman hopes to bring about new projects that promote local artists and their work, including more displays of public art for everyone to enjoy. So, if you’re in the Paris area, there’s lots to look forward to! If you are a local artist, interested in funding and grants, or simply want to reach out, contact Cicman by email at kayla.cicman@brant.ca . If you’d like a list of all artists in Paris please visit the county website: Creative Community Contacts - Brant County

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‘TIS THE SEASON! WE ASKED FOR YOUR HOLIDAY PHOTOS – TO SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER! Want to participate? Email

your photos to stories@theparisindependent. com by December 15th.

Above photo submitted by Sue Burleigh, photo to the right

by Grace & Bob Williams. Below, Kate & Gene Wight’s outdoor festive seating arrangement.

Above, Michele Sponagle submitted a picture of her vintage decorations and not-soimpressed feline friends Jack & Betty. Far Left Tina Gadoury decorated her custom-built fireplace while Finn watches for Santa Claus. Immediate left, the Christmas display at the Grand Bayou.

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FESTIVE EVENTS

Approximately 1,500 carloads of people visited the Paris Agricultural Society’s Drive Thru parade last Saturday. Pictured above is Fair Ambassador Bella Todd and to the right are members of the Paris Firefighter’s Club collecting donations for the Paris Christmas Hampers. Photos by: Paris Agricultural Society Several service clubs, organizations and local businesses set up displays for the second annual event. Santa Claus was also back by popular demand. Photos by: Casandra Turnbull

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S P O R T S

Far left Ella Wood takes control of the ring from two Hamilton players. Above, Dakota Duncan and Layla Hawkins attempt to stop a Hamilton player from getting a shot on net. In net for Paris is Mathew Dow (who made the save in this photo).

Photos by: Casandra Turnbull

U14B RINGETTE TEAM DEVELOPING NEW SKILLS – SHOWING IMPROVEMENT WEEK AFTER WEEK

By Casandra Turnbull The team faced off against Hamilton last Saturday The U14B Ringette Team is still in search of its first on home ice. McLaren gave the most improved win, yet the team is showing improvement week award this game to Ella Wood, who is really after week. adapting well to the sport after changing over from The team was just formed in late October and with hockey.

50 percent of its players new to the sport, head The team recently travelled to a one-day tournament coaches Dale McLaren and Ryan Mackinlay have in Pickering last weekend. While they went 0-3, but their work cut out for them teaching the newcomers when the team scored, you would have thought the the basics of the sport. Luckily, they are assist by six team won the championship – the excitement was players that have been with the Paris Ringette palpable. McLaren said the coaching staff was very Association for many years. proud of the team’s efforts. As Kate Gingerich says “The players are hard workers and willing to learn. before and during each game: We are the Thunder, We may not be winning any games yet, but I can see the mighty, mighty Thunder, Go Thunder! the way they are playing their time will come,” said McLaren.

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S P O R T S

“The Save” captured by team photographer extraordinaire Brielle Murray

U13 reps post 1-2 record at Fort Erie Tournament The Paris U13 Rep team battled hard this the game but just couldn’t buy a goal even with weekend at the Fort Erie Andy Passero Memorial multiple breakaways. “Jared Bring it on B” was Tournament. flying and “Camden Cool Cat C” also made an end-to-end rush going through the entire Pelham The team has been playing without the heart and team only to be robbed by the Pelham goalie. The soul of “Captain Crunch Evan G” who broke his Pelham team was so strong that they went on to leg during a game in Langton a month ago. The make it to the tournament finals. entire team sure misses this kid! His dedication to the team is outstanding as he has shown up to all Next up in the tournament was league rival, Twin practices and games while on crutches to cheer on Centre. This game was a battle! Twin Centre his team. would go up early by 2 in this contest with Paris fighting back to make the score 2-1 on an Things got started on Friday morning against a awesome goal by team sniper “Rowan Bar Down very strong Pelham team. The first period went M”. With the goalie pulled and Paris swarming the back and forth with the Paris boys skating hard.

Twin Centre net, the boys still couldn't find a way “Eric the Barbarian B” would get Paris on the to tie things up ending the game on the wrong end score board early in this one. Pelham would tie of a 2-1 score. “Griff Never Back Down N” had things up with a minute to go in the first period. an amazing game in this one, protecting the goalie The second period would start off with a barrage and making end to end rushes when the time was of goals from the Pelham team as they swarmed right. the Paris net, moving up the score to 3-1. Pelham would add another one early in the third to make it Continued on Page 15 4-1. Paris then would out-play Pelham the rest of

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Defenceman “Joe End to End S” also made several awesome rushes down the ice, looking like a young Bobby Orr out there.

Continued from Page 14 Next up on the tournament schedule was Port Colborne. The Paris boys would not be going home without a W and they made sure of this skating away with this game 4-1. “Ty More Moves Than a Rattle Snake R” was amazing in this one netting two goals and holding on to the puck all by himself on a full 2 minute 5 on 3 penalty kill. “Netminder Noah The Wall C” made the save of the century part way through this contest with a desperation stick-out stop to keep Port Colborne from coming back in the game. The wide ice at this arena made things easy for high flying “Jameson Jay Bird A.” He was beating defence wide all night. He took a nasty hit from behind, but team enforcer “Tallen Punch Em Out P” came in and cleared house sticking up for his teammate. Defenceman “Joe End to End S” also made several awesome rushes down the ice, looking like a young Bobby Orr out there. The game was tight until goals from “Cam Mad Dog Stewart” jumped on a rebound on a good net drive, followed by an Ovechkin like goal from “Dawson Amazing Attitude A” from his back hand.

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After the hockey was over, the real fun began in the hotel with the kids playing the game Minute to Win It in each other’s rooms. Special team helper Michelle B kept things running so smoothly that all the coach had to do was sit back and watch the fun unfold. They had a blast!

The boys would also take in a Niagara Ice Dogs game Saturday night! What a fun time that was as well! On Sunday morning the coaching staff woke up to thank you cards under their doors from all the players and Coach Pelton still has a tear in his eye.

Special thanks to team parent “Joanne Jazzy N” for special gift bags she had waiting for the players at the hotel as they checked in.

Stay tuned for more excitement throughout the year.

This article was written by ‘Dickie Dunn’

Chris Whelan Casandra Turnbull Chris Whelan Michelle Malvaso Carolina Saenz Bailey Zimmer Michelle Malvaso

STATEMENT We are a non profit organization made up of like minded volunteers from our community with the main purpose of providing our community of Paris and area with a trustworthy and reliable source of community 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:

Published Weekly on Saturday © 2021 All Rights Reserved

PO BOX 99900 LA 012 395 STN MAIN PARIS, ON, CANADA N3L 0C3 Email: theparisindependent@gmail.com

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PROVIDING CHILDREN IN CANADA’S NORTH ACCESS TO HOCKEY EQUIPMENT

By Casandra Turnbull If you have some equipment stored away in your basement, and you’re not quite sure what to do with it, the Paris Minor Hockey Association will take it off your hands.

On December 11th, in partnership with Rotary International, the Under 11 Paris Wolfpack team will be outside the Twin Pad Arena collecting used gear, skates, sticks and bags to benefit Indigenous children in Northern communities.

The annual collection started seven years ago with the Rotary Club of Etobicoke and the Mimico Hockey Club. Chris Szarks was the driving force behind the Mimco hockey club so when he moved to Paris, he felt the initiative was a natural fit with this community. Szarks recalls how he became involved.

“While I was coaching in Mimico, I made a trip to the Yukon for work with Lee (another Mimico coach). While there we saw a hockey poster advertising an indigenous tournament. I said to Lee ‘We take our kids to the USA for hockey, but we never take them North to see their own country.

This is my first time here and I’m in my 40s.’”

Szarks and Lee started asking questions and soon learned of the challenges kids face in the North with getting property equipment.

Chris Szarks shares the Youtube video of the Mimico Hockey Club helping the Etobicoke Rotary Club inspect and package equipment to be shipped to Sandy Lake Ontario

When they returned to the GTA, they heard about Gerald Lue and the Rotary Club of Etobicoke’s efforts to collect gear for Sandy Lake, Ontario players. “We jumped on board to help. We also reached out to rival hockey organizations and the response was amazing – kids helping kids was a great feeling,” said Szarks.

The donated equipment is air transferred to remote communities in the Arctic to give children the opportunity to take part in a pastime that many people take for granted.

These communities are so isolated that the only way to get food or supplies for your home is by airplane. Many families simply cannot afford airfare for luxury items like

hockey equipment. Providing the necessities to survive is sometimes a difficult feat.

Both Szarks and Lue made the trip to Sandy Lake that year to deliver the equipment. It was an experience neither will forget anytime soon. “When we were there at Sandy Lake, a case of water was $25. So, to get on a plane that may cost, say $2,000, just to get hockey equipment – it’s not a possibility,” said Lue. “The impact of this equipment drive has been fairly touching in many ways. Chiefs in various communities have acknowledged and recognized that having this equipment has reduced the suicide rate by 97%,” Lue continued.

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The Paris Independent Continued from Page 16 Giving children access to sports and leisure helps build key development skills, but also keeps them out of trouble in an otherwise desolate environment.

It gives them an opportunity to escape their daily nuisances and have a positive outlet to channel their emotions. It gives them an opportunity to enjoy a sport played so readily by millions of Canadian children.

All equipment collected by clubs across the province will end up in warehouse space generously

by Illumineer Ltd in Etobicoke.

That is when all the sorting, inspecting, and packaging will take place. It’s very important

17 that all the equipment is sanitized and inspected to ensure that only the highest quality articles are shipped out. From there the donations are delivered by transport to Montreal and then flown into the remote communities during the first week of January.

Paris minor hockey became involved in this initiative a couple years ago, but it was halted in 2020 due to Covid.

Szarks said he is excited to see it return. Coaches have spent some time discussing and educating their players on reason for the collection. Many have viewed videos on YouTube showing previous donations arriving

December 11, 2021 North and interviews with Northern children, explaining why the equipment donation is so important to them.

Anyone interested in making a drop off donation is invited to do so at the arena on December 11th from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. If you do not have equipment to donate but would like to contribute to the cause, you can do so online through Canada Helps ROTARY CLUB OF ETOBICOKE | Charity Profile | Donate Online | Canadahelps. Under the list of activities to support, select Hockey Drive.

INDOOR SOCCER IN FULL SWING! The U11 Paris Soccer Club Green and Purple teams faced off at the Syl Apps Turf last Saturday for a match. Pictured above is Sarah Carter making a save for the Green Team while Jasper Pottruff and Jacob Pereira watch on. Names of players below could not be identified before press deadline. The final score of the game was 8-4 in favour of the purple team. For more information on The Paris Soccer Club please visit Paris Soccer Club :: Home Photos by Michelle Malvaso

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FOCUS ON KINDNESS ADOPT-A-GRANDPARENT PROGRAM SPREADS WARMTH TO LONELY SENIORS

By Carolina Saenz The holidays bring about excitement and joy for many. But they can also be isolating and difficult for some, especially senior citizens in the community.

This disheartening thought is what lead local resident Susan Ritchie to start the Adopt a Grandparent program back in 2013. Adopt a Grandparent is a gift-giving program for senior citizens who live in nursing homes, or independently, and who are maybe without family or feeling lonely. While the first year consisted of 50 gifts, the program has grown to a whooping 280 gifts this year.

“Initially it started out as something I wanted to do as a family, to teach our children about charity and it just grew from there”, Ritchie says.

A lifetime Parisian, Ritchie is passionate about her community.

Driven by the positive reaction from seniors and an overwhelming support from community members and local businesses alike, the Adopt a Grandparent program continues to grow and spread positivity to those who need it most. “It is one-hundred percent community driven. This is not a charity; this is just a family doing this. Any donation given is out of the goodness of their hearts, no tax receipts are given,” Ritchie explains.

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This year 280 seniors will receive gifts through the Adopt a Grandparent program, run

by Susan Ritchie and a group of volunteers.

Photos provided by Susan Ritchie

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A donation of $30 covers the cost of one gift. In previous years, Ritchie collected the donations, did all the shopping, wrapping and even delivered all the items herself. This year she welcomed help from volunteers who wanted to donate and shop for the gifts themselves. Items on a typical wish-list included fluffy blankets, lotions and creams, socks, pyjamas, treats, and even special requests such as Sudoku puzzles, travel books, and plants.

“With isolation (due to Covid) we cannot be in contact. But we are hopeful that the gifts translate the message that we are here, and we do care,” Ritchie says.

Feedback from seniors and nursing homes has been very positive. This year gifts will be sent to Telfer Place Lodge, Penmarvian, Queensview, Trillium Way, Walker’s Green and Sunridge in Burford.

Still children at heart, seniors get giddy when presents are under the tree. And who wouldn’t?

Ritchie sincerely wishes to thank the community for all their support. “It really just boggles my mind how enthusiastic everyone is. It’s a joy to work with them all,” she says.

While there are too many individuals to name, and some who prefer to remain anonymous, Ritchie did acknowledge a few organizations for their efforts: Sojourn Church

19 for their leadership in taking Penmarvian Home under their wing; Paris, St. George and Brant Ave Vet Clinics for giving so generously and always offering to assist with any logistic needs; the staff at the Willett who gave so abundantly to the fund; to Jennifer Church and her coworkers who take on a large number of seniors each year; to Scrub a Dub Dub Soap in Paris for making beautifully scented and wrapped soaps; to Cindy Nelson at Pottery on 8 and Cathy Hall for their handcraft mugs; to Chris Whelan for the horse race game donation; to Jennifer Budd and Ellen Brooker for the lovely lapel pins; to Bev Brooker for donating boxes and ribbons for the pins; to Cheryl Muir for helping with the shopping and to Karen Brown Murray for her help sorting out the wish lists for Telfer Place. It was an all-around community effort.

“I am sure I am forgetting someone, but I couldn’t do a single thing without such amazing people on board.”

Adopt a Grandparent is still accepting monetary donations for this year. Money is used for gifts as well as treats and drinks for senior parties. To donate or reach out, contact Susan Ritchie at sritchie990@gmail.com or join the Adopt a Grandparent Facebook group at https:// www.facebook.com/groups/1786 864768221319

December 11, 2021

“It really just boggles my mind how enthusiastic everyone is. It’s a joy to work with them all,” Susan Ritchie

A local business handcrafted the horse race game that will be gifted to a senior’s facility and gifts such as comfy blankets are always well received.

Photos provided by Susan Ritchie

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WINTER IN PARIS – ICE HARVESTING & SLEIGH RIDES

Paris Past By Chris Whelan At one time Ice Harvesting was a common scene in Paris. Photo Right: Ice being harvested behind Penman’s Mill on West River Street and loaded into a wagon. It will be stored inside covered with hay for use in summer ice boxes.

Left: Rough Sleighing near Paris. Above: The famous painter from Paris, Paul Wickson out for a jaunt on his sled

Above: John Penman out for a jaunt on his sleigh. Right: Downtown Paris full of 1 horse open sleighs & angled parking!

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BEAUTIFUL WINTER SCENES FROM PARIS PAST WINTER AT PENMARVIAN

The original house was built by Hiram Capron in 1846 and known as The Stone House. It took three years and twelve stone masons to complete and is an exemplar of the Greek Revival style popular at the time. Note how the square profile, flat hip roof and roof lantern are reminiscent of Charles Mitchell House built in 1842. When John Penman of Penman Knitting Mills bought the house in 1887 and rechristened it 'Penmarvian', a combination of Penman and McVicar (his wife's maiden name). He commissioned an extensive renovation project in 1889 that turned the Greek Revival temple plan building into a Victorian castle, complete with bay windows, towers, veranda, and decorative ironwork.

After Penman's death in 1932 the house was willed to the Presbyterian Church for use as a home for its aged minister, missionaries, and their wives. Included in his will was $100,000 to go with the home for the purpose of paying for general upkeep and maintenance. The house operated in this

ONE HORSE OPEN SLEIGH This is a scene on Banfield Street approaching Grand River St. North between Captain & Mrs. Cox House built in 1886 The current Kipp Funeral Home and the Charles Whitlaw house built about 1868 still a private residence best viewed from Baird St. (around back) known for it’s beautiful Christmas lights

capacity until 1970 when rising upkeep costs forced the building to close down.

There was an initiative to turn it into senior citizens' housing in 1973 however delays caused the building to remain virtually empty until its new proprietor made it a home for the aged.

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TRAVEL TRIP TO GUAYABITOS OFFERED BREATHTAKING SCENEREY A mini vacation to Guayabitos turned into an adventure – but it offered warmer temperatures, ocean views and new frozen beverages!

During my last two weeks in get off at the bus station close to Ajijic, my friend and I booked a the hotel and take another taxi short trip. direct to the hotel. I asked her if I would be sure to see the taxi Our little mini vacation to when we got off and she assured Guayabitos (Guy-a-beetos) was me I would. quite an adventure….and not in a good way. We had booked The road we travelled wound for through a local travel company hours through beautiful, lush in Ajijic and with all forests and mountains. The things Mexican, language can be scenery was breathtaking at a problem especially for me. times. I knew we were heading to Guayabitos. When the bus Guayabitos is a small town on stopped to let people off and the the Pacific coast north of Puerto driver did not announce the Vallarta, right on the ocean. location, none of us were too There were three of us travelling, worried. There was no visible a taxi had been arranged, by the bus station or taxi stand from travel agency, to take us into where I was sitting. The bus Guadalajara where we were to literally stopped at the side of the take a coach bus. Everyone from road, albeit in the first village of the taxi driver to the lady that any kind we had passed through greeted us at the bus station was once we had left Guadalajara. lovely. So, what we didn’t expect was that we were actually on a We had been told the trip would regular “greyhound” type of take about 4 hours, so at the 5 bus. hour mark I became worried. I went up to the driver and I had picked the tickets up from indicated we were going the travel agent and she had to Guayabitos…I got a surprised explained to me that we would

look…and he pointed behind the bus! Well, he now had three very upset ladies on his hands! Phone calls to the travel agent, her discussion by phone with the bus driver (he didn’t speak English) finally sorted it out. The agent assured us the driver should have confirmed there were 10 people to get off at that first stop and he hadn’t. While our 4-hour trip ended up taking 12 hours, the bus company did see us back to the stop where we should have gotten off. And…on the upside, I can now confirm I have been to Puerto Vallarta! Or at least the bus station.

Once at our hotel, we enjoyed much warmer temperatures than in the mountain town of Ajijic.

There was great access to the ocean, where we swam in tropical waters. There was also a lovely pool. It was an all inclusive, so a few frosty beverages were enjoyed. The food was very good.

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What is behind the non-descript doorways in Ajijic never ceased to amaze me. You go through an archway, tunnel and basically emerge in Shangri-La. Continued from page 22 Our only complaint being the turkey for the American thanksgiving wasn’t cooked. We didn’t eat it and told the chef the next day. He was very apologetic; it had been his day off. The trip home was uneventful, connections were made, and we arrived back in Ajijic tired, but happy.

food was passable, but the setting was definitely the star of this lunch.

The day before I was to leave, the Canadian government announced new COVID testing requirements for international travellers remaining in Canada. There was already the PCR COVID test required, 72 hours before flying. Completing the ArriveCan app and e-declaration. Now it appeared there would be an additional test on arrival at Pearson and mandatory isolation until receiving the results. The announcement came on November 30th and I was flying December 1.

Typical of “just my luck”.

My last few days there I travelled around the town, walking and by bus, and soaked up as much of the great weather as I could! What is behind the non-descript doorways in Ajijic never ceased to amaze me. The Peacock Garden Restaurant being a prime example. I had an hour to kill while, near the plaza, waiting for a store to open. Opening can The trip into Guadalajara airport was quicker than be anywhere from 10 to noon. I spotted the normal, traffic being light. When I checked in, I doorway to the Peacock Garden and thought…ok. was offered an earlier flight and took it.

You go through an archway, tunnel and basically emerge in Shangri-La. Dining tables are scattered Continued on Page 24 throughout a lush, park like grotto with huge trees and yes…beautiful peacocks wandering through.

None of this is visible from the street. I’m sure the

Expect the unexpected when you visit Mexico.

What is behind a doorway may surprise you! The Peacock Garden Restaurant is a prime example!

The Paris Independent Continued from Page 23 The earlier flight gave me time in Mexico City for a nice, late lunch and plenty of time to find my gate. Gate 57 was at the farthest wing of the airport. An hour before we were to take off, I noticed there weren’t very many people at our gate. I checked with the girl beside me that this was the flight to Toronto. “Si”. Yes, Toronto. Was her response. Minutes later the young lady was wildly waving her arms following an announcement in Spanish, beckoning me to follow her.

I took this to mean there was a last-minute gate change! I lost the young lady about halfway through the airport. The new gate was in the other farthest wing of the airport. By waving my boarding pass at multiple personnel, I was able to find my way and board the flight home.

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toward the exit I heard “I love you too” echoed back to me.

I admit to being very confused by the yes and no of what was required, but grateful that I didn’t need to quarantine. I did hear on the news that the testing was “random” to start.

Well, that’s the end of my Mexican travels. I must say I thoroughly enjoyed my time. The people are lovely, friendly, and hard working. Everywhere I went they were cleaning, painting, building, and making their world a little brighter. If you want a trip off the beaten path and not at a mega, allinclusive resort, a small town like Ajijic is perfect.

Adiós mi amigos! Karon

Photos & article submitted by local resident Karon Sinning, as she wrapped up her adventures During boarding in Guadalajara it was confirmed through Mexico that in Toronto, I would have another COVID test and need to self isolate until the results were done.

Whether it was the late gate change or an unknown reason, our flight was delayed about an hour in leaving Mexico City. It was about 12:45 am when we landed at Pearson and getting our luggage at about 1:30 am, there was indeed an announcement saying that “international travellers remaining in Canada needed to complete a COVID test and self isolate.” I think the group of very tired travellers all gave a united groan, but resolutely dragged our luggage carts toward the “testing” arrows.

Walking up to the area, there was a large, empty section to my right and temporary partitions funnelling travellers toward one man. There was only one couple in front of me and once he checked their passports, he pointed them toward the exit. I handed over my passport, he looked and pointed me towards the exit too. Not wanting to make a mistake, I said “is there testing over there?” No, he said, just go. Relief, for my travel weary body. “I love you” I said, and as I moved

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F I N A N C I A L M AT T E R S

SAVE THE SLIPPERY SLOPES FOR SKIING Your Money Team with Glenn Gaudet

How’s that budget holding up right about now? If you didn’t overindulge in Black Friday or Cyber Monday shopping, kudos to you. The temptation to break the bank and slide down the slippery slope into uncontrolled holiday spending is especially fierce this time of year.

But keeping a sober and smart - yet joyful - attitude about your December finances can prevent a painful January debt hangover. Just like personal limits, financial limits can help you to prioritize your financial health and set you up for success.

Even if your end-of-year budget IS already blown, don’t fret.

There are many ways to refocus and realign goals to finish 2021 well. Your 2022 self will thank you! These are some examples of healthy financial limits you can create or enforce: •Create a budget and a savings and investment plan centered around your financial goals •Set clear limits on debt and lending •Stick to a holiday spending plan

•Let go of any guilt and advocate for your financial health with family and friends

share your wisdom Glenn Gaudet is the Lead advisor of a wealth advisory team helping families and business owners since 1993.

Glenn holds many designations including the Certified Financial Planner, Elder Planning Counselor, Certified Professional Consultant on Aging and the Registered Retirement Counsellor. 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 Glenn to answer in this column?

Email him at glenn.guadet@igpwm.ca

MAKING A DIFFERENCE!

•Communicate your limits and

The Paris Independent reported about a local family’s journey to collect items to donate to McMaster Children’s Hospital in our November 20th edition. On Sunday, December 5, the Gurneys made the trip to MAC to drop off clothes, pajamas and toys generously donated by the Paris community. Pictured are Sarah, James and Hudson making the annual donation.

The family would like to extend a sincere thankyou to everyone who contributed this year – every year they are truly blown away by the generosity of this small town.

Photos by Sarah Gurney

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Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford Saturday December 11, 2021 Ghostbusters: Afterlife Standard 12:50p.m. 4:00p.m. 7:00p.m. 10:10p.m.

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

3D 6:40p.m. 9:30p.m.

West Side Story Standard 11:30a.m. 3:00p.m. 6:30p.m. 10:00p.m.

House of Gucci Standard 12:30p.m. 2:20p.m. 6:00p.m. 9:00p.m.

Eternals Standard 12:20p.m. 2:40p.m. 6:10p.m. 9:40p.m.

Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City Standard 12:40p.m. 4:20p.m. 7:20p.m. 10:15p.m.

Clifford the Big Red Dog Standard 11:40a.m.4:10p.m.

Belfast Standard 3:30p.m. 6:20p.m. 9:50p.m.

Venom: Let There Be Carnage Standard 6:50p.m. 9:20p.m.