The Paris Independent for Saturday February 26th, 2022

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY Nova Vita Fundraiser Page 15 CHANT OF THE JUNGLE Lions Club history Pages 19-21

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The Paris Independent Saturday, February 26, 2022

THIS WEEK In Council

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Brave the Cold

CHALLENGE COINS

Page 8 In Sports

GOLDEN WOLFPACK! Pages 10 - 11

In Community

‘WOMEN BUILD’ FOR HABITAT Page 14

Campers from the Paris Springs Park spent three nights camping out last weekend to raise money and awareness for homelessness. The group set and met their $10,000 goal. Pictured from left to right are Paul White, Wayne Mills, Mike Taylor, Susan Campbell, Randy Knowles, Jim Mitchell, Keenan Meyer and Brad Mackenzie. Absent were: Ruth Thrasher, Brad and Shawna Bray, C.J. Bowlby, Derek Wilhelmus, Shane Cuthberg, Andy Meijerink and Amanda Wallace-Raymore.

See complete story on pages 3-4.

Photo by Casandra Turnbull

Are you ready to make a Move ? Contact me, Your Experienced Local Realtor!

County County Offices Offices Closed Closed

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February 26, 2022

COMMUNITY CALENDAR STORYTIME! Registration is open for the library’s #PaperBagPrincessWeek storytime!

Register today for your activity kit. Then, watch Miss Kerri online anytime between Monday, February 28 and Saturday, March 5 for an interactive storytime! *Visit ow.ly/nq3V50HQSBw to register.

PDHS REUNION MAY 6 & 7 AT PARIS FAIRGROUNDS – REGISTER NOW! Those who entered Grade 9 at Paris High in 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967 or 1968 are invited to attend. Meet and Greet, 6 pm. May 7/22: BBQ Lunch, afternoon social, and evening dinner.

Paris Fairgrounds. COVID restrictions apply. Contact Margaret Fleury by March 5 for pricing and registration. Email: mfleury58@gmail.com or phone: 519-442-4018.

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VIRTUAL COFFEE HOUR FOR SENIORS- Every Wednesday in March at 10 a.m. Register online at brantlibrary.ca/calendar

TRIVIA NIGHT- Every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Test your knowledge, invite the family!

Brantlibrary.ca/trivianight COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR – Saturday, Feb 26 join St. Paul’s Church members as they walk to raise money for people experiencing homelessness. If you are unable to walk, consider making a donation to end homelessness through Coldest Night of the Year website (#CNOY22) https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/T eamFundraisingPage.aspx?teamID= 977198&langPref=en-CA . Please call the church for more details on time and meeting location: 519442-4223.

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

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

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

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February 26, 2022

COMMUNITY NEWS Campers Brave the Cold for a good cause

By Casandra Turnbull There's only one way to gain a true understanding of a situation - and that is by experiencing it, or in this case, living it.

A group of close to 20 individuals learned that lesson last weekend when they got a firsthand look at what it would be like to be homeless in Canada, in the heart of winter. Just hours after the latest winter storm blew through the region dumping several inches of snow, members of the Paris Springs Seasonal Park met for a completely different camping experience, one they won't soon forget.

They ‘Braved the Cold’ for a three-night campout, mostly in tents - although one creative camper made a makeshift bed out of a bobsled. As the temperatures dipped below zero and the winds howled against the tarps they used to create a barrier from the open field behind them, every participant gained a tiny bit of insight into the tragic living conditions on streets across our country.

While they were fortunate enough to have food and full belly throughout the weekend, they did experience the hardships associated with keeping warm, taking care of one another and making do with the very little supplies they brought with them.

On April 28th, 2021, Brantford Brant conducted a Point in Time Count Report to identify the number of people experiencing homelessness on a single night at a specific point in time. This report is conducted every two years under Canada’s National Homelessness Strategy. Of the 156 individuals who answered the questions, 67% were men and 30% women and the remaining did not identify.

It was clear skies on this evening, but the wind and freezing temperatures throughout the weekend gave campers a true experience living outdoors during a Canadian winter.

Photo by Susan Campbell

The majority of those who were surveyed were between the ages of 25-39 years old and 35.9% identified as Indigenous. Almost half admitted to experiencing long-term homelessness (as far back as their childhood) and 58.3% said they identified as being homeless for a total time of six months or more over the past year. A staggering 88.5% reported having at least one source of income. In total, at least 238 people were homeless that night in April 2021 and 152 of them were permanently unsheltered or staying in temporary emergency shelters.** Continued on Page 4

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February 26, 2022

COMMUNITY NEWS “This past weekend was by far one of the best experiences I’ve had as a camper. I’m so proud of everyone.”

The statistics are astounding and it’s happening here in your community. Homelessness is no longer an issue in just the larger cities, it’s happening everywhere.

The obstacles to securing housing vary from no or limited income to health issues, family breakdown, criminal history, addiction, mental health issues and definite lack of affordable housing. No matter the root cause, no one should have to live on the streets. That’s why Randy and Cordelia Knowles, owners of Paris Springs Park, organized Brave the Cold Fundraiser to raise awareness and money for local agencies who aid people in need. Plans for the campout started last summer and really developed over the last few months. Fundraising began in October and participants started gathering pledges ahead of the event. They collected raffle prizes, hosted a food drive and an anonymous local business owner donated a travel trailer, completely renovated inside and out. Tickets were sold for the grand prize trailer and the lucky winner was one of the park’s very own seasonal campers, Bob Beer. Participants set and met their $10,000 fundraising goal.

The money will be dispersed between several agencies: The Rosewood House, Brantford Regional Indigenous Support Centre, Nova Vita and the Salvation Army.

proud of everyone - and the crew we had was the best. I can’t wait to do this again next year.”

On that note, organizers have announced this will become an annual event.

“Randy and Cordelia bought this park a little over two years ago and have worked hard to create a community,” explained Park Manager Catherine McAlley.

“They wanted to give back and Randy thought the idea of braving the cold for three nights to raise awareness and to get a little bit of an idea of what the homeless go through every day would be a good way to raise money for the cause.”

While approximately 18 people braved the elements, there were many more participants behind the scenes who contributed to the fundraiser’s success by collecting One camper turned an old bobsled raffle prizes, helping serve chili into a bed for the three night camp out at Paris Springs Park. on a bun to raise extra funds, Photo by Casandra Turnbull providing meals for the campers, dropping off skids of wood to keep the fire going and helping **For more information on Brantford’s Point in Time Count spread the word and collect Report, please visit pledges, said McAlley. https://www.brantford.ca/en/livin Participating camper Mike Taylor ghere/resources/Documents/Hous said: “This past weekend was by ing/PIT-Report-2021-Sept16far one of the best experiences 2021.pdf I’ve had as a camper. I’m so

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February 26, 2022

FA M I LY D AY F U N TO THE LEFT -The Plumstead family had some fun making perogies for Family Day. Pictured are Lindsay Plumstead, Madilyn Plumstead, Cathy File, Tracy Plumstead BELOW - Janice Labron said they took advantage of the warmer temperatures to enjoy their first take-out lunch on the deck, under the sun!

The Pyenburg family enjoyed the $1 Family Skate at the Brant Community Sports Complex– pictured above is Lincoln Pynenburg, age 6 and to the right is Jake Pynenburg, age 4.

Frank (above) and Brenda Crocco spent the day in Niagara Falls

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February 26, 2022

FA M I LY D AY F U N Alice Easton, and her dad Shawn, got some fresh air at Axton Park, before all the snow started to melt away.

The Allgood family spent part of Family Day exploring the Myrtleville House Museum, which offered free activities for families to enjoy. Pictured (middle) are Emery and Jace Allgood taking a walk through the historical house. They rounded out the visit with some hot chocolate at an outdoor campfire.

Callie enjoys some time at Kinderplay located at the Syl Apps Community Centre

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February 26, 2022

COMMUNITY NEWS Blowing the whistle on crossing guard safety COUNTY OF BRANT: The County of Brant is enhancing safety at all school crosswalks where crossing guards are stationed.

The guards will first sound the whistle with one long blast when they determine it is safe to enter the crosswalk, alerting motorists they are stepping out into the crosswalk. They will Effective Tuesday February 22, then sound two short whistle 2022, all crossing guards will be blasts indicating that pedestrians equipped with electronic may cross the street. whistles which are designed to be louder than the sound of Staff brought in the whistles to traffic at the push of a button. provide audible control and to

enhance overall safety at our school crossing locations.

School crossing guards are regulated to stop traffic movement under the authority of the Highway Traffic Act and play a vital role in keeping children safe.

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February 26, 2022

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COUNCIL NEWS Council supports Challenge Coin initiative in Brant

By Casandra Turnbull A specially designed County of Brant OPP Challenge Coin is in the works and it has the full support of county council.

Councillor John Peirce brought the item to council on Tuesday, following discussions from the Police Services Board. Challenge Coins have a long-standing history with the Military, Police Services and First Responders.

It’s a signification tradition that’s designed to enhance morale, recognize special achievements and used to signify special occasions or show personal appreciation. Brant OPP Acting Staff Sergeant Ben Gutenberg has been directly involved in the design and production of many Challenge Coins and has worked with Brant OPP members to draft

a design that incorporates a number of important Brant elements. The overall goal is to help support morale and build on the history and the legacy of those who serve in this community.

The approximate cost to design, produce and deliver 300 coins is $2,000 USD. The Police Services Board was prepared to fund the project entirely, but Councillor Peirce suggested they bring the concept before council to see if councillors would agree to split the cost. In a show of overwhelming support, council unanimously agreed to cover the entire cost of the project.

“You know we don’t have much of a budget (PSB). This would be a good place to take the burden off the Police Service Board

budget,” said Mayor David Bailey in response to Councillor Gatward’s question on how or who would fund the project.

Councillors also had some questions surrounding the use of the coin. Would it be distributed to officers only or members of the general public? Peirce advised every member of the Brant OPP would receive a coin and extras will be used to recognize special moments or heroic acts from citizens.

Councillor Robert Chambers said he whole heartedly supported the idea, as he held up a 1952 King George collectible nickel he’s cherished for many years. He stated, “The little things mean a lot to people. I’m all for it.”

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February 26, 2022

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COUNCIL NEWS Organizer seeks late approval to submit grant request for Billy Bash Demo Derby

By Casandra Turnbull If the thought of a demolition derby and fireworks revs up your engine, look no further than Burford, Ontario this summer.

The Billy Bash Demo Derby will take place July 1 to July 3rd at the Burford Fairgrounds. One event organizer, Chris Howell, was before council this week asking for grant consideration to help with the cost of the fireworks. Howell missed the February 4th Community Grant Program deadline and respectfully asked council to accept their application in the grant review process, currently underway. Event organizers said they missed the deadline for two reasons, one because they were not aware of the new grant application process, which varied from 2017 when they last requested funds from the county and also because they waited until the last minute to confirm the event would take place, given all the changes in public health restrictions.

Councillors noted there were already application submitted from the Burford Agricultural Society, however, Howell clarified separate funding is required for this event – specifically for the fireworks – and would be hard to execute without support from Council. He went on to explain this would be a free and fun event for residents who’ve suffered through two years of lockdowns and event cancellations. The fireworks are scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 2.

Council unanimously supported Howell’s request and the application will be forwarded to the Community Grant Program committee.

The Grants program was developed in 2020 and returned in 2021, with great success, according to the County’s website. It’s a more streamlined approach to ensuring application meet the proper eligibility requirements for funding. In 2021 37 grants were approved totalling $320,363.

Government funds to help modernize county records The County of Brant is receiving just over $95,000 from the provincial government to help with modernizing records at the municipal offices and the library branches.

The funding comes from the $125 million the Ontario government invested in the Municipal Modernization Program for 2022/2023. The program ‘enables small and rural municipalities to become more efficient and save taxpayers’ dollars.’

"Our government recognizes that COVID-19 has created challenges for everyone, including small and rural municipalities," said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, when the program was first announced in January 2021. "By working hand in hand with our local partners, we have ensured that vital services continue to be delivered to individuals, families

and businesses. The funding we are announcing today will build on the progress we have made together and allow for further review and modernization of local services so we can get the best return on taxpayers' dollars.”

Mayor David Bailey received confirmation from the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing in late January 2022 that the County’s application was approved through the third intake for the program. The County will allocate $55,736 of funding to Library service modernization and $39,686 towards County of Brant Records management modernization. The county must complete a final report that forecasts annual savings and other efficiency outcomes by February 28 2023.

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February 26, 2022

S P O RT S U13LL Team 1 – Ayr Hockey Challenge Champions

U15LL Team 1 – Ayr Hockey Challenge Champions

GOLDEN WOLFPACK! The Paris Wolfpack had a very successful weekend The Wolfpack came from behind after being down at the Ayr Flames Challenge on February 18-20th, 2-0 in the second period to force overtime. After a bringing home some gold hardware. very tense and exciting overtime period, the Wolfpack came out on top with a score of 3The U13LL Team 1, coached by Matt Valade, had a 2. Congratulations to all the players on their 2-1-0 record to move into the semi-finals championship team effort. against New Hamburg Sunday morning. They won the semi-final game with a score of 5-2. They then Continued on Page 11 faced their season rivals, Ingersoll, in the finals.

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February 26, 2022

S P O RT S AYR HOCKEY CHALLENGE The U15LL Team 1, coached by Joanne Miranda, easily eased into the semi-finals with a 3-0-0 record after the round robin games. They faced a tough New Hamburg team in the semi-finals but came out on top with a score of 5-3.

The U15 championship game was scheduled immediately following the U13 championship game and the U15 team didn't want to disappoint the Paris fans. The Wolfpack came out strong and scored 2 goals within the first 3 minutes of the period. Simcoe then found their energy and took the lead 4-3 over Paris with 30 seconds left in the third period.

There was no shortage of action in this last minute of play with Paris shifting into second gear and scoring to force another overtime nailbiter. The U15 team found the back of the net first in overtime, beating Simcoe 5-4 and securing Paris’ second gold medal of the day. This is the second win for Coach Miranda at this tournament, as she coached the U13's to a win in 2020. Congratulations to both teams!

Submitted by Krista Cadwell

Register Here: https://pariscurlingclub.com/eventRegister.php/pcc-mysterybonspiel-2022

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February 26, 2022

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S P O R T S Panthers hockey falls short in championship game

The PDHS Panthers hockey team finished second in the Athletic Association of Brant, Haldimand and Norfolk playoffs on Thursday, following a 4-1 loss to Caledonia. All photos by Michelle Malvaso – more on page 13

By Casandra Turnbull The Paris District High School Hockey team played some exciting championship hockey this week to wrap up the season.

The team faced off against the North Park Trojans in an intense semi final game on Tuesday.

Paris’ goalies, Brendan Seibert and Brennan Adams, held their own between the pipes to secure a 3-0 shutout win and a trip to the championship game. Thomas Kitchen and Matt McRuer scored two in the first period with Nolan Carpenter picking up the assist on Kitchen’s goal.

Jacob Adams scored the final goal of the game in the second period, set up by Kitchen.

Fresh off the momentum from

Tuesday’s win, the Panthers laced up for the Athletic Association of Brant, Haldimand and Norfolk Championship game on Thursday afternoon against Caledonia’s McKinnon Park Secondary School. The Panthers were second heading into playoffs, while the underdog Blue Devils just squeaked into the playoffs as the sixth place team.

was difficult to match. “It was disappointing to not win, however, the coaches and the PDHS community are so proud of our boys for getting this far,” she added. It was Paris’ first loss since November 23 when they dropped a 2-1 final to Pauline Johnson Collegiate.

Paris’ lone goal came in the second period when Simon O’Taki fired the puck up high, High School Coach Jacqueline past the McKinnon goalie, on a Guz, who shares the bench with penalty shot to put Paris on the Coaches Gary Gardner, Shane board.

Siebert and Brendan Siebert, described the match up as “a physical game and a hard-fought Additional Photos on game.” Paris fell 4-1 against a Page 13 determined McKinnon Park squad, whose size and strength

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S P O R T S

Simon Otaki (above) celebrates following a top shelf penalty goal. He scored Paris’ only goal in a 4-1 loss to McKinnon Park on Thursday afternoon.

ABOVE: Matt McRuer prepares to take a shot during Thursday’s championship game. LEFT: Paris goalie Brennan Adams tries to slide over and save the shot from Caledonia’s Ethan Pauls.

Pauls ended up scoring to record Caledonia’s first goal of the game.

RIGHT: Paris’ Jacob Adams battles with a McKinnon Park player to gain control of the puck.

All photos by Michelle Malvaso

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February 26, 2022

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COUNTY NEWS Habitat for Humanity puts call out for Women Build campaign

By Casandra Turnbull Habitat Heartland Brant-Norfolk Chapter's is calling women from all walks of life to join together and give back locally.

Women Build is a program that encourages women to actively participate in the construction of a new home from the first stages of fundraising, right up to build day – and no experience is required!

Approximately 37% of Habitat Heartland Homes are purchased by single moms, so supporting this cause creates a sense of solidarity and pride, while giving women in need a hand-up. Habitat for Humanity’s 2022 project will be the Kent Dixon Memorial Build in Oakland. It will be the first Habitat home to be built to passive house standards in Canada.

The new home will combine sustainability and efficiency with affordability. The County of Brant donated the residential lot to Habitat for Humanity in July 2021.

“I would like to officially announce that the County of Brant is thrilled to partner with Habitat for Humanity Brant-Norfolk and offer a residential building lot in the Oakhill community. This is the first time that the County has partnered with Habitat for Humanity and we are beyond excited to provide a local family the opportunity to own their home,” said Mayor David Bailey at the time of the announcement.

So how do you become involved? The first step is to register online and create your own profile page unique to you and your team. Step two, let the fundraising begin! All donations from Women Build go directly to help build a home. Your impact ensures a local family in need has a safe,

Habitat for Humanity Heartland Homes Photo

decent and affordable home. There is a minimum fundraising contribution of $2,500 per team.

Once you’ve reached your fundraising goal, it’s time to book your Women Build Team Day to join Habitat members on site. Team Captains will coordinate with Habitat volunteers to ensure all health and safety training is completed before everyone arrives on-site.

Today, Habitat has helped more than 29 million people around the world to achieve strength, stability and self-reliance through safe, decent and affordable shelter. “An affordable and safe place to live is more important than ever for families,” said Dan Brooks, CEO of Habitat for Humanity BrantNorfolk. “We are proud and grateful to bring the success of Habitat’s legacy to the County of Brant, while being innovative to build in partnership with a local family, volunteers, donors and neighbours, a new forever home. It’s a new beginning and a momentous occasion to celebrate.”

To learn more or register your team today, please visit https://womenbuild.habithon.ca/?fbclid=IwAR3_g F0EEa7GbjSxZDBCmHO3tAJVLQnj3RKkvEM7 V1AqpwyHWiz0sSHHiMg

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February 26, 2022

COMMUNITY NEWS RAISE FUNDS, AWARENESS & HOPE Supporting Nova Vita on International Women’s Day (Brantford, ON) – Nova Vita is pleased to announce the return of Virtual 2.0, an online fundraiser that takes place on International Women’s Day on March 9th.

Presented by Brantford Apparel, this fun and interactive event takes place in the comfort and safety of your home, creating a virtual experience that will celebrate, inspire, and empower, all while making a difference for Nova Vita and the programs and services it provides to all members of the community.

Some virtual event features will include: a gourmet take-home dinner from the Brantford Golf & Country Club, fundraising games, virtual silent auction, and inspiring presentations, including the chance to chat with Executive Director, Natasha Dobler. Nova Vita has set a big goal to raise $25,000 this year.

“A major part of this event is connecting with our participants and sharing how Nova Vita is truly ‘More Than A Bed.’ The daily demands that we experience are not unlike those of the women and their children who come to stay at Nova Vita,” said Anne Herbison-Ruddell, Community Development Manager at Nova Vita. “Part of our fundraising efforts at this year’s event will directly support the urgent need to replace our washers and dryers. As a 33-bed emergency shelter, laundry is an essential part of everyday life. New laundry equipment is a need that will not only help our residents and staff but also significantly reduce energy consumption and overall costs for Nova Vita.”

With so many organizations being significantly affected by escalating costs associated with the pandemic (over $228,000 for Nova Vita last year), funds raised at #NovaVitaIWD will help ensure Nova Vita can continue offering safe

shelter and essential support services to women and families impacted by violence and homelessness in the community.

To be part of the virtual celebration, purchase your tickets at www.novavita.org/participate/ They are $75 each and include a take-home dinner from the Brantford Golf & Country Club, FUNdraiser Purse, sweet treat from SWEET Bakery, gift bag, charitable tax receipt, and Zoom link for event participation. Tickets are available until March 2nd. For more information about the event, to purchase tickets or to become a sponsor, contact Jessica Powless, Special Events & Public Education Coordinator at events@novavita.org

RESILIENT TOGETHER! Statistics taken from Nova Vita Domestic Violence Prevention Services 2020-2021 Annual report

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February 26, 2022

COMMUNITY INTEREST

40 YEARS OF UNCONDITIONAL LOVE Shelley & Steve Deane reflect on a remarkable journey of Fostering children

By Carolina Saenz Finding a true passion in life is not always easy, especially one that has a positive impact in the lives of those who need it most.

Shelley and Steve Deane, however, have defied the odds and continue to do what they love most. Foster parents for 41 years as of April 1st, 2022, the happy couple continue in this path purely out of love for the children. Being born, raised, and married right here in Paris, the couple have a simple reason for fostering all these years.

“I’ve always loved kids and babies,” Deane said.

“What kept me going is the children, watching them grow, reach milestones and overcome challenges,” she continued. And with a vibrant voice full of energy, she admitted that she thoroughly enjoys and loves those midnight feedings and early rise mornings.

Together, the couple have fostered over onehundred children of all different ages, including newborns, physically challenged and medically fragile children. They can foster two to three children at a time under the age of three-yearsold. The ultimate goal with every child that enters their home is to take good care of them until they are able to return to their family or find a forever-family through adoption. While some children stay with them for an average of a year, others have stayed much longer. It all depends on their individual situations.

The Deane’s have two biological children of their own, ages 50 and 47, as well as an adopted daughter aged 25. “She came at four days old and never left,” Deane recalled with a chuckle.

Continued on Page 17

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February 26, 2022

COMMUNITY INTEREST However, that is the most difficult aspect of fostering, knowing you will have to say goodbye to the children, which makes it a bittersweet experience. “It’s the absolute heart-breaking part of this journey. When they have a family, and you know the child is leaving your home in less than two weeks. We get very attached, and we just love them. Absolutely love them,” Deane explains.

But knowing what’s in the best interest of the children and seeing them find a forever home is also the biggest reward. “Hopefully watching them go to beautiful families or if the parents are ready to take their children back, watching the reunification of the children is the biggest reward,” she added.

The silver lining is many of the children choose to stay in touch, so sometimes goodbye isn’t always permanent. “I thank God everyday that a lot of them keep in touch with us. That’s very rewarding.” And, she said, it gives you hope there’s a light at the end of the tunnel for these kids.

Fostering children has given Shelley & Steve a unique perspective on life and positively impacted their lives in so many ways.

“And it has changed us as far as we don’t judge anybody. You can’t judge people. We just do what we do here and love the children until they are adopted or placed back with family,” she explained.

As for challenges with everyday routines, Deane said it is like what most moms experience.

“Getting stuff done around the house with little kids (is a challenge), but we make it work!”

It’s definitely an alternate lifestyle compared to friends their age who are living their golden retirement years with plenty of travelling. But she wouldn’t have it any other way. It’s been their life’s calling.

As foster parents, Shelley and Steve work closely with Children’s Aid Society workers who offer support to the children and foster homes. And although Covid has changed that dynamic slightly, the Deane’s support system of family and

friends, as well as their wonderful church family, has not waivered.

A solid support system is exactly what’s required because the process to become a foster parent can be long and it certainly isn’t for everyone. You must complete a course, provide references, and have a safe home study conducted just to get started.

But according to the Deanes, “It’s not a job. It’s a calling that we just love. It’s our life,” she said.

“You give a lot of yourself. You give your home, your heart. And your heart is going to break,” she continues. “I have a lot of friends who support me when they know a child is going. Even if it is just with ice cream and a box of Kleenex. But at the end, it is all about the children, not about me nor my husband. They all need a forever home, wherever it may be,” she concludes.

Asked if they plan to continue fostering, her unequivocal answer is: “Absolutely!”

So, if you see Steve, who has affectionately become known as “the guy with the buggy” in the south end, don’t be shy and offer a smile. An example of kindness and selfless love, Shelley and Steve Deane make Paris proud!

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February 26, 2022

H E A LT H Y L I F E S T Y L E The secret to fitness success: Stick to it!

Just for the Health of It! with Coach Shell What is the best workout program to lose fat? What is the best workout program to get abs? What is the best workout program to gain muscle? I get flooded with these questions in my studio and my inbox weekly.

Everyone always wants to know what the ONE workout program is that is going to get them the results they are looking for.

They are jumping on bandwagons of new programs, new techniques or new equipment in hopes that this is the ONE.

Your trainer can put together a program of 'big lifts' to help you gain muscle but if you miss class more than we miss the glory days before 2020 then muscle gains will not be made.

The more complex answer is that in order to lose fat, get abs, and/or gain muscle you need to couple a NUTRITION program with a solid workout program that allows for PROGRESSIVE OVERLOAD and ensures that all muscle groups are targeted weekly in a way that stimulates and challenges them to grow and is presented in a way that keeps your mind interested so that you continue to do it.

Unless you have great genetics, you will never see the results you are looking for in the gym if you don't start paying attention to what's on your spoon. For There is a simple answer and a example, you could lift weights 7 complex one to these questions. days a week but if your protein intake is not high then you will The simple answer is the ONE not build the muscle you are YOU CAN STICK WITH. seeking. Nutrition is KEY and A personal trainer can give you always will be for fat loss, muscle the best program in the world gain, or to get the coveted but if you cancel your sessions washboard stomach. as often as COVID regulations Progressive overload is key to change then you will not lose seeing progress in terms of getting bodyfat. Your trainer can design a program to build your ABS but stronger as well as building if you don't follow it the six muscle tone in the gym. If you pack you own will still only be continuously pick up those 15pound beloved dumbbells and the beer in your fridge.

never try to go heavier then your muscles don't have any reason to grow.

Variety in workouts is not necessary for your muscles to grow BUT doing workouts in different ways each week or each month keeps YOU from getting bored and moving on to something new which then with time and patience will help you meet your goals.

Thus, the bottom line is in order to meet your goal you need to find a trainer or gym or workout program/routine that you love and STICK TO IT. Results will not happen overnight but with time you will get to your goals and then if you continue to do what you did to get there, then you will KEEP those results permanently.

Coach Shell is the proud owner of Gaudet Fitness Solutions (aka GFS) She runs classes in person and online, offers video recordings of classes daily, and has coached hundreds of women to better health and wellness with her B-Lean Nutrition program. She also runs 3-4 large weight loss challenges each year that women in Paris and surrounding areas love to join.

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February 26, 2022

S E RV I C E C L U B S New Millennium Brings New Challenges: Lions Club continues to thrive in the community CHANT OF THE JUNGLE

By Diane McHutchion

- Sight First Eye Program

- Diabetes Awareness and Screening, plus donations to The 1990s saw Canada’s Camp Dorset Dialysis Camp first female astronaut, - Project Pride – Canadian Roberta Bondar, travel into flag and certificates to space. The World Wide Web Grade 1 students was invented and cellphones, although very - Dog Guide Training cumbersome, became the The hard work, dedication, norm. The completion of the and desire to serve the 403 made many more people community of Paris was aware of our pretty little accomplished proudly by town, resulting in a higher Our Lions Club’s 42 increase in our town’s members. Our motto, “We population.

Serve”, was, as always, our Our Paris Lions Club met guiding principle! the growing needs of our The new millennium was a town with enthusiasm and decade of challenges and dedication. Many fundsuccesses in Canada. While raising events, plus local Y2K caused very little contributions enabled our disruption to our lives, the Club to serve the following: tragedy of 9/11 brought - Cenotaph improvements world events right into our homes.

Canadians - Quest Program for life experienced a new pride as skills – grades K-8 the citizens of Gander, - Public Speaking contests Newfoundland opened its homes and hearts to help the for students thousands of people - Adopt a Highway garbage stranded because of the cleanup tragedy in New York City.

- Crime Stoppers Program

Left to right, Kelly Sue McCormick, Stephen Hendry, Lorraine Hagen and Steve Kempert during a cheque presentation to the Canadian Diabetes Association. The Lions Club was also the recipient of a cheque to benefit Camp Dorset.

Sun Media Newspaper Clipping

SARS created a whole new challenge for our health-care system, but we ended the decade with the best Winter Olympics Canada had ever experienced!

Along with the over 30 projects and donations made to and for various groups and individuals, our 41 member Paris Lions Club accomplished the following: Continued on Page 20

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S E RV I C E C L U B S

The Lions donated $1,000 in support of The Grand River Grannies in the first decade of the new millennium Sun Media news clipping

- supported the Keg Lane Fair

- sponsored and chaired our local Canada Day Celebrations - provided 3 scholarships for Paris District High School - supported the CNIB in the collection of glasses for 3rd world countries - donated monies to Participation House in Brantford - continued providing autumn outings for seniors - donated $1000 to the Grand River Grannies

closer to 18,000 people!

Your Paris Lions Club remained constant through every decade, fundraising and returning these funds directly back into the community. Many purchases were made to enhance our main fundraiser, namely our Food Truck. Our Club held its first Maple Syrup Festival in April 2012. This event expanded to become an annual main street event, attracting thousands of people to our beautiful town!

The following projects, along with our continued commitment to previously mentioned goals, were accomplished during the last decade:

It was certainly a decade of turmoil, but the members of our Lions Club never faltered in its -On May 19th, our Club pledged resolve to serve the citizens of $1,000 to North Ward School for playground equipment, plus Paris. $1,000 to Brant Youth The population of Paris in 1931 Basketball to assist with the was 4,137. Today, we could construction of a volleyball court easily say that the population is

AND a pledge towards a new Frisbee Golf Course on Green Lane.

-On July 11, 2015, the Grand Opening of the new Walter Williams Amphitheatre was celebrated.

-In 2016, our Club donated $15 000 to the new ball diamond project. We also donated $1000 to the Fort MacMurray fire disaster.

-In July 2017, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held to celebrate all the new playground installations in Lions Park.

-On June 8th, 2019, the Pete Lavoie Ball Diamond was officially opened.

And then, arrived.

in

2020,

Covid

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S E RV I C E C L U B S Despite this international pandemic which saw our lives, for the most part, turned upside down.

Our Paris Lions Club became even more creative with ways to continue fundraising and donating to our community. Our “Catch the Ace” online fundraising project began planning in February 2020, with the first draw happening on May 18th.

This is an ongoing project. Our Club also raffled off 3 quilts, donated by the Paris Quilting Bees.

Our Club pledged $50,000 to the new Cowan Community Health Hub, with our first donation of $15,000 being presented this past summer.

first Paris Lions Club members with us to continue serving our beautiful Paris community.

If you are interested in participating in a service club, please visit our website www.lionsclubofparis.ca or call our Club Secretary, Lorne Reid at 442-3435. Become a Paris Lion and help us ROAR!

On March 16, 2021, our Paris Lions Club celebrated its 90th anniversary!

The International Lions Emblem displays two lions....one looking to the past with pride and one looking to the future with dedication. Looking back at the first Paris Lions Club of the 1930s, there is so much of which to be proud, despite the Depression and a World War on the horizon.

Looking to the future and despite the many challenges of Covid, our Paris Lions Club, with a membership of 47 men and women, gives us much hope and the same dedication to continue Lorne Reid Receives the Helen Keller Fellowship at the serving our community. As we face the Paris Lions 70th anniversary dinner. Lorne is still a challenges of 2022, we will carry the spirit of our member of the club today.

Ayr News – Newspaper Clipping

Support The Lions Club, Support Your Community The Ace is still in play!

Grab your tickets for the next draw: https://parislionscatcht heace.ca

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February 26, 2022

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