The Paris Independent for Saturday November 26, 2022

Photo credit: Steve Howes

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

HOLIDAY MARKET & VENDOR SHOW

TODAY - November 26th from 10 am to 4 pm! Brantview Apples & Cider and Howell Road Cider Co. presents our Annual Holiday Market at the farm. We will be celebrating local craft artisans, good eats and craft cider. There are no parking or entrance fees, but if you could bring a non-perishable food donation for our local food bank that would be great!

LIBRARY LIBATIONS GAME NIGHT

WITH THE LIBRARY - December 1 at 7:00 PM. It's Game Night with the Library! Compete against other tables as Library staff lead you and your friends through rounds of interactive games! Book a table, grab your friends, and order a round for a night of games and good company. Reserve your table in advance; space is limited. Reserve online at brantlibrary.ca/calendar or connect with your local branch and sign up with staff. This is a free, in-person event taking place at the Paris Beer Company (Wincey Mills location). Food and drink are available at participants' expense

A HUNTER CHRISTMAS- November 17th December 23rd Come get cozy with the Hunter family and marvel at the Christmas decorations at the Homestead. The museum will be decorated to celebrate ‘A Hunter Christmas.’ We use and showcase traditional methods that the Hunter family would be proud to share with you as we travel throughout the home. Each visit to the museum will include a fully guided tour through both floors of the home. As an added bonus, any children who come to visit will receive a special present to take home! Tickets must be purchased in advance, either online or they may also be reserved by calling or emailing the museum.

BRANTFORD SANTA CLAUS PARADE TODAY

The City of Brantford is pleased to announce the return of the Santa Claus Parade with presenting corporate sponsor, GrandBridge Energy on Saturday, November 26, 2022.

Learn more at www.brantford.ca/santaclausparade The parade will make its way downtown on Dalhousie Street at 6:00 p.m. starting at Stanley Street and ending at Harmony Square where the annual Parade After Party will begin. The public is encouraged to line the streets early to save a spot for optimal viewing. The Brantford Food Bank will be walking the parade route collecting non perishable food items and monetary donations. Watch for volunteers pushing shopping carts. For your safety, please do not go into the street with your donation. Stay seated at the side of the route and they will come to you for collection. Visit www.brantfordfoodbank.com to learn about our most needed items and other programs

FAMILY MOVE NIGHT Sojourn Church, Paris, December 10th at 6pm. We are celebrating Christmas with the neighbours! Join us for this free Family Movie Night. Popcorn and drinks provided!

KIWANIS CLUB CHRISTMAS PARTY

December 13th , at 6:30 PM. The members of the Kiwanis Club of Paris Brant will hold their annual Christmas party and auction at the Paris Legion #29. The event will be catered by the Legion and Cheesecake on the Go Friends and guests are invited to join in the fun! If you wish to attend, write to kiwanisparisbrant@gmail.com to order your meal

WINTER SOLSTICE COMMUNITY

GATHERING December 21 at 4pm to 6:30 pm at Five Oaks. Join us for our Winter Solstice Community Gathering and this significant moment in our hemisphere! We invite you to join us for this fun, inter cultural family friendly event. Design our own mason jar lantern and go on a lantern walk. Listen to indigenous teachings and stories from the warmth and light of the campfire; offering prayers and wishes for the new year. And the best part? No need to make supper! Warm up with a tasty bowl of chili or mac and cheese! https://fiveoaks.venue360.me/public/events/ho mepage?&org=ALL&eventPlan=ALL&season =ALL&groupBySeason=false&event=162&fb clid=IwAR13SpqadleH-p1c61M1WHQqbLpfo76UkoEZP2hd24O__ss mAbbxEDZ2Fg

BROWNDALE FARMS VENDOR’S MARKET

TODAY! November 26 from 11 am to 4 pm at 740 Dumfries Road, Paris. Come visit the market and check out some truly delicious and beautiful work from local artisans and makers.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

SKATE WITH SANTA

Sponsored by the Burford Optimist Club on December 11th from 1 pm to 2 pm at the Burford arena. Join us for a FREE event Skate with Santa including public skate, visit with Santa & treats from his elves! Regular public skating rules apply.

10TH

ANNUAL HORSE DRAWN TROLLEY RIDE & VISITS WITH

SANTA Sunday, December 18th at the Scotland Community Church from 5 pm to 8 pm. A"Free" Community Event for all. Come join the festivities, enjoy a hot chocolate, cookies, a horse drawn trolley ride and of course, a visit with Santa! Bring your cameras!

COMING SOON...

This year we will be providing an "online" reservation link to book your Trolley Ride. Sponsors are also being procured to help with expenses. Stay tuned for these local business names!

Big shout out to “Best Weigh Scales” stepping up to cover the Trolley expenses!

The Scotland Optimist Club is proud to organize this FREE COMMUNITY EVENT and all we ask is that you bring a non perishable food item to share for those in need. Please feel free to contact any Scotland Optimist member for more information

County looks to formally introduce new council

By Casandra Turnbull

If you’re unsure who represents your ward, or perhaps you just want to know more about the elected officials in Brant, stay tuned, literally, to the County’s YouTube channel for a preview coming soon!

Melissa Connor, Director of Communications and Public Relations recommended council approve the creation of an introductory video that showcases the newly elected County of Brant Council. The idea behind the project is to build a positive relationship between council members and the community, a strategic plan priority set out by County staff. Council voted in favour of the idea on Tuesday. The videos will provide members of Council an opportunity to introduce themselves to the community, and the community an opportunity to learn more about their elected officials. County staff will take the opportunity to work with each individual member of Council to create a short introductory video that will be showcased on various County of Brant channels. Each councillor will be asked the same five questions:

1 Introduce yourself and tell us briefly about yourself

2.What ward do you represent?

3. What are you passionate about in terms of the County of Brant?

4. In your four year term, what is the one thing you hope to accomplish?

5 Tell us one fun fact about yourself

Each video will be similar, to provide equal representation of each member of Council Council members will have the opportunity to review and approve their individual video before it’s released to the public. Videos will be showcased on the County’s website https://www.brant.ca/en/index.aspx, the County’s social media platforms @BrantCommunity and the County’s YouTube channel. Staff aim to complete individual Council member webpages before the end of 2022 which will include a professional headshot, short biography, contact information, ward information and the introductory video

Muslim Community Centre opening on Spruce Street

the Muslim Community on November 18th as they attended an open house at 26 Spruce Street, the future home of a Muslim faith based community centre. Howes reported the group has some great plans to pump some life back into the old building in the junction part of Paris “We learned a lot from conversations with their leadership team and from Professor Imam Syed B Soharwardy who was vising from Alberta,” said Howes “I look forward to keeping in touch with their local representatives including Muhammad Umair. We will be happy to share more of their plans as their project evolves ”

Mayor David Bailey and Ward 2 Paris Councillors Steve Howes and Lukas Oakley were welcomed by

JINGLE BELL MARKET

Even Princesses have to shop for Christmas presents, just ask the ladies from The Glass Slipper Company in Paris! The downtown was bustling with shoppers last weekend to officially kick start the holiday season. The lucky winner of the $500 gift card to shop downtown Paris went by random draw to Sandra Shaw, congratulations!

It was all fun and games, a little bit of shopping at last weekend’s Jingle Bell weekend, downtown Paris!

CORRECTION

In last week’s Paris Independent we shared the news of Renia Pruchnicki’s one-year anniversary open house for her business, Loving Hypnosis. It was mentioned that she would have another open house on December 5 from 2 5 pm, which is incorrect. We apologize for the error. If you’d like to learn more about hypnosis, which helps with stress management, weight loss, smoking cessation, sports performance and more, visit Renia’s website at www.lovinghypnosis.com

Photos by Michelle Malvaso

HOHOHO, Santa’s just a week away!

Traditional Santa Claus Parade takes place next Saturday

By Casandra Turnbull

In case your calendar isn’t already marked, don’t forget to add the Paris Santa Claus parade to Saturday, December 3rd! It’s just a week away from Santa’s visit to Paris, and the local volunteer firefighters are busy behind the scenes finalizing last minute details and preparations as they host the parade for the first time.

This year the floats will wind around the streets in the North end of Paris, as opposed to downtown, so be sure to get there before the 6 pm start time to secure your viewing area. Residents along the marked route

are being asked to park their vehicles in their driveways, if possible, to allow more space for the floats to maneuver and for spectators to watch safely.

The Paris Firefighter’s Club has confirmed there are between 30 35 floats registered this year and they hope to top it off at 40 before next weekend

The parade will start at the Canadian Tire Plaza parking lot at 6pm and end at the Paris Fairgrounds. Santa has confirmed his attendance so make sure you watch until the end to get your glimpse of the Jolly Old Fella. Volunteers will be collecting non perishable food items and

children's toys for the Paris Community Christmas Hampers program, so be sure to bring your donation!

The Paris Volunteer Firefighters and their families will be walking the route along side the fire trucks with boots collecting money, which is used for projects around the community through the Paris Firefighters Club.

Last minute inquiries about the parade can be made by email to parischristmasparade@outlook.c

om

This year’s parade route, pictured left, will take place in the town’s north end. It’s a kilometre longer than previous years, allowing for more floats and more spectator space.

Business owner gives back to community – invites public to join him for ‘JEM Santa Claus Fundraiser’

By Casandra Turnbull

A local business owner is looking to give back to the community by hosting a Christmas Open House and collecting donations for the Paris Community Christmas Hamper Program.

Jacob Palko, owner of JEM Machine Maintenance in Paris, is welcoming the public to his home at 381 King Edward Street to enjoy the Christmas decorations, sip some hot chocolate and take some pictures with Santa Claus! Palko is hoping to piggyback off what will be successful Santa Claus parade, by offering his event the following day on December 4th from 1 6 pm.

“I decided to host the JEM Meet Santa Fundraiser to give back to the community that has given so much to me,” explained Palko. “Without the support from the town, my business and myself would not be where I am today. I consider myself lucky everyday that I get to wake up and go to work doing my favourite thing in the world and I would not be able to do that without all of you Paris!” Palko owns and operates JEM Machine Maintenance at 416 King Edward Street He offers repairs and maintenance on small engines, right now with a primary focus on snowblowers and generators in preparation for winter He also sells snowblowers, lawnmowers, chains and basically anything to cover your small engine needs

He moved to Paris in 2018 and started the business in May 2021 A year later he was proud to say his business google rating was #1 in Brant County. “My favourite part of owning my own business is all the people I’ve been fortunate enough to meet.” So, to express his gratitude, and perhaps because of his sheer love for Christmas, Palko decided to give back this holiday season. Santa will be on site from 1 pm to until it gets dark to take photos with attendees The hot chocolate and admission is free all Palko asks is that you bring a non perishable food donation for the Paris Community Christmas

Hamper program. Cheryl Brownell will be on site to take photographs She will collect emails and send the pictures to people following the event.

“We are very excited to see everyone there, I’m hopeful that there will be a great turnout and that we will be able to have this event for years to come,” said Palko, adding, “I love Christmas. I greatly enjoy spending time with friends and family. It’s the time of year that truly brings everyone together and I couldn’t ask for more!”

If you have any questions about the event, you can reach out to Jacob at admin@JEMfixes.com or 226 567 5102

Jacob Palko, owner of JEM Machine Maintenance, is offering a public open house on December 4th from 1 4pm at 381 King Edward Street. Come take your picture with Santa, enjoy the decorations, free hot chocolate and help raise food donations for the Paris Community Christmas Hamper program.

How to help families in your community this holiday season

The Christmas season is in full swing. While you’re busy hanging the garland and putting up that Christmas tree, there are individuals in your community who are feeling the financial pinch and the holiday season just isn’t ringing the same merry bells for them. If you’d like to donate to a cause that directly impacts a family, child or senior in your community, check out some of these locally driven fundraisers.

PARIS COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS HAMPER PROGRAM

It’s all hands on deck with this program they don’t call it a community program for nothing. It started over 30 years ago in resident Marg Knill Wilson’s basement. It has grown considerably over the decades and long time organizer Shirley Simons still marvels at the success of the program.

The popular program is a community wide initiative with businesses, service clubs, sports organizations, schools and residents working hand in hand to make it successful. In 2020 the program distributed 165 hampers and 140 hampers in 2021

Non perishable items and NEW TOYS may be dropped off at the Paris LCBO, County office, CIBC and the Cowan Community Health Hub

The Paris Firefighters will collect new toy donations at Canadian Tire on November 24-26th and during the Paris Santa Claus parade. The County of Brant OPP will also bring back their ‘Fill a Vehicle campaign by accepting food donations on December 3rd and 4th and December 10th and 11th at both grocery store locations in Paris.

A hamper full of all the fixings for a Christmas meal and toys for the children in the family will be distributed to families that made an application on Friday, December 16th .

COMMUNITY DONATIONS

GWEN’S CHRISTMAS MAGIC

Each year Paris resident Dawn Sangster sets out to raise money in support of Gwen’s Christmas Magic for Seniors, in loving memory of her mother Gwen Ludwig The campaign raises enough funds to surprise every long term care resident at St. Joseph’s Lifecare with a Christmas gift bag. Sangster’s mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and was admitted to St. Joseph’s in Brantford.

“She (Gwen) would give to the Christmas Hampers each year and taught us how it is more important to give than to receive, so I thought what better way to keep her memory alive than by making people happy,” Sangster explained of how the idea developed

When St. Joseph’s is at full capacity it takes 205 gift bags to ensure everyone is included. The bags are filled with an ornament, a Norman Rockwell calendar, a nice body wash (a recommended item by staff at St. Joseph’s), a toothbrush, toothpaste, warm socks, a stuffy that looks like a real pet, a blanket,

ADOPTA GRANDPARENT

Susan Ritchie’s family started this program in 2013 and with the kind and ever expanding generosity of this community, they have sent out gifts to most of the local nursing homes and low income seniors apartments in Paris. A donation of $30 covers the expense of one gift and 100% of those funds go into the gift, covering the items wrapping paper and a card. Every year they try to do something different and try to find things that are useful and festive. Susan reports that recently they started getting wish lists sent to them so she shares those with volunteers so they can help Susan and her family with the shopping!

lip balm, handmade cards, all packaged in a gift bag decorated by students in Brant County schools To help keep costs down, Sangster buys in bulk, which has helped establish some great relationships with businesses and people in the surrounding community

To learn more follow the social media page or you can donate by e-transfer to gwensxmasmagic@gmail.com

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 in 2021.

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.

The Sangster family and friends during last year’s donation drop off at St. Joseph’s Lifecare in Brantford.

COMMUNITY DONATIONS

“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. To donate or reach out contact Susan Ritchie at sritchie990@gmail.com or visit the Adopt a Grandparent Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/1786864768221319

To the left, the Christmas tree at Telfer Place was full of surprises as delighted residents woke up to witness a Christmas miracle, thanks to the donations supplied through Paris resident Susan Ritchie’s Adopt a Grandparent program.

THE GURNEY CHRISTMAS MCMASTER COLLECTION

In 2015 when Hudson was born with severe Meconium aspiration syndrome, which affected his lungs’ability to function for him, he did not breathe for the first 13 minutes of his life and spent weeks at McMaster Hospital as staff tried to reverse any brain damage and fix his tiny lungs. It was during this time at McMaster Hospital that his parents Sarah and James saw and experienced first hand the amazing staff at work and sheer resilience within the walls of that hospital.

“We took many walks to take a break and encountered so many little children and teens You don’t expect to look at a four year old child fighting the biggest fight of their life and they are the one who smiles up at you and asks you how you are doing,” explained Sarah. “We just couldn’t believe the strength, determination, the smiles and the laughter we encountered,” she added.

In 2016, during the first McMaster donation drive, the Gurneys raised $300 worth of toys. They expanded the following year by asking local companies for donations, including James’ employer Priority Mechanical who rose to the occasion By 2018 donations were exceeding the $5,000 range.

Pictured is one year’s worth of donations to the McMaster Children’s Hospital

If you’d like to donate, the Gurneys take the annual collection to McMaster Hospital the first week of December. You can reach Sarah by email at gurneyhelpmackids@gmail.com

McMaster Children’s Hospital Life Team Specialists welcome all kinds of donations from toys, crafts, books and games to personal hygiene sets, cozy clothing and even monetary donations or gift card donations. They can accept only new items (unwrapped) and they must be nontoxic For storage reasons, they ask that donation items are no larger than the size of a standard pillowcase. For infection control reasons, they cannot accept fabric items such as stuffed animals, throw blankets and pillows.

COMMUNITY DONATIONS

NOVAVITA’S HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

The Nova Vita holiday campaign raises money to help ensure families staying at the Brantford based shelter have the best possible holiday season, despite going through some of the most difficult times in their lives.

Anne Ruddell, community development manager at Nova Vita, describes the campaign as an allencompassing 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.

Gift card donations, ranging in value from $25, $50 to $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

Gift cards can be purchased from local stores Toys R Us, Giant Tiger, Indigo, Best Buy, local grocery stores or Visa/Mastercard

If you’d like to make a donation or support a family download the community support opportunities form online or email jpowless@novavita org

Paris man appointed interim Chief Administrative Officer

MEDIA

RELEASE -The County of Brant is pleased to announce that Darryl Lee will be appointed as the Interim Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) starting Monday, November 28, 2022.

Darryl Lee, a resident of Paris, Ontario, has 33 years in public service and an impressive background in municipal government holding managerial positions at the City of Hamilton and ultimately the Chief Administrative Officer position at the City of Brantford. His colleagues at the City of Brantford noted he is well known for his good nature, calm disposition, and excellent leadership skills. “We are thrilled to welcome

Darryl to the County of Brant team,” said Mayor David Bailey “We are thankful he will serve during the interim period as the recruitment for a permanent Chief Administrative Officer commences.”

Reporting to County Council, the Chief Administrative Officer is the County’s senior executive manager, overseeing all departments

“I am so pleased Mr. Lee has accepted the position of Interim CAO and I will be here to support him over the coming weeks as he settles into this role,” noted Michael Bradley, outgoing Chief Administrative Officer “The County is in very good hands.”

Although Darryl Lee begins his

role on Monday November 28, 2022, Council will officially appoint him at the following Council meeting on Tuesday, November 29, 2022.

Ian Bell performs hometown concert

Local musician Ian Bell entertained a couple hundred residents on November 18th as part of a fundraiser for the Brant Community Healthcare System Foundation. Bell performed at the #forParisCentre (Presbyterian Church) during an evening presented by the Women Inspiring Women Women’s Institute (WIW WI). Ian Bell is an entertaining Ontario folk singer, song writer, instrumentalist and storyteller. During an interview with The Paris Independent leading up to the concert, Bell said while he’s played all over Southern Ontario post pandemic, he has not performed in his hometown recently, so the fundraiser presented an excellent opportunity for him to perform locally for a cause he was proud to support. “This was a perfect opportunity to help give a little something back to the people who work so hard to make our lives better every day,” he said. WIW WI President Elaine Tully said the final figures from the night aren’t tallied yet, so stay tuned for a future update!

Darryl Lee, Interim Chief Administrative Officer for the County of Brant

Former Parisian wins distinguished Writers’ Trust Atwood Gibson Fiction Prize for debut novel, Some Hellish

By Casandra Turnbull

A former Paris resident and writer is the 2022 Writers’ Trust Atwood Gibson Fiction Prize recipient. Nicholas Herring, who grew up in Paris and even worked at Green Heron Books while in school, accepted the prestigious award in October for his debut novel, Some Hellish. “Nicholas was very informed about books and authors. As our first employee, he was a real asset to the store and was writing constantly, even then,” shared Roy Skuce, owner of Green Heron Books. “Nicholas draws you totally into the internal and external world of Herring and his fisherman’s life on PEI, a world that was totally new to me His characters, dialogue and setting are always right true. I couldn’t put the book down,” reviewed Skuce.

Some Hellish, published by Goose Lane Editions, follows Herring as a hapless lobster fisherman lost in an unexceptional life, bored of thinking the same old thoughts. One December day, following a hunch, he cuts a hole in the living room floor and installs a hoist, altering the course of everything in his life Separation from his wife and children, an automobile accident with a close friend, being lost at sea these are but few remarkable events that force Herring

to confront the things he fears the most: love, friendship, belief and himself.

Nicholas is a former Paris resident who grew up in town, went to Paris Central School and PDHS before eventually moving to the East Coast where he currently lives in Prince Edward Island. He graduated from St. Jerome’s University with an honours degree in English Literature and attended the University of Toronto where he completed an MA in creative writing.

The Writers’ Trust Atwood Gibson Fiction Prize is named after co founders and literary couple Margaret Atwood and Graeme Gibson, who started the organization in 1976 The goal was to encourage a Canadian literary culture at home, so the

prize recognizes writers of exceptional talent for the best novel or short story collection of the year, according to the Writers’Trust website.

The finalists are selected by a three member, independent judging panel and this year Nicholas was named the award winner He also took home the $60,000 prize lot, which is generously funded by Canadian businessman and philanthropist Jim Balsillie.

Receiving this distinguished honour was no surprise to his friends Lindsey and Richard Mueller.

“We were not surprised at all. He went to school for creative writing and has been developing a story for a while. Winning the award was exciting as the novel had just been released and everything happened very quickly. He has worked hard and deserves this success,” shared Lindsey.

The Muellers, who live in Paris, are currently reading their friend’s novel, so they couldn’t provide a review just yet, but they are proud of their long-time friend.

To learn more about Nicholas’ novel visit https://gooselane.com/products /some hellish

LOCAL HISTORY

Santa Claus Parade Ghosts of Christmas Past

Paris Parade December 12, 1953

Since my parents moved us from Burford to Paris in 1984, I wouldn’t have noticed a Paris without a Santa Claus Parade as it was back in full swing in 1985 and continued every year since. Little did I know that 1985 was the first Santa Clause parade in Paris since 1965. The earliest indication I have been able to find of Christmas in Paris comes from a newspaper article written in December 1929 in which the town was celebrating it’s second annual town Christmas Tree in the town square (cenotaph) and Santa Clause would be visiting the tree to hand out gifts followed by a free matinee of movie reels at the Capital Theatre next door. Year after year Santa would be “paraded” downtown in everything from a bright red sleigh to a motorcar, arriving from the far away North Pole at the train station or even arriving by helicopter in the 1960s! He was always accompanied by popular fairytale and nursery rhyme characters This annual event became sponsored by the Penman’s Entertainment and Recreation Association (PERA). The parades started in the morning around 10:30AM and grew larger every year. The parade would always begin at the PERA room at Penman’s #2 mill in

“the Flats” on Willow Street and come over the William St. bridge and make a loop around downtown via William St. to Broadway St. to Mechanic St. to Grand River St. to Emily St. to Broadway St. and back to Mechanic St. eventually landing at the Theatre where Santa would personally greet over five hundred children as they packed into the theatre and each child would receive a bag with rock candy, an orange and a candy cane to take home as they left the theatre. While the children enjoyed an afternoon full of cartoons, serials and a feature movie. Parents would enjoy the afternoon shopping. Santa would leave the packed theatre

to go to the community hall and visit all the pre school children and then he would visit any sick children in town at the Willet or at home. It is reported that 1,200 to 1,300 bags of candy would be handed out annually. After the Capitol Theatre had closed circa 1957 Santa began a new tradition of arriving by helicopter and heading over to “Christmas Island” (AKA Kings Ward Park). This continued until 1965 when Penman’s stopped their sponsorship and the parade was no more. Christmas in Paris would never be the same until 1985 when organizer Dale Maidens decided it was time.

LOCAL HISTORY

1985 Santa Claus parade attracts 2,500

These mobile Christmas presents were part of the Paris Santa Claus Parade, the first held in 20 years Newspaper clippings December 2, 1985

Tournament win gives U15 Local League Team 2 a ticket to provincial finals

The Paris Wolfpack U15 local league 2 Team travelled to Aylmer, Ontario this past weekend to compete in the Regional Silver Stick tournament against some of the best local league teams in the area. The team started slow, losing their first game against Belmont but took the next two games against Tavistock and Tillsonburg Team 2 in the round robin, setting up their Semi Final match against the undefeated Dorchester Dragons.

Dorchester’s goalie put on a show all weekend allowing just one goal throughout the round robin and was almost unbeatable against Paris until the dominant defensive giant Mason Munro got the puck to Elliot Schiedel who stepped up from the blue line and wired the puck into the back of the net giving Paris the 1 0 lead. Dorchester didn’t take long however, to bounce back and put one past the untouchable Paris net minder Aiden Hutchinson and force overtime. The Paris fans packed into the arena and went wild when Schiedel stepped up again and lit the lamp in OT to give Paris a very hard fought win to put them into the finals

The finals saw Paris line up

Congratulations to the U15 LL2 team for winning the Regional Silver Stick Tournament last weekend in Aylmer!

against Tillsonburg Team #1 who beat the super strong Belmont Rangers in a shootout in their semi final match. The two Southern Counties rivals were barely rested but ready for battle and did not let the hundreds of fans down!

Dylan Drinkle and Logan Harrison shared responsibilities on defense in the first period holding Tillsonburg off the scoresheet. Sibling forwards Landon Barendrecht and Claire Gauvin pressured the Tornado forwards every time they touched the puck while linemates Jacob Bourges and Nate Reain were dominant in keeping the puck in the Tillsonburg end of the ice. Jaxson Conick seemed to enjoy the role of pest and didn’t give the Tillsonburg players more than a quick moment before the pressure was on them!

After Ethan Lange helped get Paris to a three goal lead, Tillsonburg showed that they do not know the meaning of quit and put the Wolfpack on their heels with three quick goals to tie the game up and once again, force the Pack into overtime.

In the extra frame, it was a faceoff win by Evan Grahlman that set the stage for a historic moment when he passed the puck to Taylor Drinkle who moved the puck perfectly across the blueline to Schiedel. With the Tillsonburg goalie perfectly screened by Grahlman and Scott Harrison, Schiedel fired the puck over the goalie’s shoulder giving Paris the victory!

Two OT wins in one day was one for the record books! Coach Drew said after the Championship that he “Couldn’t be prouder of this group. These young adults showed amazing resilience and the coaches and I are so proud to be part of something so exciting.”

The Championship victory means the Paris team, sponsored by Burford Foodland, will move on to the Provincial Finals in Pelham in January. Congratulations and Good Luck Wolfpack!

U9 hockey players exhibit Respect, Attitude, Commitment and Effort

The U9 Wolfpack team had two losses recently but that didn’t stop them from recognizing players who displayed the best R.A.C.E (respect, attitude, commitment and effort) throughout the game. On November 13th against Ingersoll, Kaiden Martin earned the title for his team effort. He started on defense then after a couple players went down with injuries in the game, Kaiden moved to a forward position and scored one goal and assisted on another Kaiden played an overall great game During the November 19th game against Tillsonburg, Jacob Speagle earned the player of the game for his incredible defensive effort. He was very strong when clearing the puck off the boards and protecting his goalie. Jacob also blocked a shot early in the game.

Submitted photos

Double Trouble at the rink!

This past week the Paris Curling Club tried something a little different at the club and held its first doubles curling night of the season. Doubles curling is made up of 2 person teams (as opposed to the regular 4), and each team uses 6 rocks. There are a couple of different rules involved, and it puts a much larger emphasis on the finesse side of the sport, rather than the big hits that you might see in a normal game. A total of eight teams went out and tried their hand at this relatively new version of the game and reportedly everyone had a good time

Also, for the 2nd time in less than a month, members recorded another 6 Ender (a perfect end where you score points with all your rocks) in a doubles game! This one came from the team of Dan Tully & Jordan Ashton Congrats gentlemen!

Photo credit: Paris Curling Club

*U13 Team 1 Arora Dental wins 2 1 to Delhi Rockets

*U15 Rep sponsored by Comfort Plus Climate Care wins 7 2 over Twin Centre Stars

*U13 Rep sponsored by Paris Optimist Club loses 4 1 over Ayr Flames

*U11 Team 1 sponsored by Brant Sports wins 2 0 over Burford Coyotes

*U11 Team 2 sponsored by Nick’s No Frills ties 3 3 over the Delhi Rockets (2)

*U15 Team 1 Adkins Financial wins 3 0 over the Tillsonburg Tornadoes

*U13 Team 1 Arora Dental loses 6 2 against Delhi Rockets (1)

*U13 Team 2 sponsored by Fifth Ground Entertainment ties 1 1 against Simcoe Warriors

*U15 Team 1 sponsored by Adkins Financial ties 2 2 against Delhi Rockets (2)

*U15 Team 3 Paris Canadian Tire wins 9 0 over Ingersoll Express

*U18 Team 3 sponsored Branch 29 Legion wins 3 1 over Paris U18 Team 2 sponsored by Hoogs Installations

*U15 Team 1 sponsored by Adkins Financial wins 5 3 over Paris U15 Team 2 sponsored by Burford Foodland

*U18 Team 2 Hoogs Installations Legion wins 6 1 over Norwich Knights

*U13 Team 1 sponsored by Arora Dental loses 4 2 to the Tillsonburg Tornadoes

*U11 Team 2 sponsored by Nicks No Frills wins 6 2 over the Port Dover Pirates (2)

*U15 Team 3 sponsored by Canadian Tire Paris loses 6 1 to the Simcoe Warriors

*U11 Rep Pelton Transport Rep team wins 6 0 over Six Nations Blackhawks

*U13 Optimist Reps tie 0 0 against the Ayr Flames

*U18 Cobblestone Medicine team ties 1 1 against Tillsonburg Tornadoes

*U15 Comfort Plus Climate Care wins 5 1 over the New Hamburg Huskies

Double at Bradford Blue & Gold Tournament

Paris’ U11 Rep team, pictured top left, and the U15 Rep team, pictured top right, brought home gold medals from the Bradford Bulldogs Blue & Gold Tournament last weekend.

Wow, what an amazing showing for Paris Minor Hockey at the Bradford Blue and Gold Tournament on November 18 20th.

The U11 Pelton Transport Rep team won their second tournament in a row! The U15 Comfort Plus Climate Care Rep Team matched their efforts and brought home Gold as well U11 played four games in the Round Robin with a perfect 4 0 record They faced the Bradford Bulldogs first and won with a score of 7-0. The next day they came up against a very enthusiastic Markham Waxers team but shut them down with a score of 5 0. Their next challenger put up a tough fight but was not able to overcome the Wolfpack as they won the game 4 0. The final challenge of the Round Robin was

against a familiar New Hamburg Huskies team. This was the toughest challenge of the tournament thus far for the team, but they battled to win the game by a score of 4-2 by gaining two goals in the last minute of the game!

Paris would then face New Hamburg Huskies later in the day in the championship game The energy in the building was tense but the Wolfpack came out fighting and won the game 6 1! Special shout out to the amazing goaltending skills of Gavin Johnson with only two goals against the entire tournament for 91% goals against average. We can't wait to see where this team of tough and talented players can go this year!

U15 faced a very talented pool of teams and had three games to play

in the Round Robin They started out facing the Garden City Falcons in a back to back battle but came out on top 2 1 The next team would challenge the Wolfpack and they ended in a tie against the Haldimand River Kings with a final score of 4 4. They faced a very tough Windsor Jr Spitfires in their final round robin game yet pulled out a win 3 1 They moved into the semi finals to take on the Haldimand River Kings once again This time the Wolfpack was ready and proved they deserved a spot in the finals as they took the game 4 0

The final game had them face their first competitor of the tournament once again so they knew it would be a tough battle

The score held 0-0 for the first period against the Garden City Falcons. Paris struck first to take the lead 1 0 but the Falcons would not go down without a fight and tied the game 1 1. It was a back-and-forth battle until Paris found their winning spirit in the last minutes of the final period and took the game with a 4 1 win. MVPs for this team were: Jerry Skoyles (Goalie), Nathan Wylie (Centre), Cooper Robinson (Defence), Jackson Birley (Defence) and Ashton Hall (Forward) The Tournament MVP went to the incredible goaltender Jerry Skoyles with 75% goals against average. Top Points for the tournament was Nathan Wylie with an incredible 10 point showing. Way to go Wolfpack! They will compete in the Art Coombs Memorial Rep Tournament in Paris on December 2 4th wish them luck!

U8 Wolfpack Team 1 collects big win over Burford Coyotes Blue Team

By Casandra Turnbull

The temperature outside was frigid but inside the Burford rink the U8 Wolfpack Team 1’s offense was red hot!

The team was on the road again for a game last Saturday morning against the Blue Coyote team. With nearly a full bench of players this time around, the team came ready to play.

The first Paris goal was a team effort with Jack Ferren and Luci Corbett working together to pass the puck to Lincoln Pynenburg and he fired it off to Ben Turnbull who quickly disposed of it into the Burford net. Minutes later Burford tied the game, but that would be all Burford would score for the remainder of the game.

Nathan Blake & Sebastain Britton played a strong defensive game protecting Brennan Deane in net Most of Burford’s attempts were turned away by Blake and Britton as the duo worked together to clear the puck up ice to their offensive teammates.

Emerson Kneale fired off a few slap shots that went just wide of the Burford net Ferren and Parker Sevigny also had a few

nice shots that were stopped by Burford’s goalie.

Kneale set Sevigny up for his first goal of the game to give Paris the 2-1 lead.

Lincoln and Turnbull were a dynamite pair with Lincoln setting Turnbull up for his second of the game. Not to be outdone, Corbett gained control of the puck a minute later, but two back to back attempts on net were stopped

With only two minutes left in the first, Sevigny found his second goal of the game to give Paris a nice 4 1 lead.

The Wolfpack jumped right back into the action in the second period with Turnbull earning his third goal for his first hattrick of the year. It was Corbett up next as she took a backhanded pass from Pynenburg and skated the puck up ice, around the net and tucked it in for her first of the game

Sevigny scored Paris’ next two goals to also earn a hattrick, while Turnbull rounded out Paris’ offense and the defense worked together for the win. Great teamwork everyone!

PDHS Sr. Boys volleyball team at CWOSSA

semi finals During the Athletic Association of Brant, Haldimand & Norfolk Counties, Paris beat McKinnon Park in the quarter finals, and Assumption College in the semi finals but lost to St. John’s College in the Finals.

The Paris Panthers Senior Volleyball team advanced to CWOSSA this week where they beat Centre Dufferin and John Diefenbaker in their first two games, but lost a close match to St. Mary’s in the

Photo credit Tina Graziano

Connect with angels at The Lotus Flower Boutique

Ashley Tavares Peer @thedeafmedium is an intuitive medium who operates out of The Lotus Flower Boutique located on Highway 2 in Princeton. Never having experienced a reading before, I went in with no expectations. Before getting started, she explained a bit about her process. In a safe space surrounded by crystals and candles, the reading begins While she doesn’t use Tarot Cards, she makes use of Butterfly Oracle Cards and Angel Cards to help deliver messages. When booking readings, all she asks from her clients are their first names In preparation for each session, Tavares Peer allows her guides to open the space for her client’s angels to approach her and take her on journeys.

that what they came looking for isn’t always what they get out of their session. Connections with unexpected guides are not uncommon, leaving clients surprised and fulfilled, knowing they are being looked after even by those they didn’t expect. A feeling of unity with those who’ve passed, feeling them still present and guiding them. And while some messages can be left open to interpretation, Tavares Peer shares that many clients will contact her later on amazed by sudden realizations of what those messages meant.

By Carolina Saenz

The gift to connect with spirits of those who’ve passed, to share special messages and help bridge communication between the living and the dead can be achieved through intuitive mediums It is an experience that not everyone is open to, many being completely skeptic. However, those open to this experience can receive guidance and peace by reconnecting with their angels. In the name of journalism, I decided to give this experience a try to share with you. Just a short ten minute drive from Paris,

“I’m your passenger, take me where you need them to go,” she says.

These journeys can happen through dreams and unexpectedly throughout the day. Sometimes showing her a specific image or item, other times manifesting into scents. She is guided through places, memories, and emotions. But how specifically accurate can these messages be? You will be surprised! Tavares Peer explains that many of her clients come to her looking for guidance, especially when going through changes in life Most will find

Crystal bracelets Submitted photo

As for my personal experience, I am still processing it. Not knowing anything about me, other than my name, Tavares Peer was amazingly accurate from the beginning She began by describing a journey with specific details of places I’ve been, all from the perspective of my angel, uncovering a story so personal it was impossible not to believe. The messages given were not what I wanted to hear but more so what I needed to hear, to help reconcile profound sadness and grief with peace and hope for the future A future that can still be shared with loved ones who’ve passed by honouring and remembering them It was a healing experience that left me feeling certain that we don’t walk alone, those we love are always with us. Through this experience I was able to understand why intuitive mediums are being recognized as the new wellness coaches and have a deep level of gratitude for those willing to share their gift

If you’d like to reconnect with your angels, contact @thedeafmedium via Instagram to book your reading session ($95), or to gift this experience gift cards are also available. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to browse The Lotus Flower Boutique and everything they have to offer.

From DoTerra essential oil products, to clothing, candles, pottery, crystals, manifesting ornaments, and much more, let your Christmas shopping support local vendors. And in the new year, look forward to upcoming Reiki sessions, also available at The Lotus Flower Boutique.

Ashley’s reading session set up (with the cards) Submitted photo

A little bit of healthy planning now will give you the jump start you need towards that New Year’s resolution

for the Health of It

Don't wait until January!

This is the time of the year when you will hear people say they are going to START XYZ in January again, such as I'm going to start back to the gym in January or I'm going to go on a diet in January. This is a very busy time of the year with Christmas approaching, but the last thing you should do is put everything off until the new year. Did you know that one workout a week is still beneficial to you?

Did you know that one good meal a day is still good for your health?

It is a very stressful time of the year with Christmas shopping, wrapping presents, party planning, decorating BUT guess what? Eating well MOST of the time and getting at least ONE workout in a week is actually going to help you combat stress.

Eating well and exercising will give you the energy and mindset you need to get through this season! Also, If you let your nutrition and workouts all slide this month on top of happy hour Christmas get togethers, overnight Christmas parties, extra stuffing at Christmas dinner and leftover pumpkin pie for breakfast, you may wake up January 1 wishing you had just done a little bit more. You will be so much further away from your goals then you would have been if you’d just put in a little bit of December effort!

So, I recommend this month, to definitely cut yourself some slack but to do a little bit

A little bit of your regular workouts

every week and a little bit of your regular healthy eating every day and these little bits will add up to you not being so far away from your goals and routine in January that you won't know where to start.

You can do it Your January self, who is right around the corner, is going to thank you for all of those little bits!

Coach Shell is the proud owner of GFS and is committed to helping you discover your HEALTHY lifestyle. Reach out at any time to learn more about our programs and services by sending an email to gaudetfitnesssolutions@gmail.c om

Just

With Coach Shelley Gaudet

Are you hoping to fit into that cocktail dress for an up coming holiday party?

Or do you want to survive the holidays without gaining those unnecessary pounds? Let Fitness Coach Shelley Gaudet guide you to a healthier version of yourself!

Staff Reunion in celebration of the Willett’s 100th anniversary

The Willett Hospital celebrated its 100th anniversary this past summer In honouor of that historic year, people gathered for a Willett Staff Reunion on October 29th at the Paris Fairgrounds.

As guests entered the hall, they were greeted by a spectacular print of the Willett Hospital in 1925, printed by Thompson Printing of Paris. Many people marvelled at the sight of picture boards, each sharing stories of days past, within the walls of the Willett, where many friendships were born One special poster board remembered past staff who’ve passed away.

Dora Kuilboer, who attended the event, shared these memories of the special evening.

Mayor David Bailey opened the reunion with a few words as he also reminisced about his school days, which he attended with one of the reunion’s organizers, Wendy Baer (and Diane).

Kuilboer said guests arrived from near and far some further than others. Ross and Betty Randall came from Lebanon, Tennessee. “Betty was a nurse at the Willett Hospital for many years and still keeps in touch with Judy Gilchrist,” shared Kuilboer, who mentioned she was

also pleased to see Nancy Anderson from Burkes Falls, Dr Tim & Sue Hutton, Dr. Henry & Haidee Vlaar and Dr. Dave & Chris Cameron.

Strodes catered the main course of the event. As for dessert, the cakes, one decorated with the Willett Hospital emblem and one decorated with that 1925 picture

It was an evening full of reminiscing as former staff of the Willett celebrated the facility’s 100th anniversary. Pictured on the far right is Dora Kuilboer who shared some memories of the evening.

of the hospital, were designed and baked by Jessica Baer Dan Shante, events by Flashpoint, provided the music and Ross and Jayne Miller attended the bar.

With content shared by Dora Kuilboer

Trifecta of illnesses putting pressure on local healthcare facilities

As the Brant Community Healthcare System facilities continue to be inundated with sick residents, they’re sharing an excellent online source that can help you determine if you should visit the BGH or Willett or if you can manage the symptoms from home.

“As we continue to navigate the severe pressures on our Emergency Department, we are also experiencing dramatic increases in the number of paediatric patients in need of care,” according to a social media post this week.

Healthcare professionals are reporting a trifecta of illnesses that are filling up waiting rooms across the province people suffering from influenza, Covid and RSV that later primarily affecting infants and children.

In an effort to alleviate the intense demands on the BGH emergency department during cold and flu season, please consider watching the educational materials on how to best manage and monitor a child’s condition at home before visiting the ED.

If you have any doubts, call 9-1-1. The Emergency Department is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please visit www.bchsys.org/emergency for more information about the BGH Emergency Department The video sourced as part of the Translating Emergency Knowledge for Kids educational series for patients and families. To learn more visit www.trekk.ca or https://youtu.be/4g9JHVRloN4

Local A Cappella Chorus brings home Silver

Chartered in Milton, Ontario, A Cappella Showcase, a Barbershop Style A Cappella Women’s Chorus, won second place at their annual International Convention and Contest held in Verona, NY, from November 2 6, 2022.

Under the theme "Together Again", 25 choruses from Canada and the U.S. crossed the stage and performed their two contest songs before an audience and a panel of judges they hadn’t seen live for two entire years. With a rating of 83.6%, A Cappella Showcase achieved an outstanding score while maintaining its status as an A Level chorus which it had acquired in 2019 before the COVID 19 pandemic.

Unsurprisingly, the pandemic created a host of challenges for all choruses, but with the help of rehearsals conducted first on Zoom and later, in person with masks and finally, without masks, A Cappella Showcase managed to preserve its A Level status proving the dedication and passion its members have for singing

A Cappella Showcase won second place with their performance of "When I Fall In Love" by Heyman and Young and of "You’re From Heaven And You’re Mine" by David Wright. Since Mr. Wright arranged both songs, the chorus received special coaching from this talented musician and composer back in

A Cappella Chorus, chartered in Milton, but includes members from Paris, brought home silver from an international convention in New York.

September.

Photo: Read Photography, Cedar Rapids, IA

Under the umbrella organization of Harmony, Inc , and directed by Jordan Travis and his assistant, Amy Patterson, A Cappella Showcase currently has 74 singing members of which 63 sang at the contest and brought home Silver Medals. The chorus also has 6 competitive quartets who also performed at the contest and achieved remarkable scores. A Cappella Showcase is now looking forward to its annual Christmas show which will be held at Port Nelson United Church, in Burlington, on December 10th.

With singers living throughout Ontario, namely in Guelph,

Hamilton, Georgetown, Niagara, Burlington, Oakville, St. Catharines, Paris, Cambridge and other areas, A Cappella Showcase is always seeking new members to spread the joy of harmony and meets every Tuesday at 7:30 pm at the Millgrove Community Centre, in Millgrove. For more information on the chorus and to learn about becoming a member, visit www.acappellashowcase.org or email membership@acappellashowcas e org To attend their Christmas show, email tickets@acappellashowcase org

ASTROLOGY

Aries: March 21 - April 19 (Fire) -

You will be focusing on your spiritual well being It is important that you look within and see what you're really lacking in your life? You only seem to see the work that your love life and career need. Step away and pick you this week

Taurus: April 20 May 20 (Earth)

Be careful who you decide to share your secrets with You do need to open up, but your choice in the people you trust is off these days You will have a new job offered to you The job is great for your confidence. Make sure that it will pay you enough to make all the stress worthwhile.

Gemini: May 21 - June 20 (Air) -

Your love life is shining bright If you are single you will meet a new interest You are ready for a deeper commitment. You will have a lot of people guiding and helping you to make choices this week. Listen and think before you do

Cancer: June 21 July 22 (Water)

You are so bored. You will be seeking entertainment everywhere Career and love are feeling stale. Connect with long lost friends or family. Make some plans and go out This energy can cause arguments in your love life. Try not to take your frustration out on your loved ones.

Leo: July 23 - August 22 (Fire) -

Love will sweep you off your feet Be open to it. Trust that you want this and that you deserve this You will feel very loved and supported all this week You want to change things up in your career, so use this energy and do whatever you have to do to make your life better

Virgo: August 23 - September 22 (Earth) Avoid making snap decisions. You are feeling the pull to make things stable in your life Ask a lot of questions at work and at home Gather all the information you can and then at the end of the week sit down and make educated choices.

Libra: September 23 - October 22 (Air) - You need to get away so you can see what it is you need to let go of. You are struggling to stay in the energy you are in If you do not take a break then you will start to have trouble sleeping. This is just out of frustration because you feel like you should be doing something else.

Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 (Water) - People will be listening to you intently this week You have a lot of great things to say Stand up at your job and voice your great opinions Sit down with your loved one and have a much needed heart to heart By the end of the week, you will feel very much lighter.

Sagittarius: November 22 December 21 (Fire) You are very attractive this week. People will want to be around you When you can attract the right people, then the right things start to happen in every area of your life Be aware that your inner self is also craving more love and guidance

Capricorn: December 22 January 19 (Earth) - Look for inspiration. You are going to be making some big choices in your personal life The signs are there showing all the right directions I know you are more about following your head over your heart, but this week your heart knows what is best for you

Aquarius: January 20 February 18 (Air) You will get lots of unsolicited advice this week But take it all in before you react to it You say you want guidance, this is a chance for you to get it You have to find a way to build up the courage you need in order to make the changes that need to happen in your life

Pisces: February 19 - March 20 (Water) You are attracted to great power You will want to be around people you feel are successful Be careful you do not get too flirty with the wrong people If you do this will create some awkwardness for you at work You want more, so try being more.

Horoscopes

with Tina Graziano Energy Reader

Tina Graziano was born an energy reader. She uses her gifts to heal and guide others as a life coach. If you need support and insight in life, contact Tina for an energy reading directly online at https://www.facebook.com /Tina.Graziano.Energy.Read

Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford

For Saturday November 26, 2022

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Standard 2:30p.m. 6:20p.m. 10:00p.m. 3D 1:10p.m. 5:00p.m. 9:00p.m.

Strange World Standard 1:20p.m. 4:10p.m. 3D 7:00p.m. 9:40p.m.

Devotion Standard 11:30a.m. 3:00p.m. 6:15p.m. 9:30p.m.

Bones and All Standard 12:00p.m. 3:20p.m. 6:50p.m. 9:55p.m.

The Menu Standard 1:15p.m. 3:50p.m. 7:10p.m. 9:50p.m.

Black Adam Standard6:30p.m. 9:30p.m.

She Said Standard 3:30p.m. 6:40p.m. 9:45p.m.

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile Standard 12:40p.m. 4:20p.m.

A Christmas Story Standard 11:00a.m